MBABANE – Taiwan has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Eswatini’s healthcare efforts through collaboration with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders in the fight against diabetes.
This was highlighted during a World Diabetes Day health campaign held at Siphocosini Constituency Centre outside Mbabane, where residents were encouraged to take preventive measures against the chronic condition.
The campaign was hosted by the Ministry of Health in partnership with the Embassy of Taiwan and other stakeholders. It brought together government representatives, health practitioners and members of the community to raise awareness about diabetes and the importance of early detection.
The 2026 World Diabetes Day theme is “Early action on diabetes.”
The theme covers the 2026.
Among the speakers was Taiwan’s Ambassador to Eswatini, His Excellency Ching-Lin Tsuei, who said his country was pleased to work with the kingdom in strengthening efforts to prevent and manage chronic diseases.
He said the growing importance of addressing non-communicable diseases made cooperation between countries and local institutions particularly necessary.
Tsuei expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Health and local partners for their contribution to the initiative, noting that public health interventions should not only be considered when people fall ill.
“We do not have to wait to become sick before we start taking care of our health,” he said.
The ambassador said Taiwan was pleased to participate in the organised health campaigns and thanked the organisations involved for joining hands in promoting better health among communities.
Also addressing the gathering was Minister of Health Mduduzi Matsebula, who is also the Member of Parliament for Siphocosini Constituency.
Matsebula described World Diabetes Day as an important occasion for reminding people about the need to look after their health and understand the dangers associated with poorly managed diabetes.
He cautioned that diabetes could lead to other health complications if patients did not receive appropriate care and encouraged residents to make changes to their everyday routines.
The minister particularly emphasised physical activity, suggesting that people should occasionally leave their vehicles behind and walk instead.
He also called on residents to reduce their consumption of alcoholic beverages and other drinks, while urging smokers to avoid cigarettes.
Matsebula said regular medical examinations were equally important because they enabled health professionals to identify conditions early and provide treatment before complications developed.
He challenged Siphocosini residents to become an example in the prevention of diabetes, saying the constituency should demonstrate a commitment to healthier living.
The minister welcomed the decision to host the campaign in his constituency and indicated that he would also participate in activities at the medical stalls established at the centre.
The event provided an opportunity for members of the public to engage with health services and receive information on disease prevention.
World Diabetes Day is observed annually on November 14. It is an international awareness day dedicated to diabetes, highlighting the importance of prevention, diagnosis, treatment and access to appropriate healthcare.
