Ezulwini— Through the FNB Eswatini, via the FNB Eswatini employee volunteer programme’s partnership with Pick n Pay Lojaf, E80,000 worth of newborn clothing and maternity essentials were donated in 11 public health facilities across the country today.
The donation forms part of FNB Eswatini’s 30 Acts of Help Campaign, launched in September to mark the bank’s 30th anniversary of operating in Eswatini.
The FNB Eswatini staff identified 30 philanthropic issues that require actions that not only directly address community needs but also boost livelihoods.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, the FNB Eswatini Chief Executive Officer representative, Dr. Mncedzi Ngomane, said the initiative was motivated by the realities faced by many mothers and newborns, particularly during the critical early days after birth.
“We understand that, for most mothers and newborns, the first few days and months after birth can be extremely challenging due to limited resources,” Ngomane said. “These challenges often prevent families from accessing proper clothing and baby essentials that support early development.”
Underscoring the importance of warmth, Ngomane added by saying that without proper clothing, newborns may be exposed to various health risks while their mothers remain in constant worry and anxiety, which is not good for both baby and mother.
The E80,000 donation is yet to be distributed equally among the Mbabane Government Hospital, RFM Hospital, Hlathikhulu Government Hospital, Nhlangano Health Centre, Sithobela Health Centre, Pigg’s Peak Government Hospital, Matsanjeni Health Centre, Dvokolwako Health Centre, Mankayane Government Hospital, Good Shepherd Hospital, and Mkhuzweni Health Centre (Buhleni).
“With this act of help, we wanted to meet both mother and newborn, particularly those from underprivileged communities, exactly at their point of need,” Ngomane said.
He said this initiative ties well with the bank’s long-standing commitment to offering “HELP that makes a difference, changes lives, and supports the growth of our people.”
Ngomane thanked Pick ‘n Pay Lojaf for their contribution. They provided a substantial amount of maternity items to the consignment.
He said Pick n Pay Lojaf was immediately drawn to the idea and committed to the partnership. Ngomane said more collaboration is needed to overcome the country’s challenges and achieve the sustainable development it desires. Ngomane also thanked the FNB Eswatini staff for their contributions.
Pick n Pay Gables store manager, Linda Zwane, said they took part in the initiative because it reflects a shared commitment to compassion, dignity, and community care during the festive season.
Meanwhile, Dr. Velephi Okello, the director of health services, appreciated the presents, stating that they demonstrate FNB Eswatini’s true dedication to the community. She stated that caring for and supporting patients and others in need of health services is key to the country’s health mandate.
Discussion about this post