BY BANELE MAGONGO
MBABANE – The Tshiamiso Trust has announced another round of Benefit Medical Examinations (BMEs) in Eswatini this month, aimed at enhancing accessibility for eligible ex-mineworkers seeking compensation for silicosis or TB.
According to a statement issued by BME, the services will be held in Hlatikhulu Government Hospital (May 6 to 10, 2024), Raleigh Fitkin Memorial (RFM) Hospital, Manzini (May 13 to 16, 2024), Siteki Referral Hospital (May 17, 2024), Mbabane Male Wellness Centre (May 20 to 21, 2024), and Pigg’s Peak Government Hospital (May 23, 2024).
According to Tshiamiso Trust Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr Munyadziwa Kwinda, BMEs play a vital role in the claims process for former mineworkers suffering from silicosis or tuberculosis. These examinations provide critical evidence of the diseases and assess the extent of lung damage caused by occupational exposure to dust. Kwinda emphasised that before the introduction of BMEs in Eswatini, claimants faced significant challenges in progressing through the certification process.
The CEO further highlighted the importance of expediting the BME process due to the Trust’s limited 12-year lifespan, emphasising the need for widespread outreach to potential claimants. Following the BMEs, the Trust’s Medical Certification Panel (MCP) analyses the findings to make an informed decision on the eligibility of each claim. In cases where claimants dispute the MCP’s findings, they will have the chance to appeal through the Medical Review Panel, a measure put in place to ensure fairness and transparency in the process.
Kwinda warned claimants to be wary of any individuals posing as representatives of the Trust or offering false promises to expedite their claims. The CEO stressed that only the Tshiamiso Trust can process claims, and this service was completely free of charge. However, in cases where a claimant worked in risk-exposed conditions for less than five years, a BME fee of E900 could be required, but this amount would be refunded, if the claim was found to be eligible. Kwinda also emphasised that claimants should only share their documents with officials at the lodgement offices to ensure the integrity of the process.
Useful links:
To check eligibility to lodge a claim: https://www.tshiamisotrust.com/status-check/
To view the claims process: https://www.tshiamisotrust.com/information/how-to-claim/
To view daily progress of claims and payments: https://www.tshiamisotrust.com/information/progress-report/
