BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MBABANE – The completion of the Stabilization Centre at Mshinande in Northern Hhohho marks a major milestone in Eswatini’s emergency response system, ushering in a new era of decentralized, life-saving care. The facility, now awaiting its official opening, reflects a forward-looking vision to bring urgent stabilization services closer to communities when they are needed most.
The concept was pioneered by the Emergency Preparedness and Response Unit (EPR), whose commitment to improving accident management has steadily reshaped national emergency care. This vision has been strengthened through vital support from the Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (SMVAF), whose resources and institutional backing have helped turn an idea into a fully realized facility. Together, EPR and SMVAF have formed a strong, people-centred partnership that prioritizes the well-being of accident survivors.
Established four years ago, the EPR Call Centre has already transformed emergency coordination across the country by improving communication, reducing response times, and ensuring efficient case management. The Mshinande Stabilization Centre builds on this success by adding critical physical infrastructure that complements the call centre’s nationwide reach.
During a tour of the facility ahead of its opening, Dr. Masitsela Mhlanga reflected on the journey from vision to completion. “We give glory to God for the progress made in this project, because the vision is now finally born,” he said, noting the relief the centre will soon provide to patients requiring immediate, stabilizing care.
Traditional leadership has warmly welcomed the development. Speaking on behalf of Chief Ngangaza, community representative Nkululeko Mavuso expressed appreciation for a project that responds to long-standing national needs. “We appreciate this noble project because it will save lives. The SMVAF and EPR partnership has brought us a facility our country has long needed, and we are deeply thankful,” he said.
SMVAF Chief Executive Officer Khangeziwe Mabuza described the centre as a clear expression of the Fund’s mandate. “I am honoured to be a part of this project, and I am humbled by this partnership that has made this vision a reality,” she said, adding that she believes the collaboration between SMVAF and EPR “will flourish and produce more fruits.”
The programme also highlighted environmental responsibility. As part of the national 10-million-tree campaign, the Ministry of Tourism donated trees for planting at the facility. SMVAF Corporate Communications Manager Makhosi Magongo noted that the initiative aligns with protecting life in its broadest sense, through both healthcare and environmental preservation.
Inside the centre, Senior Paramedic Khanyakwezwe Gama outlined the service footprint, which includes consultation rooms, a physiotherapy room, a ward, a resuscitation room, and specialized equipment supporting a six-bed capacity. He described the facility as an all-inclusive health service delivery approach supported by strong governance systems.
More than just a building, the Mshinande Stabilization Centre stands as a symbol of what can be achieved through shared vision and effective partnerships, offering renewed hope and improved emergency care for communities across Eswatini. 
