The Mpumalanga MEC for health, Sasekani Manzini, the head of the Department of Health, Dr Lucas Ndhlovu, the City of Mbombela’s executive mayor, Cllr Sibongile Makushe-Mazibuko, some SAPS members and Themba Hospital’s board members attended a community engagement meeting at the town’s community hall on August 13.
The purpose of this meeting was to conduct a community dialogue regarding the recent disruption of healthcare services by some community members.
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Manzini pleaded with everyone not to take part in any disruptive activities, whether at a clinic or hospital. “It is unacceptable and it threatens the safety and security of everyone. It can be health workers, patients and other stakeholders who may be visiting the facility for various reasons.”
This meeting gave the community members the opportunity to voice their concerns and views regarding the provision of healthcare services and other administrative issues.
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“We are very pleased to know that everyone here wants the facility to be operational and ready to provide healthcare services to our people. It is your responsibility to safeguard these facilities and utilise them for your benefit,” said Manzini.
Makushe-Mazibuko, who facilitated the discussions throughout the meeting, suggested another meeting be held at a later date when feedback of the interventions would be presented to the community.