By Bongiwe Dlamini

MBABANE: Behind every road crash survivor is a story of resilience, courage, and unwavering support. 

Often, that story includes the dedication of a caregiver, an individual who steps in to assist survivors navigate the challenging road to recovery. 

At SMVAF, caregivers play a vital role in ensuring that survivors regain their physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.

Annually, SMVAF hosts the Caregivers Day to honour these silent champions. That is over and above the Fund giving a regular allowance and support to the caregivers in appreciation of their work, and to incentivise them.

The Caregivers Day brings together caregivers from across Eswatini to celebrate their efforts and recognise their invaluable contributions.

“These caregivers are the unsung heroes of our mission. They help our claimants not just recover but thrive, giving them the confidence to reclaim their lives after life-altering accidents,” says Phindile Jele-Mthethwa, the Client Services Manager at SMVAF.

Caregivers are more than just helpers; they are the eyes and ears of SMVAF’s case management efforts. They ensure that survivors take their medication, prevent complications like bed sores, and provide the emotional support necessary for effective rehabilitation.

“In the Seamless Strategy 2020/24, we work closely with the caregivers because they are integral to our success,” explains Ngeti Shongwe, SMVAF’s Case Management Manager. “Where necessary, we provide allowances to cushion them for their time, acknowledging their role in managing the well-being of the claimant.”

Shongwe adds that caregivers’ insights are crucial in ensuring treatments are followed and complications are avoided. “Without their support, many survivors would face delayed or disrupted rehabilitation,” she says.

Caregivers Day is more than just a celebration, it’s a platform for sharing experiences and learning.

In this year’s event, psychologist-led sessions to address the emotional toll of caregiving were held. Mental health specialist Sabelo Khumalo likened the work of caregivers to piecing together broken glass.

“Road crash survivors are often both physically and emotionally shattered. Caregivers bear a significant burden, and it’s crucial they prioritise their own mental health to continue providing the support survivors need,” Khumalo says.

Certificates and tokens of appreciation were presented to the caregivers, a symbolic gesture of SMVAF’s gratitude. CEO David Mfanimpela Myeni also acknowledged the caregivers’ vital role, urging them to take care of themselves while continuing their critical work. “You restore hope and dignity to those who have lost so much,” he said.

The impact of caregivers extends beyond the individual survivors to the broader community. In cases involving school-going road crash survivors, SMVAF collaborates with educators to ensure that students’ new needs are met. This includes counselling for teachers and classmates, adapting learning environments, or transferring pupils to special needs schools.

“Our case management team ensures that survivors, particularly children, receive the lifelong treatment and support they need,” says Sam Mzileni, the Corporate Services Executive at SMVAF.

“As the Fund continues its journey under the Seamless Strategy, the organisation remains committed to supporting caregivers and survivors alike. By fostering collaboration, recognising contributions, and addressing mental health, SMVAF is setting the stage for a safer and more compassionate Eswatini.”

“Caregivers embody the spirit of resilience. Their dedication inspires us to keep striving for better outcomes for road accident survivors. Together, we can turn tragedy into triumph,” says Mzileni.