The Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, together with the City of Ekurhuleni Mayor, Councillor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, MMC for Community Safety, Sizakele Masuku, and the Head of Department, Lesiba Malotana, have updated the public following the fire incident at Tembisa Hospital’s Accident and Emergency Unit.

The fire, which broke out on the night of April 19, led to the safe evacuation of patients from the unit to other wards within the hospital.

During a visit to the hospital, MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko assessed the extent of the damage and received a detailed report from the emergency response team on site.

Also read: Tembisa Hospital on divert after emergency unit fire

At this stage, the cause of the fire remains unknown. Multiple investigations have been launched by various institutions in line with legal and procedural requirements.

The Accident and Emergency Unit remains closed until the area is restored and the prohibition notice is officially lifted.

However, a business continuity plan has been activated to ensure the hospital continues to function effectively despite the disruption.

Tembisa Hospital is currently on ambulance divert, meaning it will not be accepting emergency ambulance patients.

Also read: Tembisa Hospital fire contained, services remain on scene

However, walk-in patients are still being seen, and critical services including care for acutely ill patients, maternal and child health, mental health, and chronic disease management, will continue at designated areas within the facility.

MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko expressed her gratitude to the emergency and hospital teams who have worked tirelessly since the incident.

She reassured the community that the damaged unit will be restored.

“We understand the distress that this incident may have caused to staff, patients and their families.

“We will restore the damaged unit. We will continue caring for our patients, and we will continue communicating openly and honestly as we recover,” she said.

@kemptonexpress April 19, 2025 – A fire has broken out at Tembisa Hospital, located on Flint Mazibuko Street in Tembisa. Emergency services are currently on the scene. Members of the public are urged to avoid the area to allow responders space to operate and to use alternative routes until the situation is under control and the scene has been cleared. Updates will follow as more information becomes available. #localnews #Thembisa #Fire #TiktokNews #cityofekurhuleni #emergencyservices #TembisaHospital ♬ original sound – KemptonExpress