Pro-Media News

04/09/2026

FROM CAPACITY GAPS TO LEADERSHIP: ENHI CELEBRATES A TRANSFORMATIVE ALLOCATE PROJECT JOURNEY

97% NUPAS score, strengthened health systems and investment in healthcare workers mark a major milestone for Eswatini Nazarene Health Institutions

By Sandile Zwide Nxumalo

MATSAPHA, ESWATINI — 4 SEPTEMBER 2026 — The Eswatini Nazarene Health Institutions (ENHI) has marked a major institutional milestone following the completion of the Accelerating Local Organizational Capacity for Achieving TB/HIV Epidemic Control (ALLOCATE) Project, with the three-year initiative strengthening healthcare-worker capacity, institutional systems and the delivery of HIV and tuberculosis services across the Kingdom.

The milestone was celebrated on Thursday, 3 September 2026, at Esibayeni Lodge in Matsapha during the ALLOCATE Project Graduation Ceremony held under the theme “From Capacity Gaps to Leadership: ENHI’s Journey to Sustainable Excellence.” The ceremony brought together the Minister of Health, Mduduzi Matsebula, ENHI Chief Executive Officer Mazwi Mavuso, Parliament and government representatives, development partners, healthcare workers, clinical mentors and programme teams.

At the centre of the celebration was a powerful measure of institutional transformation: ENHI has achieved an outstanding 97% overall score in the Non-U.S. Organization Pre-Award Survey (NUPAS) Assessment, up from 68% in 2023.

FROM 68% TO 97%: A FOUR-YEAR TRANSFORMATION

The NUPAS results reflect a sustained improvement journey supported by capacity building, mentorship, technical assistance, stronger governance and institutional commitment.

ENHI recorded 68% in 2023, rising to 71% in 2024, before making a significant breakthrough with 92% in 2025. In 2026, the institution reached an exceptional 97%, demonstrating the progress made in strengthening its organisational systems and operational capacity.

The achievement was announced by Georgetown University Country Resident Director, Professor Samson Haumba, during the graduation ceremony.

For ENHI, the 97% score represents more than an assessment result. It reflects years of work to strengthen financial management, procurement, accountability, governance, programme implementation and institutional systems.

ENHI CEO Mazwi Mavuso described the milestone as evidence of continuous learning, resilience, mentorship, partnership and teamwork, while emphasising that the knowledge and systems developed through ALLOCATE must continue to be applied long after the project has ended.

ALLOCATE REACHES 11 ENHI FACILITIES

Over its three-year implementation period, ALLOCATE supported 11 ENHI facilities, including Raleigh Fitkin Memorial Hospital, contributing to the strengthening of healthcare-worker capacity and the quality of HIV and TB services.

According to Minister of Health Mduduzi Matsebula, the programme contributed to improving the quality of care and quality of life of approximately 30,000 clients receiving antiretroviral therapy across all four regions of Eswatini.

The Minister stressed that behind the figure are individuals, families and communities whose lives depend on effective and compassionate healthcare services.

The programme invested heavily in clinical mentorship, coaching, professional development and knowledge-sharing, strengthening the ability of healthcare workers to provide evidence-based care.

FROM PROJECT SUPPORT TO INSTITUTIONAL OWNERSHIP

Minister Matsebula said the graduation should not be viewed as the end of ENHI's journey, but rather as the beginning of greater responsibility.

He called on graduates to apply their knowledge in their workplaces, mentor colleagues, strengthen teams, improve patient care and contribute to better HIV and TB outcomes.

Mavuso similarly emphasised that certificates should become practical tools rather than decorations, with the true test of the programme taking place in ENHI's clinics, wards, laboratories, offices and boardrooms.

ENHI has also committed to integrating ALLOCATE tools and lessons into its institutional policies, workplans and standard operating procedures, while continuing mentorship, peer learning, staff development, monitoring and performance reviews.

FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP ALSO SHOWS PROGRESS

The institutional strengthening journey has also produced measurable financial improvements.

Mavuso revealed that ENHI's cumulative deficit had been reduced from approximately E40 million to E26 million in one year, based on its recently audited financial statements for the year ended March 2026.

