Africa-Press – Eswatini. Parliament has increased monitoring of the national response to HIV and tuberculosis, calling for accountability and measurable results during a multi stakeholder meeting held on 14 April 2026 at Happy Valley Hotel in Ezulwini.
The meeting brought together government officials, Members of Parliament, civil society, and development partners to improve coordination and accountability in the national response to HIV and TB.
Speaker of the House of Assembly Jabulani Mabuza said while the country has made progress in tackling the two diseases, more coordinated and responsible action is needed to address the ongoing burden. “Parliament remains central to this effort,” he said. “Through oversight, it ensures that public resources are used responsibly and that programmes deliver measurable outcomes.”
The meeting was held under the theme Advancing Collaborative Governance in the HIV and TB Response, Building Stronger Partnerships, focusing on improving cooperation across sectors and aligning efforts.
Mabuza stressed that Parliament plays three key roles, making laws, overseeing how public funds are used, and representing the concerns of emaSwati. He said these roles place Parliament at the centre of ensuring that the national response delivers real impact.
He also pointed to the importance of cooperation between the Parliamentary TB Caucus, the HIV and AIDS Sessional Committee, and the Health Portfolio Committee, saying a coordinated approach improves accountability and policy direction.
Regional support from the Southern African Development Community Parliamentary Forum was also noted as important in addressing shared challenges across countries.
The Speaker raised concern about the role of the Technical Working Group, saying its work must be guided by integrity, professionalism, and truth. “The quality of data and analysis from this group will directly affect the strength of Parliament’s oversight,” he said.
Mabuza warned against allowing personal or institutional interests to interfere with national priorities. He said all stakeholders must put the national interest first when making decisions. “The national interest must stand above all other considerations,” he said, adding that unity and discipline are needed to ensure effective use of resources and better outcomes.
He said the meeting should focus on practical solutions, guided by evidence, to improve coordination and accountability in the fight against HIV and TB. Mabuza left the meeting early due to other official commitments but expressed confidence that discussions would continue and produce meaningful outcomes.
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