The Kingdom of Eswatini will host regional health leaders, policymakers and innovators for the 16th ECSA HC Best Practices Forum and the 32nd Directors Joint Consultative Committee meeting in Ezulwini from 3 to 7 August 2026.
The high level gathering is organised by the East Central and Southern Africa Health Community in partnership with the Ministry of Health. It will bring together delegates from across the ECSA region to deliberate on the future of healthcare systems at a time when countries are confronting workforce shortages, funding constraints and the need for stronger health security.
Held under the theme Shaping the Future of Health in the ECSA Region: Advancing Health Security, Innovation and Sustainability, the forum seeks to chart a path towards resilient and responsive health systems. 
According to the organisers, the meeting will serve as a platform for countries to share best practices and explore practical solutions aimed at strengthening service delivery and promoting innovation. Discussions are expected to focus on health workforce development, sustainable financing, digital health systems and improved service delivery.
The East Central and Southern Africa Health Community has invited stakeholders and members of the public to take part in the conversation ahead of the event by responding to the question, “What is the biggest challenge in your country’s health system?” Suggested areas of concern include workforce, financing, digital health and service delivery.
The Ministry of Health confirmed that hosting the forum places Eswatini at the centre of regional health dialogue and collaboration, as countries work collectively to improve health outcomes and prepare for emerging threats.