He described the improvement as evidence of stronger financial stewardship, budgeting and institutional discipline, while acknowledging that further work remains necessary to achieve long-term sustainability.

PARTNERSHIP BEHIND THE PROGRESS

The achievements were supported through a partnership involving the Government and people of the United States of America, the Office of Foreign Assistance, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Georgetown University.

Minister Matsebula said the ALLOCATE Project was supported by an investment of more than US$600,000, approximately E9.6 million, over three years, through a sub-award from Georgetown University under SEASEC funds supported by the US CDC.

The Minister described the investment as more than financial support, saying it represented confidence in Eswatini's health sector, ENHI and the ability of local institutions to deliver lasting results.

ENHI also recognised the Ministry of Health, Georgetown University, CDC, development and implementing partners, clinical mentors, healthcare workers, programme teams and other stakeholders whose contributions supported the programme.

THE REAL TEST BEGINS NOW

As ENHI closes the ALLOCATE chapter, the institution now faces the responsibility of protecting and building on the gains achieved.

The organisation's leadership says sustainability will depend on ensuring that strengthened systems remain functional, healthcare workers continue sharing knowledge, resources are responsibly managed and institutional improvements translate into better services and patient outcomes.

The journey from 68% to 97% therefore represents more than an impressive assessment trajectory. It marks ENHI's transition from capacity building towards stronger institutional ownership, leadership and sustainable excellence — with the ultimate measure being safer, better and more responsive healthcare for the people of Eswatini.

PRO MEDIA NEWS — INFORMING. INSPIRING. EMPOWERING.

04/09/2026

MSHIKISHI MDZEBELE — THE LEGEND TO BE HONOURED IN A HISTORIC DOUBLE CELEBRATION

72 Years of Life. 52 Years of Music. One extraordinary legacy that shaped generations of Eswatini music.

By Sandile Zwide Nxumalo

EZULWINI, 4 SEPTEMBER 2026 — Eswatini is preparing for a landmark celebration of music, culture and legacy as legendary Umbhacanga musician Mshikishi Mdzebele, affectionately known as The Legend and Gorilla Man, is set to be honoured for an extraordinary 72 years of life and 52 years in music.

The historic Double Celebration is scheduled for 21 November 2026, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM at Emsengeni Lounge, Ezulwini, bringing together generations of music lovers, fellow artists, family, friends, cultural enthusiasts and supporters to celebrate a musical journey spanning more than five decades.

52 YEARS OF MUSIC. A LEGACY WORTH PRESERVING

This will be far more than a birthday celebration or ordinary music concert.

The organisers are positioning the occasion as a cultural and heritage celebration dedicated to preserving the story and contribution of one of Eswatini’s respected musical figures while using his remarkable journey to inspire the next generation.

After 52 years in music, the celebration will provide an opportunity to reflect on Mshikishi’s contribution to Eswatini’s music landscape, highlight milestones from his career and explore the journey that has allowed his music and influence to endure across generations.

A special focus will also be placed on Mshikishi himself — his experiences, his resilience, his musical journey and his vision for the future of Eswatini’s music industry.

THE RETURN OF THE GORILLA MAN

The Double Celebration will also mark a special return of Mshikishi Mdzebele — The Gorilla Man, creating an opportunity for audiences to reconnect with the legendary performer and celebrate his enduring presence in the country’s music scene.

Respected musicians and artists who have shared different chapters of his musical journey are expected to form part of the celebration, creating a powerful meeting of generations and musical experiences.

Young and upcoming artists will also be given a platform to showcase their talents, ensuring that the event looks not only at the legacy of the past but also towards the future of Eswatini’s creative industry.

UMBHACANGA AT THE HEART OF THE CELEBRATION

Eswatini’s indigenous music heritage will take centre stage, with Umbhacanga forming an important part of the celebration.

The organisers believe that honouring a 52-year musical journey provides an important opportunity to recognise the value of indigenous music, preserve its history and ensure that the stories of artists who helped shape Eswatini’s musical identity are not lost.

