Africa-Press – Eswatini. A turning point may be in sight for Eswatini’s health sector. Government has set an ambitious target to resolve the ongoing medication crisis within three months, if not sooner.
Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has committed to fast-tracking urgent reforms to ensure that essential medicines are restored to all health facilities across the kingdom.
This firm stance emerged during a heated session in Parliament, where the Premier presented a comprehensive statement outlining the challenges and the path forward.
His message was clear: the crisis can be solved, and will be, through decisive leadership and collaborative action.
Five Root Causes Identified
In his address, the PM identified five critical factors behind the current health crisis:
1. Procurement Delays – Inefficiencies and bureaucracy in the procurement process have stalled the supply of medication.
Solution: Streamlining the procurement chain through digitization and reduced red tape.
2. Payment Backlogs to Suppliers – Delayed payments have disrupted deliveries from suppliers.
Solution: A financial rescue plan has been developed to settle outstanding payments swiftly.
3. Poor Coordination Among Health Stakeholders – Fragmented communication between departments has resulted in bottlenecks.
Solution: The establishment of a central coordination unit for health logistics.
4. Corruption and Mismanagement – Unethical practices have allegedly contributed to medication shortages.
Solution: A crackdown on corruption, with investigations and disciplinary action already in motion.
5. Lack of Stock Monitoring Systems – Weak inventory systems failed to signal declining medicine levels in time.
Solution: Introduction of a real-time digital stock monitoring system across all public health facilities.
MPs Demand Timelines, Not Just Explanations
While Parliamentarians welcomed the detailed diagnosis and proposed remedies, many MPs called for specific implementation timelines. “We don’t want to hear why it happened; we want to know when it will be fixed,” one MP demanded, echoing the sentiment of the chamber.
Several lawmakers pointed to corruption as a central culprit. MP Tsembeni Magongo boldly stated, “Corruption is the root of this crisis,” urging government to act with urgency and transparency. Lubombo MP Futhi Ngcamphalala questioned the delay in implementing the Funduzi Report, a document believed to contain practical solutions for the health system.
Hope Amid Accountability
Despite the tension in the debate, the PM reassured the nation that government is mobilizing all necessary resources. His confidence was backed by a clear commitment: the drug shortage will be addressed in the shortest time possible.
As Eswatini rallies around its health system, the focus has shifted from blame to solutions. The nation waits with hope—and expectation, as the countdown begins toward a healed healthcare system and a restored sense of public trust.
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