Phiwa Sikhondze
In a bold move to transform the nation’s healthcare landscape, the Public Service Pensions Fund (PSPF) has spearheaded a significant investment in the country’s first comprehensive Oncology Centre, located at the Swaziland Radiology Services, Philani Clinic in Manzini.
This landmark development marks a pivotal moment in Eswatini’s ongoing battle against cancer, offering advanced treatments that were once only accessible abroad.
The new Centre, a state-of-the-art facility, is the result of a collaboration between PSPF, Swaziland Radiology Services, and global medical technology giants, GE HealthCare and Elekta.
This partnership has equipped the clinic with cutting-edge technology, including a planning CT scanner, a brachytherapy machine, and radiotherapy equipment – setting a new standard for cancer treatment within the Kingdom.
During the official launch of the Oncology Centre, Masotja Vilakati, the CEO of PSPF, delivered a profound speech that underscored the broader significance of this investment. He emphasized that this initiative aligns closely with the PSPF’s mandate to enhance the well-being of its members and the nation at large while pursuing sustainable growth for the organization.
“This initiative represents not just a monumental step in our healthcare landscape but also aligns closely with the mandate to enhance the well-being of our members and EmaSwati in general,” Vilakati stated.
He acknowledged the long journey leading up to this point, expressing gratitude to the PSPF Board and Investment Committee for their commitment to this project, despite initial mixed feelings.
Vilakati also reflected on the devastating effects of cancer within the Eswatini society, sharing personal experiences of losing close relatives to the disease. He highlighted the urgent need for advanced healthcare facilities in the country, particularly for cancer treatment, and expressed regret that such a project took so long to materialize.
“Investing in medical care is not merely a philanthropic endeavour; it is a strategic necessity for the development of our nation and the enhancement of our society’s overall quality of life,” he noted.
The Fund’s decision to invest in the Oncology Centre is a strategic move that extends beyond healthcare, representing a significant step towards economic resilience. By providing advanced medical services within the country, Eswatini stands to reduce the outflow of funds spent on medical tourism and, in turn, retain and reinvest these resources into the local economy.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Health, Mduduzi Matsebula, highlighted during his keynote address that the new oncology services—spanning brachytherapy, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy—are critical in reducing the need for EmaSwati to seek treatment abroad.
“This investment is a testament to our commitment to the well-being of Emaswati. By bringing world-class cancer treatment to Eswatini, we not only enhance healthcare access but also alleviate the financial and emotional burdens on patients and their families,” Matsebula noted.