Africa-Press – Eswatini. Hope has been renewed at Good Shepherd Catholic Hospital after Standard Bank Eswatini donated a E1.5 million aimed at reviving the facility’s long-closed children’s ward.
The cheque was handed over to Good Shepherd Hospital CEO Muzi Dlamini on April 17, 2026, during the official handover ceremony at the Bank’s boardroom in Mbabane, following the Bank’s site visit to Good Shepherd Hospital prior to the funding approval. This development is expected to significantly improve pediatric healthcare services across the Lubombo region.
The ward, which has remained closed for three years, is set to undergo major refurbishment following the funding.
Despite ongoing challenges, the hospital continues to record high demand for child healthcare, attending to more than 200 children every week, placing pressure on limited infrastructure and staff.
Good Shepherd Hospital CEO Muzi Dlamini described the support as a major breakthrough for the institution and the communities it serves.
“The hospital’s Kids Ward has remained closed for three years, forcing us to manage a high volume of pediatric cases under very difficult conditions,” he said. “This support is a game-changer for us.”
He added that the refurbishment will restore dignity and improve service delivery for children who depend on the facility.
“This funding will go directly toward reopening and upgrading the ward so that children receive proper and dignified care in a modern and safe environment,” said Dlamini.
Standard Bank Eswatini Chief Executive Mvuselelo Fakudze said the Bank’s intervention reflects its continued commitment to strengthening healthcare systems and supporting community development.
He said healthcare remains a key pillar of national development, especially in ensuring that vulnerable groups such as children receive quality care.
“Refurbishing the Good Shepherd Hospital Children’s Ward—which has been closed for three years—is a top priority for us,” said Fakudze. “We see healthcare as a cornerstone of community development, and supporting institutions like this is part of our responsibility to the nation.”
Fakudze added that the Bank remains focused on investments that deliver tangible and lasting impact in communities across Eswatini.
The E1.5 million sponsorship cheque is expected to fast-track refurbishment works, improve hospital capacity, and ease pressure on healthcare workers managing pediatric cases without a dedicated ward.
Once completed, the upgraded facility is expected to improve patient flow, enhance service delivery, and provide a safer and more dignified environment for children receiving care.
For families in Siteki and surrounding areas, the project brings renewed hope for improved access to quality child healthcare services.
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
