Country needs more dialysis centres – Senator
Senator Isaac Mmemo Magagula has applauded the hands-on approach of the Minister of Health while simultaneously raising serious concerns over the shortage of dialysis centres and staff in the ministry.
Speaking during Tuesday’s Ministry of Health Portfolio Committee Sitting, Senator Magagula acknowledged the Minister’s visible leadership but warned of the risks it may bring if not properly managed.
“Your hands-on administration should be commended, Honourable Minister,” Magagula said. “Having a minister who works or goes around the office gives an opportunity or opens a gate to corruption.”
Magagula went on to praise the establishment of a dedicated cancer clinic in the country but urged the ministry to intensify the fight against the disease, which continues to claim many lives.
“Having a special cancer clinic should be applauded. However, the fight against this disease should be looked into seriously,” he stressed.
The Senator also expressed concern over the country’s limited dialysis infrastructure, revealing that only three dialysis centres are currently serving a growing number of patients.
“There are 345 people in Eswatini who need dialysis services, yet we only have three centres to cater for them. This is not enough. The facilities must be expanded to meet the demand,” Magagula submitted.
He further lamented the shortage of staff within the Ministry of Health, noting that the lack of medical personnel is hindering service delivery in clinics and hospitals across the country.
“The Ministry needs urgent attention when it comes to human resources. Staff shortages are affecting our people, especially in rural areas where healthcare access is already limited,” he added.
The Portfolio Committee sitting comes at a time when the nation is grappling with rising healthcare needs and ongoing shortages of medication and resources in public health facilities.
The deliberations are expected to shape future policy adjustments and budget allocations within the health sector.
