BY SETHABILE MYENI
MBABANE – The Minister of Health, Mduduzi Matsebula, has promised to instill discipline among health workers at all levels and enforce laws for the prevention of corruption within the health sector.
Speaking during the first meeting with the Senior Management Team at Hilton Garden Inn, Matsebula said he will make sure that the culprits that may have a hand in any corruption that is happening in the Ministry are spotted and dealt with accordingly.
“It really baffles me that some people are trying to build their wealth at the expense of other people’s lives. We will go through the reports so that we spot the individuals responsible for such acts,” he said.
Matsebula also mentioned that he is aware of the other challenges faced by the health sector and that some he raise himself in Parliament and Sibaya submissions. He promised to work together with the team in addressing all the issues.
“My vision is to improve the health system of Eswatini through creating a good image of the Ministry to the public through customer centric c approach driven by a professional and motivated staff; conducting health facility visits among others,” said Matsebula.
The Minister further assured the team of the love he has for the welfare of emaSwati and that he will consistently work towards achieving the passion he has.
“I am committed to pushing for strategies towards sustainable financing for health in the country and finding lasting solutions to the drug shortage crisis by attending to all issues raised at all levels of the supply chain management system including the establishment of the semi-autonomous central medical stores. I will also assure you of Reinvesting in Universal health care coverage and strengthening Primary health care services and do follow ups on bills such as the Cannabis Bill, Nursing Bill among others,” he said.
Matsebula continued to say he will establish clear working relationships between the Ministry and NGOs such as TLC to ensure sustained service delivery because the budget might be adequate to cater for all the needs of the ministry.
“Working together, we will also improve delivery of health services closer to the people in communities and protect the nation from high expenditure on health care, in order not to worsen the poverty situation,” said Matsebula.
The Minister later applauded the team for the excellent work they did in controlling diseases such as HIV, TB and recently Covid-19 and further assured the team of an open door policy through appropriate channels set up by the Ministry to foster a culture of transparency and open communication.
“I have affirmed with the PS that we will work closely with you to have a happy team. Likewise I will urge the same to me as we work towards strengthening the health system. I will be vising the health facilities and meeting partners to widen my understanding of what is prevailing on the ground. I believe in you and I commit to support you,” he concluded.