The event will therefore combine music, storytelling, recognition, cultural preservation and intergenerational inspiration.

TRIBUTES, PERFORMANCES AND SPECIAL MOMENTS

Family members, fellow musicians, friends, fans and members of the wider community will have an opportunity to pay tribute to Mshikishi and celebrate his contribution to the country.

The programme is expected to feature special performances, recognitions, surprises and memorable moments designed to make the milestone celebration worthy of The Legend.

PRESERVING THE STORY FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS

Beyond the stage, the organisers are placing strong emphasis on documenting Mshikishi Mdzebele’s legacy.

Interviews, performances, photographs and personal stories will form part of the documentation process, creating a record of his musical journey and contribution to Eswatini’s cultural heritage.

This documentation is intended to ensure that future generations can learn about the artist, the era in which he made his mark and the cultural significance of the music he helped carry forward.

SPONSORS AND PARTNERS INVITED TO JOIN THE LEGACY

Businesses, brands, organisations, cultural institutions and individuals are being invited to partner in making the celebration a success.

The event offers sponsors and partners an opportunity to associate themselves with a meaningful cultural, heritage and legacy initiative while supporting both an established artist and the development of upcoming talent.

Partnership opportunities include marketing and promotional support, products and branded items, monetary contributions, professional services and in-kind support.

Every contribution will help create a memorable celebration while supporting efforts to preserve an important chapter of Eswatini’s musical history.

MORE THAN A CELEBRATION

The organisers believe the significance of the Double Celebration extends beyond 21 November 2026.

It is an opportunity to remind younger generations that the music industry has a history, that its pioneers deserve recognition and that cultural heritage must be protected, documented and passed on.

For Mshikishi Mdzebele, 72 years of life and 52 years in music represent more than milestones. They represent a lifetime of memories, music, influence and contribution — a legacy now being brought together for one unforgettable celebration.

EVENT DETAILS

Event: Mshikishi Mdzebele – The Legend Double Celebration
Celebrating: 72 Years of Life | 52 Years in Music
Date: 21 November 2026
Venue: Emsengeni Lounge, Ezulwini
Time: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

SPONSORSHIP & PARTNERSHIP ENQUIRIES

7954 8501 | 7605 3728

Come and celebrate The Legend.
Come and celebrate the music.
Come and celebrate Eswatini’s heritage.

MSHIKISHI MDZEBELE — THE LEGEND
72 YEARS OF LIFE | 52 YEARS IN MUSIC



PRO MEDIA NEWS — INFORMING. INSPIRING. EMPOWERING.

03/09/2026

MISTOSOUL TAKES LADIES NIGHT BACK TO THE CLASSICS AT IF’S LOUNGE

MANZINI — Thursday night is in full swing at IF’s Lounge and Restaurant in Moneni, and Mistosoul is digging deep into the old-school house catalogue.

From timeless house classics to those familiar grooves that still command the dance floor, Mistosoul is keeping Ladies Night moving with a set built for house music lovers.

The classics never get old. The beat is right. Moneni is dancing.

03/09/2026

03/09/2026

PARLIAMENT TAKES THE CLIMATE FIGHT HEAD-ON: ESWATINI TARGETS METHANE EMISSIONS

Lawmakers, Senators and government stakeholders converge in Manzini to turn climate commitments into concrete action

By Sandile Zwide Nxumalo

MANZINI, 3 SEPTEMBER 2026 — Eswatini has intensified its parliamentary response to climate change as Members of Parliament, Senators, members of the Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Portfolio Committee, Parliament staff and other stakeholders gather at The George Hotel in Manzini for a two-day Climate Change and Methane Emissions Reduction Training.

The training, running from 3–4 September 2026, is being hosted by the Parliament of the Kingdom of Eswatini in partnership with the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) under the theme Enhancing parliamentary action on climate change: Building capacity and strengthening efforts to reduce methane emissions.

The Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs is represented by Acting Principal Secretary Jane Mkhonta-Simelane, who is participating in the discussions focused on strengthening national action on climate change and methane emissions.

