BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE – Mbabane came alive on Friday, November 4, 2025 as the Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Government of Taiwan and other partners hosted a vibrant commemoration of World Diabetes Day 2025 at the Mbabane Municipal Council car park.
The event brought together government officials, health practitioners, community members, and international partners to raise awareness about diabetes and promote healthier lifestyles.
The day’s activities included a healthy walk, aerobics, and health education sessions, designed to empower residents with knowledge on diabetes prevention and management. The event also emphasised the importance of early screening, healthy diets, and active living as part of the city’s public health agenda.
Mayor Thulani Mkhonto reaffirmed Mbabane’s leadership in public health, stating: “Today, we join the global community in raising awareness of diabetes one of the world’s leading health challenges and reaffirm our city’s commitment to preventing and managing non-communicable diseases.
Our public health agenda is anchored in the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3 on good health and wellbeing. With one in five adults in Eswatini at risk of premature death from diabetes and related conditions, we must prioritise prevention, early screening, healthy diets, and active lifestyles.”
Representing the HoHho Regional Administrator, HRH Princess Tsandzile, Lungile Kubheka praised the collaboration: “We must offer special mention to the Republic of China (Taiwan) for their generous medical outreach visits to our communities. Their efforts aid the Ministry of Health in getting closer to the people, and we have been fortunate to host such visits right here in the Hhohho Region.”
The commemoration also highlighted the theme for this year, “Diabetes across life stages,” reminding residents that diabetes can affect anyone at any age. Kubheka encouraged the public to actively engage with health personnel and take preventive measures. “Being healthy is the very foundation of progress. We must start today by committing to a healthier lifestyle, beginning with the healthy walk and aerobics that kicked off this wonderful day,” he added.
Through this event, the Ministry of Health and its partners demonstrated their dedication to strengthening health systems and supporting communities in Eswatini. Mbabane continues to promote wellness, reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases, and align local efforts with global health priorities.
World Diabetes Day 2025 in Mbabane served as a strong reminder that public health is a shared responsibility, and that through education, community engagement, and strategic partnerships, a healthier, stronger city is possible.
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