After years of inadequate healthcare due to frequent power shortages, Sidvokodvo Clinic has found new life through a solar transition sponsored by UNICEF and USAID. On a recent visit, UNICEF officials heard firsthand from clinic staff about the profound impact this transition has had on their operations and patient care.
A Journey Toward Sustainable Healthcare Delivery
In a serene yet underserved part of the Manzini region in Eswatini stands Sidvokodvo Clinic, a beacon of hope and innovation. Though operational for just two years, the clinic has already emerged as a model for sustainable healthcare delivery. This pioneering solar initiative is a partnership between the Ministry of Health (MOH), USAID, and UNICEF.
Sidvokodvo Clinic in Eswatini ensures reliable healthcare with solar power, securing vital vaccine storage and services.
A recent UNICEF visit to Sidvokodvo Clinic highlighted a transformative story of community, resilience, and forward-thinking. Nestled amid scenic landscapes, the clinic has made significant strides in overcoming geographic and infrastructural challenges by integrating solar energy—an achievement made possible through crucial funding from USAID and UNICEF.
During the visit, Ms. Samkelisiwe Mzolo, a dedicated nurse at the clinic, shared the profound impact of this energy transition. “The introduction of solar panels has revolutionized our operations,” she explained. “We once faced frequent interruptions from power outages, but our patients now receive continuous and reliable medical services.”
This reliability is critical for maintaining the cold chain for essential vaccines, which were previously at risk during power cuts. “With stable solar power, we no longer risk losing vaccines to cold chain failure, as often happened before. This intervention has ensured community protection against vaccine-preventable diseases,” she added.
Cutting Energy Costs with Solar Transition
The broader implications of a stable power supply are immense. With reliable energy, Sidvokodvo Clinic plans to expand its healthcare services, including enhanced maternal and child health programs and comprehensive HIV prevention. “The stability not only enhances our capability but also broadens the scope of our care,” Ms. Mzolo noted.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) is actively monitoring the integration of solar energy and has noted significant reductions in traditional electricity use. “Our latest data shows a daily decrease in conventional energy consumption as solar energy becomes more integrated into our healthcare facilities,” said Mr. Leonard Zwane, Head of the Biomedical Unit at MOH. This transition to renewable energy not only promotes sustainability but also cuts electricity costs. These savings can be reallocated to further improve healthcare delivery.
Challenges and Progress
While the clinic’s journey shows significant progress, a continued focus is needed on several key areas. Standardization is crucial to ensure consistency in solar technologies across various facilities, which enhances maintenance and operational efficiency.
Building capacity is also essential, giving Ministry of Health staff and other stakeholders the skills to manage and maintain these solar systems for long-term sustainability.
At the same time, ongoing cost-effectiveness monitoring is needed to evaluate the financial and operational performance of the solar installations, justifying their expansion and optimizing their benefits.
The transformation at Sidvokodvo Clinic represents more than just a technological advancement; it symbolizes a move toward a sustainable healthcare system dedicated to the well-being of the Eswatini community. This project showcases the remarkable achievements possible when innovation is paired with dedicated collaboration.
Eswatini’s Solar Energy Potential
Despite its impressive topography and climate, Eswatini relies heavily on imported electricity from South Africa, limiting its economic independence. Although electrification rates are high, the country fell short of its 100% target set for 2022. To meet its goals and reduce costs, the nation is turning to solar energy, committing to the SE4ALL initiative to increase renewable energy to 50% by 2030. This aligns with an IRENA-supported plan to achieve these aims by 2034. To stimulate growth in the private PV sector, solar panels and batteries are also exempt from import duties.
The government is encouraging solar adoption for residential and commercial buildings, while falling PV cell prices are promoting off-grid solutions and reducing reliance on imports.
Larger projects like the Eswatini Solar-Storage Project and the Lavumisa Solar PV Plant are increasing electricity access, creating jobs, and ensuring sustainable energy for public facilities.
The journey at Sidvokodvo Clinic is a microcosm of Eswatini’s broader energy transformation. It illustrates how solar power can not only enhance healthcare but also drive economic and social development. Through continued collaboration, innovation, and commitment, Eswatini is lighting the path to a brighter, more sustainable future.