Opening the programme, Clerk to Parliament Benedict Xaba welcomed participants and emphasised the importance of strengthening Parliament’s capacity to respond effectively to climate challenges. The training seeks to equip lawmakers and parliamentary staff with knowledge that can support stronger legislation, oversight, budgeting and constituency engagement.

Methane is a major focus because of its significant contribution to near-term global warming. Participants are examining major sources of methane emissions and exploring practical measures to reduce emissions while delivering wider benefits for communities and the economy.

For Eswatini, the discussions come against the backdrop of climate pressures, including drought, changing rainfall patterns and extreme weather conditions that can affect food security, water resources, livelihoods and economic development.

The programme is examining methane emissions across key sectors including agriculture, livestock, waste management, wastewater and energy-related activities. Participants are also assessing existing policies, national climate commitments, institutional arrangements and gaps that could hinder effective implementation.

A key session features Hon. Dickson Kyere Duah, Member of Parliament for Berekom West, Ghana, focusing on Ghana’s parliamentary experience in elevating methane reduction as a legislative issue and lessons that Eswatini lawmakers can apply.

The second day will shift the discussions from knowledge to action, with participants expected to identify priority areas for parliamentary intervention and develop practical actions, including parliamentary questions, oversight initiatives and policy proposals.

A major expected outcome is the development of a draft Private Member’s Motion on methane reduction, based on evidence and recommendations emerging from the training.

The initiative also seeks to strengthen collaboration between Parliament, government institutions and other stakeholders while improving parliamentary scrutiny of climate-related policies and budgets.

With technical and financial support from the IPU, the training places Parliament at the centre of efforts to translate climate commitments into stronger legislation, effective oversight and practical national action.

As discussions continue at The George Hotel, the focus is increasingly shifting from climate commitments to climate action, with lawmakers being challenged to use Parliament’s legislative, oversight and representative powers to help build a more resilient and sustainable Eswatini.



PRO MEDIA NEWS — INFORMING. INSPIRING. EMPOWERING.

03/09/2026

FARMERS URGED TO PLANT WITH THE FIRST RAINS AS EL NIÑO CONCERNS LOOM

Agriculture Ministry calls for early planting to maximise rainfall and protect food production

Manzini, 3 SEPTEMBER 2026 — Farmers across Eswatini are being urged to prepare their fields early and plant as soon as the first effective rains begin, amid concerns that possible El Niño conditions could bring periods of reduced rainfall during the upcoming cropping season.

Director in the Ministry of Agriculture Nikiwe Thwala-Dlamini is encouraging farmers to take advantage of the first suitable rains rather than delaying planting, as early establishment of crops could be critical if dry conditions develop later in the season.

The call comes as farmers prepare for the 2026/27 agricultural season, with rainfall patterns expected to remain an important factor in determining crop performance and food security.

Thwala-Dlamini stressed the importance of farmers being ready before the rains arrive, including preparing land, sourcing inputs and ensuring that seed is available so that planting can begin promptly once soil moisture becomes suitable.

The possible influence of El Niño makes timing particularly important. If rainfall becomes erratic or dry spells occur after the onset of the season, crops planted late could face greater moisture stress during critical stages of growth.

Farmers are therefore encouraged to closely follow official weather and agricultural advisories and make informed decisions based on prevailing conditions.

The Ministry’s message also highlights the need for climate-smart farming practices, including moisture conservation and appropriate crop choices, to strengthen resilience against changing weather patterns.

For smallholder farmers in particular, making maximum use of available rainfall can be crucial to protecting yields and household food supplies.

With the new planting season approaching, the Ministry is urging farmers not to wait until the season is well advanced. The message is clear: prepare now, and when the first effective rains arrive, be ready to plant.



PRO MEDIA NEWS — INFORMING. INSPIRING. EMPOWERING.

03/09/2026

🚨 WANDERERS FIRE BACK: “THE PROCESS LEFT US WITH NO ROOM TO COMPLY”

Manzini Wanderers challenges the timing of the Red Rhinos status decision, demanding clarity over how the controversial transaction was handled

MANZINI – 3 September 2026 — Manzini Wanderers Football Club has broken ranks with a strongly worded statement questioning how its status transaction with Red Rhinos was handled, putting the spotlight squarely on the timing, communication and fairness of decisions taken by football authorities.

