BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
EZULWINI – The morning sun lit up the serene gardens of Bethel Court Vineyard Hotel, where the gentle aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the warm chatter of guests arriving for a special gathering.
But this was no ordinary breakfast, it was a moment of reflection, unity, and commitment, as health leaders, parents, and caregivers came together to mark World Patient Safety Day.
At the heart of the event was Dr. Velephi Okello, the Director of Health Services in the Ministry of Health. With calm conviction, she spoke of this year’s theme: “Patient Safety from the Start.” Her words painted a vision of a society where every newborn child enters a world ready to protect them, nurture them, and keep them safe from harm.
“We must prevent avoidable harm from the very beginning of life,” she said, urging that patient safety cannot wait until adulthood. “It begins at birth and continues through the critical first nine years of childhood.”
Around her, the audience nodded in agreement, a mix of health practitioners, community leaders, and parents who understood that a child’s future depends on the choices made today.
Dr. Okello’s call was clear: safety is a shared responsibility. Parents and caregivers must remain vigilant, healthcare professionals must uphold the highest standards of care, and community leaders must champion awareness and support. Together, she emphasized, these collective efforts align with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), ensuring a safer and healthier future for all children in Eswatini.
As the meeting continued, stories of dedication and hope filled the room. A nurse shared how simple hygiene practices saved lives in maternity wards. A young mother spoke of her relief knowing that her child was being cared for by professionals who put safety first. Each testimony echoed the same truth: when it comes to children, there can be no compromise on safety.
The breakfast meeting ended on a hopeful note, not with just full plates, but with full hearts and a renewed determination. The message was unmistakable: patient safety is not a distant goal, but a daily practice, beginning with every child born today.
