Mbabane – The Ministry of Health has called for the fight against breast cancer to continue throughout the year, with Emaswati urged to make screening and early detection part of their routine.
The call was made yesterday during the launch of Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2026 at Phocweni Military Barracks.
Health Minister Mduduzi Matsebula said the campaign should go beyond October, highlighting the need for regular screening, early detection and access to care for people affected by breast cancer.
The launch was attended by representatives from the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force, Manzini Regional Administration, the United States Embassy, World Health Organisation and the Eswatini Breast and Cervical Cancer Network, among others.
A key feature of the event was the signing of the 365 Commitment, a pledge to keep the fight against breast cancer active every day of the year.
The event also included a candle-lighting ceremony in honour of breast cancer survivors, people currently battling the disease and those who have died from its complications.
Minister Matsebula said the first action under this year’s campaign was “Screen”, encouraging people to know their bodies, recognise unusual changes and seek medical attention promptly.
He said early detection could make a difference in the management of breast cancer.
The second action was “Protect”, which he said also meant ensuring that people in rural and underserved communities were not left behind.
According to the Minister, protection should extend beyond awareness and screening to diagnosis, treatment, follow-up care and psychosocial support.
The campaign is being held under the theme “Together, we stand behind the call of Mission 365: Screen. Protect. Prevail. Defend.”
The launch also served as a tribute to breast cancer survivors and to friends, relatives and colleagues who have lost their lives to complications associated with the disease.
Discussion about this post