The club says this was not a transaction conducted behind closed doors.

According to the Wanderers Board of Directors, both clubs formally notified the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) on 10 July 2026 of their intended acquisition and status transaction, after which the process continued with the knowledge of both the PLE and Eswatini Football Association (EFA).

Yet Wanderers says that throughout the process, neither club was told that its application was fundamentally defective or incapable of succeeding.

Instead, the club says it was repeatedly directed between the relevant structures, encouraged to make further submissions and even changed its proposed trading names after receiving guidance on how to satisfy the requirements.

Then came what Wanderers describes as its biggest concern — the timing of the final decision.

The club says correspondence rejecting the proposed name changes arrived on the very day it was expected to complete player registrations and deal with its scheduled football commitments.

The situation became even more complicated because the fixture against Green Mamba was listed under the Red Rhinos name, despite the status transaction involving Wanderers.

For the club, this created an administrative crisis with virtually no time to adjust registrations, clarify the identity under which the team was expected to play and prepare for the fixture.

Wanderers argues that the central question is therefore not simply whether its application was ultimately approved or rejected.

The bigger question, according to the club, is whether it was given enough guidance, certainty and time to comply.

The Board says football authorities should do more than simply enforce regulations; they should also assist clubs in navigating complicated processes involving acquisitions, status transactions and player registration.

Such an approach, Wanderers argues, would strengthen governance, transparency and the integrity of Eswatini football.

Despite its concerns, the club says it remains committed to respecting the authority of both the PLE and EFA.

However, it wants clarity on what happened, when decisions were made, what guidance was given and why the decisive communication came so late.

The statement adds a powerful new dimension to the Red Rhinos–Wanderers saga, which has already spilled onto the field through the abandoned Green Mamba fixture.

With the cup replay now scheduled, the football may be returning to the pitch — but the questions surrounding the status transaction are far from over.

PRO MEDIA NEWS – INFORMING. INSPIRING. EMPOWERING.

03/09/2026

MALKERNS PARKVIEW OPENS — A NEW COMMERCIAL POWERHOUSE RISES IN MALKERNS

Bigger retail. New opportunities. A fresh chapter for one of Eswatini’s growing communities.

By Sandile Zwide Nxumalo

MALKERNS, 3 SEPTEMBER 2026 — Malkerns has entered a new commercial era following the official opening of Malkerns Parkview, a major development bringing expanded retail, essential services, business opportunities and increased economic activity closer to the community.

The development was officially opened by Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Hon. Manqoba Khumalo, who described the project as a strong example of how private-sector investment can contribute to economic growth, employment creation and the development of vibrant, sustainable communities.

For residents, one of the biggest changes is the arrival of a larger Pick n Pay Malkerns store, which has relocated from Malkerns Square to its new home at Malkerns Parkview, only a few metres from its former premises.

The new store provides more space and is designed to offer customers an enhanced shopping experience with greater convenience and choice. Meanwhile, the former Pick n Pay premises are set to be transformed into a fresh produce market, adding another layer of commercial activity to the area.

The opening also marked a significant moment for African Alliance, with Khumalo commending the organisation for its contribution to Eswatini’s development and its support for His Majesty King Mswati III’s vision of transforming the Kingdom into a first-world country.

The Minister emphasized that developments of this nature should generate tangible benefits for Emaswati through employment, entrepreneurship, opportunities for local suppliers, market access and improved quality of life.

African Alliance Partner S’thofeni Ginindza reaffirmed the organisation’s determination to keep moving forward and remain committed to contributing to Eswatini’s development ambitions.

The new commercial hub is expected to create opportunities not only for retailers but also for employees, local suppliers, small businesses and enterprises operating throughout the value chain.

The opening comes as Malkerns continues to grow, positioning Parkview as an important addition to the community’s commercial landscape. The first 200 customers entering the new Pick n Pay store were also set to receive a free cupcake as part of the opening celebration.

