Eswatini’s public health sector held a high-level dialogue with key suppliers on Friday, September 19, 2025, to tackle ongoing shortages of essential medicines and medical supplies. The session was hosted by the Eswatini Public Procurement Regulatory Agency (ESPPRA) in partnership with the Ministry of Health.
The meeting brought together officials from the Ministry of Health, including procurement and legal departments, alongside suppliers such as UPD, Afrox, and Sazi Farm. The dialogue was prompted by concerns raised in a letter from suppliers earlier this year about delays and challenges in the procurement process.
ESPPRA CEO Vumile Matabula opened the session by urging all parties to focus on constructive solutions. The Ministry of Health acknowledged delays in finalizing supplier contracts, with a representative, Mr. Makula, committing to improved collaboration to ensure consistent medical supplies.
The discussions also addressed the impact of framework contracts introduced in 2021, which have complicated procurement for many suppliers. Video presentations, including one depicting a street-level traffic controller, illustrated the urgent need for clear leadership and coordination. Matabula positioned ESPPRA as the neutral overseer, with both suppliers and the Ministry tasked with ensuring a reliable supply of medicines and equipment to hospitals nationwide.
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