BY NOKUPHILA NXUMALO (INTERN)
NGCAYINI – The Ministry of Health, together with partners, brought an outreach programme to Ngcayini in the Manzini Region to commemorate African Vaccination Week 2025, providing immunisation and other health services to the community in order to improve access to healthcare in this hard-to-reach area.
Held under the theme “For Every Child, Vaccines Work,” the outreach programme brought essential health services closer to residents, reinforcing the country’s commitment to ensuring that no child is left behind in immunisation efforts.
Speaking during the event, Principal Health Administrator for the Manzini Region, Cebile Dlamini, representing the Deputy Director of Public Health, encouraged parents and caregivers to prioritise vaccinating their children on time. She highlighted that immunisation remains one of the most effective tools in preventing life-threatening diseases and safeguarding the health of communities.
The programme also highlighted Eswatini’s progress in expanding immunisation services, including the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine rollout, which now covers a wider age group. Health officials noted that vaccines continue to protect children and communities from diseases such as tuberculosis, polio, measles, rubella, pneumonia, rotavirus and diphtheria.
Sanelisiwe Bhangu, representing Manzini Regional Administration, emphasised the importance of outreach programmes in areas like Engcayini, which are often difficult to access. She noted that such initiatives play a critical role in reaching underserved populations and strengthening public health awareness.
Nkhomiyahlaba Member of Parliament, Mduduzi Mantunta Dlamini, expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Health for bringing services closer to the people. He said the outreach programme was a significant step in addressing healthcare challenges faced by the community and reiterated the need for continued investment in health infrastructure to further improve access.
Community leaders and residents welcomed the initiative, noting its impact in providing services such as health education, screenings and vaccinations directly to the people. The event also featured participation from schools and community groups, promoting awareness through educational activities, performances and engagement sessions.
The Ministry of Health reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening immunisation programmes, increasing awareness and expanding access to healthcare services across the country.
As Eswatini continues to advance its public health agenda, initiatives like these remain key in building healthier communities and ensuring a better future for every generation.
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