By Ntokozo Magongo
MBABANE – Minister of Health, Mduduzi Matsebula, has disclosed that there is significant improvements in the availability of essential drugs at health institutions across Eswatini.
Speaking at the launch of the National Health Sector Strategic Plan (NHSSP) 2024-2028 at Mountain View Hotel in Mbabane on Friday, Matsebula expressed his pride in the progress made by the ministry in enhancing healthcare delivery.
“I receive a lot of positive feedback. While the general perception may be that the Ministry of Health is struggling, I want to emphasize that drug availability has improved significantly. Although we have not yet reached full capacity, the progress is undeniable. Hospitals are equipped with essential medical supplies, and infrastructure renovations are ongoing across the country to enhance service delivery. This is a major achievement, and it reflects the hard work being done,” he said.
Strategic Plan for Healthcare Development
Regarding the launch of the NHSSP 2024-2028, Matsebula emphasized that the document serves as a roadmap for the health sector under the Ministry’s leadership.
“This strategic plan should be embraced by all stakeholders involved in providing quality healthcare services to the nation. This includes development partners, the public and private sectors, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), faith-based organizations (FBOs), and community organizations, among others,” he stated.
The NHSSP 2024-2028 aligns with Eswatini’s National Development Plan (NDP) 2023-2028, which is themed “Good Governance: The Anchor for Economic Recovery, Green Growth, and Sustainable Livelihoods.” The NDP provides a foundation for the NHSSP, guiding national development efforts, including those in the health sector, as Eswatini strives to achieve its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
The Minister noted that the NHSSP is centered around the theme “Accelerating Progress Towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and Other Health-Related SDGs”, outlining the country’s strategy for achieving SDG 3, which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and well-being for all ages.
“SDG 3 aims to reduce maternal mortality, neonatal and child mortality, infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, substance abuse, and road traffic injuries. This strategic plan will help us move closer to these targets,” Matsebula added.
The launch of the NHSSP signifies a renewed commitment by the government and its partners to strengthen healthcare services, improve access to quality medical care, and enhance overall public health outcomes in Eswatini.
