IDC donates R10 million toward Madiba’s dream
PARKTOWN – IDC donates R10 million toward the Nelson Mandela Children's Hospital; more is needed to complete the hospital.
The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) donated R10 million on 16 February toward the building of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital (NMCHT).
Chief executive officer for the Trust, Sibongile Mkhabela said in a media statement that the hard work of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital Trust and compassion of the all the donors, both locally and abroad, have thus far raised R790 million, including the donation from IDC. Mkhabela pointed out that the construction of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital in Parktown started in April last year and they wanted to open the hospital’s doors by the first week of December. The state-of-the-art hospital will have a specialised pediatric facility that will provide children from the SADC region with quality medical services – irrespective of their economic status.
“The hospital is the biggest of its kind, to be built solely on the generosity of the world’s citizens: ordinary South Africans, global philanthropists, corporate institutions and even children themselves, as part of the For Kids by Kids initiative, have given donations. Making this hospital is a unique partnership between public sector, the private sector and civil society,” Mkhabela added.
She further explained that the donation was part of the IDC’s contribution toward realising Mandela’s legacy to build a hospital dedicated to children. IDC divisional executive for corporate affairs Zama Luthuli said that the corporation was excited to be associated with the project, particularly given the plight of children.
“Supporting the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital is particularly important because of its reach and emphasis on specialised services for children that would strengthen existing services and provide new opportunities,” said Luthuli.
“Since its inception, the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital Trust received support from donors, partners and various stakeholders who took it upon themselves to make sure that this, a living statue for Madiba, is built. And as we look toward its completion, we thank the IDC for partnering with us in getting us closer to finishing this building.” said Mkhabela. She urged residents to continue supporting the hospital and with the hospital starting to train doctors in June, she urged encouraged members of the public to help contribute to Madiba’s dream by SMSing “Gift” to 40301 to donate R20 towards the hospital.
Details: Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital, 011 274 5600
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