Statement of the UN Resident Coordinator at the Launch of the Coronavirus Sensitization and Awareness Campaign

HRH Prince Gija, the Manzini Regional Administrator

HRH Prince Tsandzile, the Hhohho Regional Administrator

Honourable Deputy Prime Minister

Chief Executive Officers representing Mbabane, Ezulwini, Matsapha and Manzini municipalities

Chief Executive Officer NDMA, Russel Dlamini

Director, CANGO

Director, NERCHA

Representatives of the media,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Good morning to all,

As you may recall, on 30 January 2020, the Director-General of WHO declared the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak a public health emergency of international concern under the International Health Regulations. On 11 March, COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic. It has since been engulfing the world with 3.85 million cases worldwide and 270,000 deaths to date. The UN Secretary-General, Mr António Guterres, has declared that the pandemic is a call-to-action for everyone, everywhere and a call for responsibility and solidarity as nations and people unite. This is why we are here today.

The Kingdom of Eswatini has seen a dramatic rise in confirmed coronavirus cases, with 172 cases and two (2) deaths as of the 9th of May. As our nation continues to fight this unprecedented health emergency in human history, solidarity, innovative partnerships, excellent coordination, prevention, strong communication, community engagement and social mobilization in rural and urban areas are key to preventing any further spread and the devastation of the virus.

Your Royal Highnesses,

Excellencies,

The COVID-19 Sensitization and Awareness Campaign that is officially launched today is being implemented by the Regional Task Forces in partnership with NDMA, CANGO, NERCHA, the Manzini, Matsapha, Ezulwni and Mbabane municipalities, as well as many other partners including the private sector and the media, with support from the United Nations in Eswatini. The solidarity and partnership already evident in the implementation of this campaign will help all us to reach those who have inadvertently been left behind or who may be at risk to be left behind including the elderly, people with disabilities, PLHIV, people in rural areas.

The campaign was conceived, planned and is being implemented thanks to the vision and strong support of His Excellency the Prime Minister and the Cabinet; the excellent leadership, sound guidance and continued encouragements of His Excellency Deputy Prime Minister; as well as the drive, dynamism and critical efforts already deployed in the regions by our hands-on Regional Administrators  His Royal Highness Prince Gija  in Manzini  and Her Royal Highness Princess Tsandzile in Hhohho.

It goes without saying that the campaign could not take place without the support of the CEO NDMA, Russell Dlamini and his dedicated NDMA team; the strong partnership with the National Risk Communication sub-committee led by Mr. Mbongeni Mbingo,  the dedication of regional teams and volunteers, who have agreed to bravely and selflessly go door-to-door to address individuals and communities to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Eswatini.

Your Royal Highnesses,

Excellency,

This Coronavirus Sensitization and Awareness Campaign is building up and adding to on-going efforts aimed at sustaining critical messaging to ensure that every liSwati is reached to protect themselves and their families so that we can save the lives and livelihoods in this beautiful nation.

In this campaign, we are working closely with the media and all partners to sensitize the people of Eswatini through mass media, digital media and community engagement in urban and peri-urban areas considered to be COVID-19 hotspots in Manzini, Matsapha, Mbabane and Ezulwini. In both regions, we have noted the excellent leadership of both our Regional Administrators in leading multisectoral partners in carrying out public awareness and community engagement campaigns. Last week, Manzini began sensitization of community leaderships at Tinkhundla level. I am advised three Tinkhundla were reached in one day last week and that four more will be reached this week. This is commendable.

As the UN family in Eswatini, we are honored to be in solidarity with the regional teams. At the end today, we would have supported the training of a total 80 volunteers to be deployed to the regions to enhance the community engagement work in areas considered to be hotspots. Let me take this opportunity to express appreciation to the Ministry of Health and World Health Organization who starting the trainings with 45 volunteers last week and will be training an additional 35 today after this launch. Our volunteers are female and male, of a wide range of ages, backgrounds and some have some disability. It is wonderful to witness their eagerness and commitment as they prepare to enter the field: we wish them well and are here to support them every step of the way while ensuring that they are themselves adequately protected from COVID-19 infection.

The UN in Eswatini will continue to support the campaign by providing transport, megaphones, reusable facemasks, and information materials. With all partners, we are determined to make a significant difference in the numbers of COVID-19 cases.

Each and every one of you is vital in Eswatini’s battle against COVID-19 and in Eswatini’s recovery from the pandemic: do not underestimate your role. Let us continue to stand together, knowing that we will win this fight. Thank you again for being a part of this significant step towards victory.

On the behalf of the UN family, my sincerest gratitude is extended to you all for being here today.

I thank you.