UN Staff Meet Virtually for the Monthly Town Hall Meeting

The meeting was chaired by the UNRC, Ms. Nathalie Ndongo-Seh, and discussed at length the COVID-19 situation in the country. The UNRC noted the significant increase in the number of confirmed cases as of late, highlighting the fact that Eswatini had now reached community spread of the virus, which was cause for alarm. As of the date of the Town Hall Meeting, the country had registered 91 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 1 death.

Ms. Ndongo-Seh updated staff on the measures that had been taken in the country including the introduction of the lockdown in March and its reinforcement at the end of April. She noted that UN staff had been given permission by the Government to move about for the performance of their official duties only, with UN identification provided.

She also made mention of the generous donation of USD 2.4 million that had been made available by the UN in Eswatini through the restructuring of its programs and redirecting of funds, towards the COVID-19 response.

She highlighted the donation of PPE by UNFPA worth a total of E220 000 as well as the presentation by the UN of the consignment of PPE donated by the Jack Ma Foundation.

The UNRC went on to inform the meeting of the involvement of the UN in the COVID-19 response, noting that UN Agencies were involved in the training of medical workers, procurement of medical equipment, carrying out a socio-economic impact analysis on the country as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the public awareness campaign. She added that the UN featured very prominently in all working groups, committees and sub-committees that had been established for the purposes of the COVID-19 response.

Ms. Ndongo-Seh noted the distribution of reusable masks to all UN staff and their dependents, and also took the opportunity to encourage all staff to practice stringent health and safety measures to ensure the wellbeing of them and their families.

She also encouraged all staff to work together during this difficult time, emphasizing the fact that never has the “Delivering as One” approach been as important as it is now in trying to overcome the COVID-19 crisis.