WORLD VISION CONTRIBUTES TO ENSURING EQUITY OF ACCESS TO MEDICINES

Speaking at the Official Handover of pharmaceutical drugs contributed by World Vision Swaziland to the Ministry of Health at the Central Medical Stores (CMS) in Matsapha, Minister Sibongile Ndlela-Simelane recognised that the donation by World Vision will contribute significantly towards the goal of ensuring equity of access to medicines in health facilities.

“These essential medicines that I am receiving today are a significant contribution that will enable the Ministry to move towards its goal of ensuring equity of access to medicines in our health facilities. The medicines donated by World Vision will address a wide range of ailments and will assist the Ministry to positively respond to the surge in the number of people that will be accessing our health facilities,” she said.

She noted that the contribution came not only in time to address the disease burden in the country but also in time for the festive season where health facilities experience an increase in numbers of people accessing health care.

She further thanked thank World Vision for the donation and gave assurance that they will be put to good use.

“I want to assure you that these essential medicines will be put to good use and more Swazis will access these essential medicines in the various health facilities. Let me re-emphasise that His Majesty’s government remains committed to the health of the nation towards Vision 2022,” she concluded.

World Vision Swaziland donated pharmaceutical drugs, which according to CMS would otherwise have cost them over E30M (US$3Million) to procure locally.

Conducting the official handover was WVS MD Solomon Tesfamariam, and receiving them was the Honourable Minister who was accompanied by her Principal Secretary, Dr Simon Zwane. Also in attendance were Senior Government Officials, representatives from all media houses and WVS staff.

By Thabile Maripe – Communications Manager