Mbabane – Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini yesterday commissioned the E52 million Matsapha Healthcare Waste Management Plant, describing it as a key step in strengthening public health systems and protecting the environment. The PM also toured an oxygen plant at the Central Medical Stores, both projects supported by the Global Fund.
Speaking at the inauguration, the Prime Minister said the facility reflected Government’s commitment to safeguarding the wellbeing of emaSwati and ensuring safe, sustainable waste management.
The plant is equipped with a high-temperature incinerator capable of processing medical waste at up to 1,100°C, with both primary and secondary combustion chambers. 
“For many years, the country has faced the urgent challenge of safely collecting, transporting, treating, and disposing of expired healthcare products, this vision has now taken shape in the form of a centralized healthcare waste treatment facility,” PM Dlamini said.
“Today’s handover is not merely the completion of a building; it is the beginning of a new chapter in healthcare waste management in Eswatini. It is a symbol of our shared determination to protect our environment, safeguard communities, and uphold the dignity and health of every liSwati,” he added.
The plant has a processing capacity of 323 kilograms per hour. The PM noted the importance of meticulous preventive maintenance to ensure the longevity and reliability of the facility.
He also announced that the Ministry of Health had received three new Medical Waste Management vehicles from the Global Fund, valued at SZL3.3 million, which will ensure swift transportation of medical waste across the country once operations begin.
“This partnership with the Global Fund is a shining example of effective collaboration between Government institutions and development partners,” PM Dlamini said.
The inauguration was also attended by Mark Edington, Head of Grants at the Global Fund, highlighting the strength of partnerships driving sustainable healthcare solutions.
