Africa-Press – Eswatini. Eswatini’s health sector has strengthened its critical care capacity through the handover of four blood gas analysers at Raleigh Fitkin Memorial Hospital on April 16, 2026. This was done through a joint effort between the Ministry of Health Eswatini, the United States Government, and faith-based health institutions to address gaps exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic and help prevent avoidable deaths.
At Raleigh Fitkin Memorial Hospital, the arrival of the analysers marks an important step forward. During the pandemic, doctors and nurses worked under pressure and often had limited tools when treating very sick patients who needed oxygen support. This made it harder to make quick and accurate decisions.
Blood gas analysers help solve this problem. They give fast results about a patient’s oxygen levels and breathing condition. This allows health workers to act quickly, adjust oxygen, and monitor patients closely. In serious cases, this can make the difference between life and death.
“This is not just about machines; it is about saving lives,” said U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Marc Weinstock during the handover. He said improving critical care now will help prevent deaths in the future.
The support is important for many people in Eswatini, especially those living with HIV, who are more likely to become seriously ill. Even though treatment has improved over the years, strong hospitals are still needed to care for patients who need urgent help.
This progress shows the power of working together. The Ministry of Health Eswatini provides leadership, while faith-based institutions like RFM and Nazarene Health Institutions continue to serve communities. International partners support these efforts with resources and skills.
For the hospital, which has served emaSwati for many years, the new machines bring hope. Health workers can now do their jobs with more confidence and give better care to patients.
The goal is clear to build a stronger health system that can face future challenges. Eswatini is using lessons from COVID-19 to prepare for what lies ahead and to protect more lives.
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