By Ncaba Ntshakala
Prime Minister Russell Dlamini has emphasized the importance of bridging the divide between senior nurses and junior staff, stating that this gap has contributed to challenges between the government and the nurses’ union.
The Premier made these remarks while inaugurating the Eswatini Nursing Leadership Initiative which PEPFAR supports on Monday at the Hilton Garden Inn.
Also present during the launch was the Minister of Health Mduduzi Matsebula and officials from the U.S Embassy.
During the launch, the Prime Minister added that Eswatini has been steadfast against the backdrop of the ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS and the Kingdom’s commitment to achieving ambitious healthcare targets.
The Premier expressed the significance of the Nursing Leadership Initiative in fortifying Eswatini’s healthcare infrastructure.
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With pride, Dlamini celebrated Eswatini’s distinction as one of the seven African countries selected to benefit from this transformative initiative, highlighting the pivotal role nurses play as the backbone of the nation’s health sector.
“The Nursing Leadership Initiative represents a pivotal moment in our collective journey towards achieving our healthcare goals,” declared the Premier.
Against the backdrop of past achievements and present challenges, he articulated a vision of resilience and progress, grounded in the empowerment of Eswatini’s nursing cadre.
Central to the Prime Minister’s address were the three foundational priorities of the Nursing Leadership Initiative, each meticulously crafted to empower nurses to lead, adapt, and thrive amidst evolving healthcare landscapes.
Firstly, Dlamini viewed the imperative of building leadership capacity among nurses, recognizing their dual role as caregivers and leaders within the healthcare system.
The Prime Minister stated that through targeted training and mentorship programs, nurses would be equipped with the tools and expertise needed to navigate the complexities of healthcare leadership, ensuring the sustainability of past gains and the effective management of emerging public health threats.
Secondly, Dlamini emphasised the importance of strengthening frontline nurses’ capacity to respond to emerging public health threats and emergencies.
As the first point of contact for individuals seeking healthcare services, frontline nurses play a pivotal role in detecting and responding to new and evolving infections.
By providing specialized training in infection control, disease surveillance, and outbreak management, Eswatini aims to empower its frontline nurses to address the evolving landscape of infectious diseases, including HIV/AIDS, with efficiency and precision.
Also, the Premier added the commitment to promoting workplace wellness among nurses, recognizing their invaluable contribution to patient care amidst the demands and pressures of their profession.
Pushing for a supportive workplace culture, characterized by mental health support services, stress management programs, and work-life balance initiatives, Eswatini seeks to create an environment where nurses feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive both personally and professionally.
The Prime Minister extended a heartfelt appreciation to PEPFAR for entrusting the Ministry of Health with the implementation of the Nurse Leadership Initiative, acknowledging their pledge to advancing global health.
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He also lauded the dedication and commitment of nurses across Eswatini, from training institutions to nursing associations, for their tireless efforts in improving healthcare delivery in the beloved nation.
Dlamini expressed the Ministry of Health’s commitment to the sustainability of the initiative and pledged to work tirelessly alongside partners and stakeholders to ensure its success.
He then declared the Eswatini Nurse Leadership Initiative officially launched.
UNAIDS pledges support of Nursing Leadership Initiative
The UNAIDS Country Representative highlighted that they would offer technical and financial assistance to PEPFAR and the Ministry of Health for the initiative.
The Country Representative lauded the collaboration between the government and PEPFAR for the initiative and their commitment towards eradicating AIDS.
The Country Representative lauded nurses for their service and pledged to support and promote the Nursing Leadership Initiative.
