In a significant move to bolster regional public health efforts, Minister of Health Mduduzi Matsebula undertook a high-level visit to the Africa Centre of Disease Control (CDC)’s Southern Africa Regional Coordinating Centre.
A statement by the Africa CDC states that the visit is a testament to Eswatini’s commitment to collaborative health initiatives, focused on aligning the nation’s health priorities with the broader strategies of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.
During the visit, the minister confirmed that discussions centred on:
-
Strengthening health partnerships
-
Re-evaluating health financing models
-
Exploring advanced pooled procurement strategies
-
Establishing the Eswatini Public Health Institute (Eswatini CDC)
These talks highlighted a forward-thinking approach to public health, aiming to create more resilient and responsive health systems within the region.
“The proposed Eswatini CDC is seen as a crucial step in this direction, promising to enhance the country’s capacity for disease surveillance, outbreak response, and public health research.”
Facility Tours and Lessons Learned
Following the talks, the minister toured key facilities, including the Southern Africa Regional Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) and the Zambia National Public Health Institute.
Both were showcased as exemplary models of excellence, inspired by the Lusaka Call to Action.
“The opportunity to witness these operational hubs first-hand provided valuable insights into the effective coordination and rapid response mechanisms that are essential for addressing public health emergencies in a timely and efficient manner.”
Strengthening Regional Partnerships
The visit deepened the partnership between Eswatini and the Africa CDC, reinforcing their shared commitment to the New Public Health Order.
This framework calls for African nations to adopt a more integrated and proactive health system, prioritising:
-
Prevention
-
Preparedness
-
Collaborative action
By aligning its national goals with this regional vision, Eswatini is positioning itself to play a leading role in shaping the future of public health in Southern Africa.
The outcomes of the visit are expected to pave the way for concrete actions that will benefit both the people of Eswatini and contribute to the broader health security of the continent.
