DailySun
Mbombela (Nelspruit) – The Mmametlhake Hospital in Mpumalanga is currently experiencing a severe water shortage, raising alarms about the delivery of health services.
On Wednesday, January 8, 2025, the Public Servants Association (PSA) of South Africa voiced its “serious concern regarding the ongoing water shortage at Mmametlhake Hospital.”
The union pointed out that this water crisis has significantly impacted health service delivery and represents a serious violation of human rights.
“A consistent water supply is vital for infection control and the effective application of suitable health practices,” the PSA highlighted.
“The lack of water in this facility poses a grave risk to the health and safety of both patients and staff.”
The PSA noted that they have recently engaged in talks with the acting district manager and the acting CEO of Mmametlhake Hospital about the persistent water supply challenge.
“Unfortunately, the hospital management disclosed that they rely on the municipality for support, as the water supply falls under municipal jurisdiction,” the PSA remarked.
“While they committed to finding a resolution to this urgent issue, the strategies presented to the PSA do not provide a sustainable solution.
“The employer’s proposal included staff transporting water buckets from the Jojo tanks to their offices.”
The PSA rejected this proposal and called for the intervention of Occupational Health and Safety Inspectors from the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) to alleviate this burden from staff.
“Nevertheless, management has indicated that they are actively pursuing a permanent solution, with input from a team of specialists from the province anticipated by the end of the business day,” the PSA stated.
The union asserted that the Mpumalanga Department of Health “is consistently jeopardizing” the health and safety of employees by allowing them to work under unsafe conditions.
The PSA emphasized that they cannot endorse this situation, as it poses a serious risk not only to union members and staff but also to patients and the wider community due to potential health hazards.
The union expressed concern over the apparent lack of urgency regarding this matter, leaving their members and others exposed to these risks for the time being.
The union has indicated that it is now in discussions with the Department of Health Provincial Management.
“The involvement of DEL is crucial as this situation necessitates a comprehensive investigation, and if required, a prohibition order should be issued until the water crisis is resolved,” stated the PSA.
