The Emalahleni community is in mourning after Ayanda Mnisi (35), a devoted mother and beloved community member, passed away following a courageous fight against cancer. A brain tumor that later developed into aggressive cancer tested her strength for years, yet Ayanda faced each challenge with quiet courage and grace.

Family remembers a brave and loving soul

“She passed away at Witbank Tertiary Hospital on February 13.” Lindo Mnisi, speaking on behalf of the family. “The cancer was very painful, and Ayanda struggled a lot. We are heartbroken but proud of how brave she was. Her spirit will continue to inspire us every day.”

Ayanda underwent tumor surgery at Witbank Tertiary Hospital more than five months before her passing and was later referred to Steve Biko Academic Hospital for specialized care.
Her recovery was complicated by post-operative issues.

Sizwe Sibande of the Enough is Enough organization said, “The wound was deteriorating. Ayanda informed us that she was discharged despite the poor condition of the wound and the way she was treated by medical staff.” He added, “She later developed a stroke in another part of her body, yet the hospital still sent her home.”

The community demands accountability

These challenges prompted community members and Enough is Enough activists to march to Witbank Tertiary Hospital on January 5, demanding urgent medical attention and accountability.

“This hospital has become a place of mourning for our community,” said Pule Khoza, Secretary of Enough is Enough. “We remember a case where a pregnant woman received inadequate care, lost her unborn baby, and was forced to carry the deceased foetus for eight hours. The question is, will this hospital change, or will more lives be lost?”

Throughout her illness, Ayanda was surrounded by the love of her family and the Enough is Enough community forum, which continues to support them.

“We had adopted Ayanda as part of our family,” said Khoza. “Even now, we are still in hand with the family, supporting them through this difficult time.”

In her memory, the family is urging others to prioritise their health and take their wellbeing seriously.

“People must take care of themselves, seek medical attention early, and advocate for their health,” said Mnisi.

MEC Manzini visited Witbank Hospital following the circulation of a video involving a patient who received treatment at the facility.The purpose of the visit was to investigate the matter and to provide support to both the patient & healthcare workers.https://t.co/umGhhTmvZk pic.twitter.com/0X0RxcH2Ij

— Mpumalanga Health (@MpuHealth1) January 7, 2026

Provincial health response

According to the Mpumalanga Department of Health press release, MEC Sasekani Manzini visited Witbank Tertiary Hospital on January 7 after a viral video highlighted Ayanda’s condition. The visit aimed to investigate her care and support for both the patient and hospital staff.
The MEC met with hospital management, reviewed her treatment, and spoke with Ayanda to assess her well-being.

The press release noted she was receiving ongoing treatment, had undergone multiple procedures, and was supported by doctors, nurses, and her family. Ayanda was in high spirits and expressed appreciation for the care she was receiving.

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