By Ncaba Ntshakala
The Minister of Health Mduduzi Matsebula has challenged the newly appointed Board of Trustees of the Eswatini Nazarene Health Institutions (ENHI) to embody the “Nkwe” spirit in their leadership, ensuring that the institution does not fall into financial distress while upholding its core mandate of saving lives.
Speaking during the unveiling of the new board members, Matsebula made it clear that their appointment comes at a time when efficiency, innovation, and accountability are expected from all institutions operating in the country.
He emphasized that the ENHI cannot afford to experience the same financial struggles of the past, especially when other parastatals continue to grapple with similar challenges.
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The Minister urged the board to be proactive, strategic, and continue in their oversight of the institution, reminding them that healthcare remains a top priority for the Kingdom of Eswatini.
Matsebula appointed former health worker and legislator Strydom Mpanza as Chairperson of the new Board of Trustees where he highlighted the significance of experienced leadership in guiding ENHI toward a sustainable future.
He noted that since assuming office, his engagements with ENHI had always been met with concerns over the absence of a board, a challenge that has now been addressed with the introduction of a new governance structure.
The Minister expressed the crucial role that the board will play in providing high-level oversight of ENHI’s operations, setting strategic direction, and ensuring financial viability.
He outlined that their responsibilities include strategic planning, financial oversight, risk management, corporate governance, stakeholder engagement, and compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks.
It was said that by effectively executing these roles, the board will serve as a watchdog for the institution, guaranteeing that its activities align with its mission and the bigger objectives of national healthcare.
Matsebula further reflected on ENHI’s long-standing commitment to delivering compassionate and quality healthcare and he noted that the institution is on the verge of celebrating a significant milestone of 100 years of existence.
He acknowledged the continued dedication of ENHI in overcoming various challenges while continuing to serve the people of Eswatini.
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The government, he assured, remains committed to supporting the institution by strengthening partnerships that enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of health service delivery.
In this regard, he challenged the health sector, including ENHI, to align with His Majesty’s call to embrace the “Nkwe” mindset, which demands efficiency, resilience, and innovation.
He further reminded the board that while they hold an oversight function, they must not interfere in the day-to-day management of the institution.
Their role, he reiterated, is to ensure accountability, strategic guidance, and financial sustainability without hindering operational progress or innovation.
Moreover, Minister Mduduzi Matsebula emphasized that ENHI is in a phase of transformation and requires the full support of the board to realize its ambitious goals.
The institution has already presented a strategy to the Ministry aimed at preventing a recurrence of past financial challenges.
The Minister urged the board to ensure that this strategy is successfully implemented, guiding the institution toward self-sufficiency through robust partnerships with private entities and the adoption of innovative approaches in service delivery.
He acknowledged ENHI’s reputation for pioneering strategic initiatives that have influenced national health policies and encouraged the institution to continue leading by example in rethinking healthcare business models.
In addressing the institution’s leadership, Matsebula called on the Chief Executive Officer to serve as the primary point of communication between management and the board.
He emphasized the importance of regular reporting on ENHI’s operations, progress toward strategic goals, and key decision-making processes.
The executive team, he stressed, must embrace this accountability framework and work in close collaboration with the board to drive the institution forward.
He emphasized the Ministry of Health’s commitment to supporting ENHI and assured that the government remains dedicated to improving the lives of emaSwati through strengthened healthcare services.
The newly appointed Board members as approved by Cabinet:
- Strydom Mpanza – Chairperson
- Sipho Mncina – Member
- Thabile Methula – Member
- Sisana Khumalo – Member
- Tenanile Dlamini – Member
- Dr. Jonathan Dlamini – Member
- Khanyakwezwe Mabuza – Member
- Thulisile Gamedze – Member
- Mazwi Mavuso – Member
