Number of 24-hour service clinics decreases

LEBOWAKGOMO – The Limpopo Executive Council members presented their 2025/2026 budget votes on April 8 at the Lebowakgomo Legislature.

The tabling of the budget follows the State of the Province Address delivered in February and the Provincial Budget Speech in March.

Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba was the first to present the Office of the Premier’s budget vote. MECs for Education, Economic Development, Environment and Tourism as well as Health followed in tabling their budgets.

Speaking about primary healthcare during her budget vote tabling, Health MEC, Dieketseng Mashego informed that the number of clinics providing 24-hour services in Limpopo province has decreased from 217 to 211.

Mashego said the department has made a deliberate and consistent effort to improve access to health services by extending operating hours of healthcare facilities, however, the progress made is often undermined by unfortunate incidents, particularly criminal activities, which have led to the suspension of 24-hour services at some facilities.

“Just this past weekend, at Ga-Madiba Clinic, thugs stole the clear view fence. They held security guards at gunpoint, while they removed the installed fence meant to provide security at the facility. We once again call upon all community members to partner with us, along with law enforcement, to ensure that our facilities are protected. By working together, we can preserve the progress we’ve made and continue to offer accessible care to all,” said Mashego.

The MEC added that the department is currently doing an audit of all the primary healthcare facilities, starting with those offering 24-hour service, with the aim to standardise and improve security at the facilities, which will not only rely on human beings, but enhanced technology.

“Moreover, addressing the staff shortages is equally vital in ensuring that our healthcare services remain uninterrupted. The unexpected attrition of the nursing staff has further impacted our ability to maintain consistent 24-hour services. In response, the department has launched a recruitment drive to hire 305 professional nurses and 40 staff nurses, all of whom are set to begin their duties this month. These efforts are part of our ongoing commitment to ensure that our healthcare facilities are adequately staffed, enabling us to provide timely and continuous care,” stated Mashego.