Mbabane – As the Mbabane Government Hospital continues to face daily challenges, Minister of Health Mduduzi Matsebula has appealed to hospital staff to work closely with the Eswatini Ministry of Health to address ongoing shortcomings in the public healthcare system.
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The minister made the appeal yesterday during the launch of AI-assisted diagnostic equipment for diabetic retinopathy at the country’s busiest public hospital. The technology is expected to improve early detection and treatment of eye disease among people living with diabetes in Eswatini.
Unity Key to Solving Eswatini’s Public Health Crisis
Matsebula emphasised the importance of unity and collaboration among healthcare workers, warning that divisions within Eswatini’s public hospitals could hinder progress in tackling critical shortages.
His comments follow recent grievances by Mbabane Government Hospital staff, who cited drug shortages in Eswatini, insufficient medical staff, and other operational challenges. Workers recently delivered a petition to Parliament calling for urgent action to address the health crisis in Eswatini.
“We cannot solve our problems if we are divided. We can only find solutions by working together,” said Matsebula.
Noticeable Improvements Since Previous Visit
The minister reported that since his last visit to the Mbabane Government Hospital, there had been noticeable improvements in the availability of medical supplies in Eswatini. Some essential items that had been missing for months were now in stock.
“Some of these things had been missing for quite some time. When I arrived, I noted what was lacking. I then met with the committees responsible for availing those resources, and they informed me of what had been missing,” he said.
Matsebula clarified that his earlier remarks had sometimes been misinterpreted as suggesting that all essential drugs were fully stocked. Instead, he said his intention was to recognise progress made and appreciate the deliveries that had been received.
Government Committed to Strengthening Healthcare Services
The Eswatini Ministry of Health remains committed to strengthening the country’s healthcare system. Matsebula urged staff across all levels of Mbabane Government Hospital to continue working together to address any remaining shortages swiftly and effectively.
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He also highlighted the facility’s central role in the nation’s healthcare network, describing it as one of the busiest and most important public hospitals in Eswatini.
“We will continue working together to close the gaps. Government is committed to employing more health workers in Eswatini so that we can strengthen capacity and improve service delivery,” Matsebula said.
