Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital opens Breast Cancer Imaging Unit
Cricket South Africa assisted the hospital through the Pink ODI Fund.
To mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Gauteng Department of Health on October 9 unveiled the newly renovated Breast Cancer Imaging Unit at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital.
The groundbreaking initiative was successful through a partnership with Cricket South Africa and Lions Cricket via the Pink ODI Fund. It marked a significant step in expanding access to early detection and specialist cancer care across the province.
Cricket South Africa’s President, Rihan Richards, noted that cricket must be a vessel for something greater and represent a sense of hope that uplifts communities.
“Our involvement in this life-changing initiative goes beyond corporate social investment, to us this is a social contract, a moral duty to stand with our communities and to confirm that our presence adds to something greater than the sport of cricket,” he said.
“When the cricketers take the field in pink, they’re not only for pride or for victory but are playing for purpose.”
The upgraded facility is equipped with cutting-edge mammogram machines, 3D tomographic imaging, contrast mammography, biopsy systems, breast MRI, and surgical marker placement tools, ensuring precise diagnosis and timely care.
The unit will serve both new referrals and follow-up patients across Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, West Rand, and neighbouring provinces.
MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, added that new hope for thousands of women in Gauteng and beyond was being unveiled.
“Every story is unique. Every journey mattered, and today we say to every woman, your journey counts, your health matters, and you deserve access to the very best care.”
Also read: Hope is a Verb 2025 brings communities together to build a better future
Cricket South Africa has contributed more than R2.7m towards the mammogram unit’s revamping, equipment, patient comforts, and research support.
Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital CEO, Gladys Bogoshi, thanked Cricket South Africa and its partners.
“I am aware that Cricket SA has partners who are rallying behind it to ensure that our partnership grows and makes it easy for public hospitals to deliver quality care that patients deserve,” she said.
“Cricket SA’s partnership with us has helped me tick several boxes the hospital had, and thank you for that.”
Cricket South Africa’s chief of marketing, Wanele Mngomezulu, explained that Pink Day was a One-Day International cricket match dedicated to raising awareness and funds for breast cancer, where the team and fans wore pink.
Follow us on our WhatsApp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!
