BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE– Mbabane Government Hospital has officially received the newly renovated Ward 18 (Female Medical Ward), an upgrade made possible through a partnership with the private sector, including CONCO Limited, Business Eswatini, Vukani BoMake and other stakeholders.
The refurbishment, valued at E2.4 million, marks a significant boost to women’s healthcare services at the national referral hospital and reflects the growing role of private sector collaboration in strengthening public health infrastructure.
The official handover ceremony took place on 26 January 2026, bringing together senior government officials, hospital management, donor partners and stakeholders who collaborated to restore the ward into a modern, safe and dignified healing environment.
Speaking during the handover, the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Khanyakwezwe Mabuza, described the project as an important milestone in the Ministry’s efforts to strengthen healthcare service delivery in public health facilities. He expressed sincere appreciation to all donor partners, stating that their support has translated into improved infrastructure, a safer healing environment and renewed hope for women receiving care at the hospital.
The Principal Secretary outlined that the renovation scope included the removal of damaged structures such as roof sheets, toilets and hand wash basins; installation of a new roof; construction of an enclosed isolation ward; replacement of doors, ceilings, vinyl flooring, tiling and sanitary fittings; fixing of plumbing systems; repairs to damaged plaster walls; full repainting of the ward; replacement of lighting; and installation of new curtains.
He emphasized that the renovation is not only about improved physical infrastructure but also about restoring dignity for patients, improving working conditions for healthcare workers, reducing infection risks and enhancing the hospital’s capacity to provide quality, patient-centred care. He further noted that the initiative aligns with the National Health Sector Strategic Plan 2024–2028, which prioritises accessible, equitable and quality healthcare, with special attention to women.
The Principal Secretary also commended hospital management, technical teams and all stakeholders for ensuring the successful completion of the project.
He thanked patients for their patience during the renovation period, when services were temporarily relocated, and urged both staff and patients to take collective responsibility in maintaining the upgraded facility.
On behalf of the implementing partner, CONCO Limited General Manager, Muzi Mahlobo, said the refurbishment was extensive and aimed at creating a safer, more comfortable and dignified healing environment.
He highlighted that works completed included the installation of a new insulated roof and ceilings, vinyl flooring, a full bathroom revamp with new toilets, bathtubs and showers, upgraded plumbing and drainage systems, carpentry and joinery works for kitchen and office areas, installation of new doors and window fittings, and internal and external painting.
The General Manager noted that Ward 18 was established in the 1980s, admits over 900 women annually, and has a bed capacity of 44, underscoring the importance of investing in its upgrade. He also expressed appreciation to Business Women Eswatini (BWE) for partnering in sewing and installing all the curtains, describing the collaboration as a true demonstration of community partnership.
He added that the project aligns with Coca-Cola’s purpose of making a difference in people’s lives and communities, particularly in times of need, and reaffirmed CONCO Limited’s commitment to supporting similar impactful projects in the future.
On behalf of the hospital, Ward 18 Manager Hlobisile Gumede expressed heartfelt appreciation to all partners, donors and stakeholders. She said the renovation has significantly improved the working environment for staff and the overall experience for patients, restoring dignity and comfort for women receiving care in the ward.
The handover of the renovated Ward 18 stands as a strong example of effective public–private partnership, reinforcing a shared commitment to improving healthcare delivery, restoring hope and enhancing the wellbeing of women in Eswatini.
Business Eswatini Chief Executive Officer, E. Nathi Dlamini, expressed appreciation to all partners involved, stating that 2026 has been declared the year of working in collaboration, where government, the private sector and communities must come together to deliver sustainable solutions that directly impact the lives of Emaswati.
He emphasized that partnerships such as this one demonstrate the power of collaboration in strengthening national development, particularly in critical sectors such as health.
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