The Ministry of Health in Eswatini convened a special event in Ezulwini today to commemorate World Health Day 2024. This year, the nation adopted the customised theme, ‘My Health, My Right,’ underscoring the fundamental principle that access to health is a basic human right. The event brought together representatives from Government Ministries, the Health Parliament Portfolio Committee, and key partners including the United Nations (UN) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Hon. Mduduzi Matsebula, the Minister of Health, underscored the significance of commemorating health days as vital advocacy and mobilization tools. He emphasized that such events not only provide an opportunity to celebrate achievements but also serve as a platform to identify gaps and areas requiring further strengthening.

Minister Matsebula articulated the importance of this year’s theme, stating, “This year’s theme for World Health Day is ‘My Health, My Right’. This theme reminds us to focus on systems, sectors, organizations, communities, and individuals, in ensuring that the right to health is upheld by all and all the time.”

The theme serves as a powerful call to action, urging stakeholders at all levels to prioritize efforts towards building resilient health systems, fostering inclusive health policies, and ensuring equitable access to healthcare services for all citizens. It emphasizes the collective responsibility of governments, organizations, communities, and individuals in upholding the right to health as a fundamental human right.

The commemoration of World Health Day in Eswatini highlights the country’s commitment to advancing public health and promoting the well-being of its citizens. Through collaborative efforts and sustained advocacy, the Ministry of Health aims to create a healthier and more equitable society, where every individual can access quality healthcare services and realize their right to health.