Health MEC says Tembisa Hospital still operational after fire, confirms no injuries [PICS]

Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko confirmed that no lives were lost and no injuries were reported in the fire that broke out at Tembisa Hospital’s accident and emergency unit on Saturday evening.

Speaking during a media briefing at the hospital on Sunday, the MEC said emergency services and hospital management ensured the safe evacuation of patients and staff.

“Thanks to the immediate and coordinated efforts of the response teams, patients were safely evacuated to other areas within the hospital and to alternative facilities when necessary,” she said.

ALSO READ: Patients evacuated as fire breaks out at Tembisa Hospital’s emergency unit (VIDEO)

81 patients relocated

Nkomo-Ralehoko said 81 patients were in the unit when the fire started. Two were moved to the intensive care unit (ICU), one to high care and four were discharged.

Seventeen patients were transferred to other hospitals – six to Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital, four to Edenvale Hospital, three to Steve Biko Academic Hospital and four to Tshwane District Hospital.

Fifty patients were admitted to other sections within Tembisa Hospital.

“About seven patients reportedly walked out of the hospital when they noticed the fire,” said Nkomo-Ralehoko.

“All staff members on duty, 14 nurses, six doctors and six security officers, have been accounted for and none were harmed.”

ALSO READ: Gauteng Health and EMS on high alert for Easter flood emergencies

Tembisa Hospital not closed

The MEC dismissed claims circulating on social media that Tembisa Hospital has been closed.

“The hospital is open and operating. Other wards were not affected by the fire and continue to function normally,” she stated.

However, the emergency unit remains shut.

According to the MEC, a business continuity plan is in place.

“The hospital remains on divert for ambulances, but it will still accept walk-in emergency cases.

“Anyone who walks in will be seen and stabilised. If needed, they will then be redirected to an appropriate facility,” she clarified.

ALSO READ: Gauteng Health slams ‘misleading’ reports on hospital security costs

Investigations into fire

The cause of the fire remains unknown. Investigations are ongoing, including probes by police forensic investigators, the Department of Employment and Labour, the City of Ekurhuleni Fire Department, and internal departmental teams.

“The firefighting equipment was compliant and maintained as recently as 2026. The Department of Infrastructure Development also confirmed maintenance records for the fire detection systems,” Nkomo-Ralehoko added.

Families can visit patients

The MEC also announced that family visits resumed on Sunday afternoon.

“As of [2pm], families were able to see their loved ones. We activated a helpline for inquiries, 011 923 2000 or 011 923 2165,” she said.

“We understand the impact this disaster may have had on staff, patients and families. We will restore the damaged unit, continue to care for our patients, and communicate transparently as we move forward.”

NOW READ: Health department addresses Tshwane clinic ‘medicine shortages’