Eswatini Health Minister Distributes Christmas Gifts to Newborns at Mbabane Government Hospital

Christmas Joy for New Mothers and Babies

On Thursday, December 25, 2025, Eswatini's Minister of Health, Mduduzi Matsebula, extended a gesture of goodwill to mothers and their newborn babies at Mbabane Government Hospital. The Minister personally distributed Christmas gifts valued at over E80,000, an amount equivalent to approximately $4,772 USD, bringing festive cheer to the maternity ward. This initiative was part of a broader effort that saw gifts distributed across various hospitals nationwide on Christmas Day.

Collaborative Effort and Thoughtful Donations

The generous donation was made possible through a collaborative effort involving Her Majesty the Indlovukazi, FNB Eswatini (through its Employee Volunteers Programme), and Pick n Pay Lojaf. These partners came together to ensure that babies born during the festive season, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds, received essential items. The gift packages were carefully curated to support new mothers and their infants, including:

• Baby growers for 0–3 months and 3–6 months
• Receiving blankets
• Jumbo packs of disposable nappies

Pick n Pay Lojaf's contribution specifically focused on providing maternity essentials and comfort items for the mothers. This donation was part of FNB Eswatini's '30 Acts of Help Campaign,' launched to commemorate the bank's 30th anniversary in the country.

Impact and Official Statements

The gesture was met with heartfelt appreciation from the new mothers. Khetsiwe Zwane, mother to baby boy Wenzokuhle Praise Tsela, remarked, 'This is a beautiful way to welcome our babies. It truly shows love.' Bonisile Mabuza, mother to baby boy Yamihle Mashaya, added, 'These gifts help us so much, especially during Christmas when expenses are high.' Happiness Simelane, mother to Fezile Mlontjwa, also expressed her gratitude, stating, 'I am very grateful.'

Minister Matsebula conveyed his heartfelt wishes in a Christmas Day message, describing the births as a 'remarkable blessing' for the nation. He commended the dedication of healthcare workers and urged communities to support new mothers. The Ministry of Health remains committed to providing quality maternal and child healthcare, aiming to ensure every child receives the best possible start in life and to reduce maternal mortality rates.

Nationwide Reach of the Initiative

While the Minister's visit highlighted the distribution at Mbabane Government Hospital, the initiative's impact extended across Eswatini. The E80,000 worth of gifts were part of a larger distribution to 11 public health facilities across all four regions of the country, ensuring a wide reach for the festive kindness. This comprehensive approach underscores the commitment to community welfare during the holiday season.