Ntsika Fakudze is NERCHA’s 9th Council Chair
By Siphesihle Dlamini
The National Emergency Response Council on HIV and AIDS (NERCHA) has entered a new chapter with the appointment of King’s Office Director of Legal Affairs Ntsika Fakudze as its chairperson, marking the beginning of the 9th Council’s three-year tenure.
This significant leadership transition was officially announced by Prime Minister Russell Dlamini, who emphasised the crucial role NERCHA plays in the country’s fight against the HIV and AIDS pandemic.
Fakudze takes over the reins from former Ambassador H.E. Njabuliso Gwebu, who had diligently led the council since 2022.
The handover symbolises continuity and renewed vigour in the nation’s multisectoral response to HIV and AIDS, a challenge that remains a top public health priority.
The newly constituted 9th NERCHA Council, which assumed office on 25 August 2025, comprises a diverse and experienced group of individuals.
Alongside Chairperson Fakudze, the council includes Sifiso Dlamini, Pauline Dlamini, Hani Dlamini, Eric Seyama, Nhlanhla Nhlabatsi, Dr. Penuel Gina, Khanyisile Dube, Dr. Siphile Msane, Reverend Zachariah Mthethwa, Zanele Dlamini, Dr. Nondumiso Ncube, and Victor Nxumalo.
This team is tasked with steering the national response to HIV and AIDS with strategic oversight and collaborative leadership.
In his address, Fakudze articulated the council’s ambitious agenda.
He underscored the weighty responsibility the board carries in the short term, emphasising the need to assist NERCHA in reaching its full strategic potential.
“As I speak on behalf of the board, we want to underscore that the assignment and the mandate that lies before us in the short term is packed with many things to achieve and deliver on,” he said.
Fakudze highlighted the council’s role in providing oversight and guidance, working hand in hand with the management team to ensure that the organisation meets its objectives effectively.
Prime Minister Russell Dlamini welcomed Fakudze’s leadership, describing NERCHA as one of the country’s most pivotal institutions. He acknowledged the enormous task of coordinating a multisectoral response to HIV and AIDS.
He expressed confidence in the new council’s ability to support the National Executive Director and management team in fulfilling the organisation’s mandate.
The Prime Minister also took the opportunity to commend the outgoing Chairperson, Ambassador Gwebu, for her dedicated service and welcomed her return to the council as a member for a second term.
The formation of the 9th NERCHA Council comes at a critical time when the country continues to grapple with the HIV and AIDS epidemic.
The council’s strategic oversight will be vital in ensuring that prevention, treatment, and support programs are effectively implemented across all sectors.
The diverse expertise of the council members, ranging from health professionals to community leaders, is expected to enhance the council’s capacity to deliver impactful interventions.