By Musa Mdluli

MBABANE:The Board of Trustees of Eswatini Med has announced that Peter ‘Samora’ Simelane, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), will retire at the end of May 2026 after more than thirty (30) years of extraordinary service. 

In a statement sent to this Swaziland News on Tuesday afternoon, Samuel ‘Sammy’ Dlamini, the Board Chairperson said, throughout his tenure, Simelane demonstrated combined visionary leadership with personal commitment, shaping Eswatini Med into a cornerstone of national healthcare and a source of pride for the Kingdom of Eswatini.

“Since 1993, Simelane has positioned the organisation as more than medical aid scheme; he continues to build it as a platform for national resilience and accessible, high-quality healthcare. Under his guidance, the organisation expands specialist services, strengthens patient-centred care, and introduces systems and standards that align with international best practice. A signature achievement is the Ezulwini Private Hospital, officially named Sitselo Semphilo (the Fruit of Life) by His Majesty King Mswati III in 2023. The hospital, opened in 2022, and continues to deliver world-class healthcare in Eswatini. In 2024, it become the first hospital in the country to earn COHSASA accreditation, meeting over 4,000 internationally recognised standards. Simelane’s leadership is defined as much by human connection as by institutional milestones. He celebrates staff achievements, supports frontline teams, and ensures innovation never overshadows compassion,” said the Board Chairperson.

On another note, the Board Chairperson said, Simelane modernized the belief that healthcare is ultimately about the people.

“Simelane also invested in community and national development. As President of the Eswatini Football Association, he promotes youth development and governance. Through EswatiniMed’s social investment initiatives, Simelane ensures health services reach schools and underserved communities, reinforcing his conviction that care extends beyond hospital walls. Even in challenging moments, Simelane continues to demonstrate resilience and integrity. He navigates scrutiny and organizational pressures with unwavering commitment to governance and member

value, protecting both EswatiniMed and its long-term mission,” he said.

Dlamini said as the Principal Officer approaches retirement, he leaves a legacy of a stronger, future-ready EswatiniMed, a world-class hospital serving the Kingdom, and a healthcare system capable of inspiring confidence at home and abroad. 

“The Board of Trustees, members, and wider community honour his service, recognising that his impact will endure for generations to come,” he said.