Malkerns Parkview therefore represents more than a new shopping destination. It signals continued private-sector confidence, expanded economic activity and a growing range of opportunities for the Malkerns community.



Pick n Pay Eswatini

PRO MEDIA NEWS — INFORMING. INSPIRING. EMPOWERING.

03/09/2026

ESWATINI’S GREEN INNOVATION RACE BEGINS AS PACHIPANDA CHALLENGE 2026 LAUNCHES

MTN Eswatini and WWF open a new platform for young innovators to turn environmental challenges into sustainable business solutions

By Pro-Media Journalist

EZULWINI, 3 SEPTEMBER 2026 — Eswatini has officially entered the Africa PachiPanda Challenge 2026, with MTN Eswatini and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) launching the initiative on Thursday at the Happy Valley Hotel in Ezulwini to give young people and youth-led businesses an opportunity to develop technology-driven solutions to the country’s pressing environmental challenges.

The launch was officiated by Acting Minister for Information, Communications and Technology, Hon. Sikhumbuzo Dlamini, who used the occasion to challenge young Emaswati to turn creativity, technology and entrepreneurship into practical solutions that can strengthen the Kingdom’s environmental resilience and create new economic opportunities.

The Africa PachiPanda Challenge is a joint MTN Eswatini and WWF initiative aimed at identifying, nurturing and supporting young innovators developing solutions for environmental sustainability. MTN describes the programme as a platform for youth-led businesses to tackle local environmental challenges through innovation and entrepreneurship.

FROM ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS TO BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

The Eswatini edition focuses on challenges that directly affect communities, businesses and the country’s long-term development.

Among the priority areas are food security and climate-resilient agriculture, water security, restoration of natural ecosystems, sustainable energy and circular economy solutions.

The programme is designed not only to identify ideas, but also to help promising young innovators strengthen and develop their solutions so they can create measurable environmental, social and economic impact.

TECHNOLOGY AND THE GREEN ECONOMY

In his address, Sikhumbuzo Dlamini emphasised the importance of ensuring that Eswatini’s digital transformation agenda develops alongside the country’s transition towards a greener economy.

He highlighted the potential of technology, digital platforms, smart systems and data to help communities and businesses respond to environmental challenges while creating new opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship and employment.

He encouraged young people to look beyond identifying problems and instead develop practical, collaborative and testable solutions capable of producing meaningful change.

The Minister further called on young innovators from across the Kingdom to participate actively in the challenge, stressing the importance of youth creativity in building a greener, more resilient and prosperous Eswatini.

A PLATFORM FOR YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS

The challenge is open to individuals and teams residing in Eswatini, with participants required to be between 18 and 35 years old. Teams can have a maximum of three members, while youth-led SMEs with early-stage or idea-stage solutions are also eligible.

The programme places particular emphasis on solutions that can respond to environmental needs while demonstrating potential for sustainability, growth and wider community impact.

The initiative also connects environmental sustainability with entrepreneurship, recognising that young people can play a significant role in developing businesses around climate adaptation, renewable energy, waste management, water conservation, agriculture and ecosystem protection.

THE CHALLENGE AHEAD

According to MTN, the Eswatini programme will run through a structured process beginning with applications, followed by selection, incubation and pitching before the national winners are announced. The 2026 Eswatini timeline lists applications opening on 3 September, closing on 18 September, with the Top 20 announced on 2 October, followed by bootcamp activities and the Top 10 selection before National Pitch Day and the winner announcement on 27 October 2026.

The top performers will have an opportunity to advance within the wider Africa PachiPanda ecosystem, connecting Eswatini’s emerging innovators with a broader continental platform.

The launch therefore marks more than the beginning of another innovation competition. It places young Emaswati at the centre of a growing conversation around climate entrepreneurship, technology, environmental protection and sustainable economic development.

With applications now open, attention shifts to the country’s young innovators to identify the challenges affecting their communities and turn bold ideas into solutions capable of making a lasting difference.

PRO MEDIA NEWS — INFORMING. INSPIRING. EMPOWERING.

03/09/2026

The buy Eswatini launch at the green chamber currently happening at Mavuso Trade Centre