BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
SITEKI – Good Shepherd Catholic Hospital has warned the public against fraudsters falsely claiming to offer employment opportunities at the hospital, as “Facata” scams continue to spread across Eswatini.
Hospital Raises Alarm
Good Shepherd Communications Officer Zwelakhe Moahloli said the hospital currently has no job vacancies and does not recruit people through unofficial messages, calls or individuals.
Speaking during an interview on May 27, 2026, Moahloli said about five people had recently come to the hospital claiming they had been contacted about supposed vacancies.
“We do not have vacancies at the moment,” said Moahloli. “When there are employment opportunities, the hospital releases official adverts through relevant media channels. We do not charge anyone money for employment opportunities.”
He said scammers were taking advantage of the country’s high unemployment rate by pretending to represent trusted organisations such as hospitals and government institutions.
Victims Asked to Pay Money
Moahloli warned the public against paying money for so-called medical tests, registration fees or processing costs linked to job applications.
One victim, who asked not to be named, said he was instructed to submit a curriculum vitae and application letter before being told to send money for a medical test.
“They told me I had qualified for the job process, but first I needed to pay for a medical examination,” the victim said.
Reports indicate that some fake recruiters demand as much as E2 000 for supposed medical check-ups or administration processes before interviews are conducted.
Millions Lost Through Facata Scams
Facata scams, a widespread form of mobile money and cyber fraud in Eswatini, continue to cause major financial losses across the country.
Recent figures show that mobile money and e-wallet scams alone accounted for more than E7 million in losses within a 12-month period. The Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) also recorded losses amounting to over E1.7 million linked to fraudulent online advertisements and fake offers.
Authorities say fraudsters often operate in organised syndicates and target vulnerable groups, including unemployed youths, elderly people and those with limited technological knowledge.
Eswatini’s unemployment crisis has also made many people vulnerable to fake recruitment schemes. The country’s unemployment rate currently stands at 33.3 percent, while youth unemployment is estimated at 54.7 percent for males and 61.8 percent for females.
Experts say scammers exploit desperation by advertising fake jobs and demanding upfront payments for interviews, registration or medical examinations.
Authorities Continue Warning Public
The Royal Eswatini Police Service, the Central Bank of Eswatini and the Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM) continue to warn the public against sharing banking PINs, passwords or personal information with unknown individuals.
Members of the public are also advised not to click suspicious links or send money to people promising jobs, grants or investment opportunities online.
Authorities encourage victims and members of the public to report suspicious activities immediately by calling 999 or 922.
Public Urged to Verify Job Advertisements
Good Shepherd Catholic Hospital has urged Emaswati to verify all job advertisements directly with institutions before making payments or sharing personal information.
Moahloli said official employment opportunities from the hospital would always be communicated through recognised and trusted media platforms.
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