A bold mission to eliminate cervical cancer in Eswatini is underway, and it's a race against time. This small African nation faces an enormous challenge, with one of the highest rates of cervical cancer globally. But here's where it gets controversial: the World Health Organization (WHO) believes it can be eliminated as a public health problem by 2030. And this is the part most people miss - it's not just about treatment, it's about empowering healthcare workers to become agents of change.
The Ministry of Health in Eswatini, with support from WHO, has embarked on an ambitious plan to build the capacity of nurses to perform life-saving procedures, with doctors providing mentorship. HPV testing and Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) services have been decentralized, bringing these crucial services closer to the communities that need them.
On October 24, 2025, a pivotal moment occurred. WHO, in collaboration with Eswatini's Ministry of Health, organized an intensive training program for healthcare workers. Over ten days, these dedicated professionals learned the skills to treat cervical precancerous lesions, a critical step in the Global Strategy to Eliminate Cervical Cancer. The training combined theory and hands-on practice, resulting in a powerful transformation of their technical knowledge and procedural skills.
Dr. Dille, a Surgical Oncologist and Regional Advisor on Cancer for WHO, emphasized the impact of the training: "It equipped healthcare workers with the ability to make informed decisions, align their practices with WHO guidelines, and ensure patient safety."
The training was a collaborative effort, bringing together WHO and Eswatini's National Cancer Control Unit. Over three clinical sites, healthcare workers, including doctors and nurses, learned about anatomy, screening techniques, pre-cancer treatment, infection control, and data management. More than 80 procedures were performed, clearing a backlog and demonstrating the immediate impact of the training.
Dr. Teluleko Maseko, the National Cervical Cancer Coordinator, highlighted the improved clinical decision-making and strengthened coordination between services as key outcomes. The training not only enhanced practical skills but also ensured better patient care and more consistent referral practices.
But the work doesn't end there. Discussions during the training emphasized the need for a National Cervical Cancer Task Force and the revision of national guidelines. These steps are crucial to sustaining progress and ensuring that the gains made through the training are institutionalized.
The Eswatini training is a success story, a testament to the power of collaboration and commitment. It shows that targeted capacity building can drive real change, even in high-burden settings. As Dr. Susan Tembo, WHO Eswatini Representative, stated, "This training exemplifies how partnership and technical excellence can drive progress towards elimination, even in the highest burden countries."
The journey continues, with trained participants now tasked with conducting a series of LEEP cases to achieve certification and integrating data into systems. The establishment of mentorship and quality assurance frameworks will further solidify the gains made.
So, as we celebrate this milestone, let's also remember the importance of ongoing support and collaboration. The fight against cervical cancer in Eswatini is a powerful example of how healthcare workers can be empowered to make a difference. It's a story of hope and progress, and a reminder that with the right tools and dedication, elimination is within reach.
