The Mpumalanga Department of Health has deployed full-time artisans to Rob Ferreira Hospital to fix plumbing failures and restore hot water, reports Lowvelder.

The hospital’s deterioration was formally documented during the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) oversight inspection on June 15. The commission’s findings vindicated long-standing complaints from whistle-blowers, patients, and their families regarding failing facilities and conditions that severely compromise patient dignity.

SAHRC exposes critical infrastructure failures

Detailing the shocking conditions, SAHRC provincial manager Erick Mokonyama said investigators found a surgical patient waiting on a bench for admission to Ward 3. Meanwhile, mothers in maternity wards were reportedly forced to leave their newborn babies unattended simply to find a working toilet.

Inspectors also uncovered broken, doorless toilets, continuously running taps, and wards completely devoid of hot water – a problem staff claimed had persisted for years. Compounding these issues, certain wards had as few as 10 blankets available, forcing families to bring their own bedding from home.

Department prioritises plumbing and hot water restoration

Responding to the crisis, Department of Health spokesperson Chris Nobela confirmed that repair work is actively under way.

“We have prioritised the restoration of hot water and plumbing to ensure that patients have access to hot water,” said Nobela, adding that the installation of external calorifiers would not disrupt ongoing patient care.

To ensure long-term maintenance, two full-time artisans – a plumber and an electrician – have been deployed to the hospital alongside on-site personnel from the Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport.

When questioned about delays in addressing the deteriorating conditions, Nobela did not offer a direct explanation, focusing instead on the corrective steps already taken. He also contested claims regarding a severe linen shortage, asserting that the hospital is adequately stocked and that patients who bring their own bedding do so by choice.

“I must also request members of the public to report anything that is broken to the hospital, and it will be attended to,” Nobela said. “If patients believe they have been mistreated or did not receive the required services, they should file formal complaints, and these will be dealt with. At this stage, we cannot respond to allegations that were made on social media.”

SAHRC to monitor ongoing progress

Welcoming the department’s intervention, Mokonyama expressed hope that the maintenance drive would be sustained beyond the current round of quick fixes.

“The commission will be monitoring the repairs to confirm that they align with the plan shared by the department to address the challenges raised in the complaint against the hospital,” he said.

“Patients deserve to receive healthcare in an environment that protects their dignity.”

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