Gauteng Health Launches Second Surgical Marathon on Mandela Day

The initiative, which began in 2023, aims to make a significant difference in the lives of patients by addressing the backlog of surgical procedures in the province.

In celebration of Mandela Day, the Gauteng Department of Health is launching the second edition of its Surgical Marathon initiative to honour the legacy of Nelson Mandela. The initiative, which began in 2023, aims to make a significant difference in the lives of patients by addressing the backlog of surgical procedures in the province.

Background and Success of the Initiative

The inaugural Surgical Marathon was launched last year to tackle a historical backlog of 37,000 surgeries that had accumulated over time. Through the efforts of 30 participating hospitals, the department successfully cleared the backlog by the end of the 2023/2024 financial year, benefiting thousands of patients.

Focus of the 2024 Surgical Marathon

The 2024 edition of the Surgical Marathon will focus on expediting surgical operations for patients on waiting lists across key specialties. These include paediatrics, orthopaedics, neurology, urology, myomectomy, and breast surgeries.

Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, will join the team at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital today to oversee the ongoing surgical marathon and hand over donations to patients. The hospital is set to perform over 120 surgical procedures across various specialties, with other facilities across the province also participating in the marathon.

Aligning with Mandela Day Theme

"In alignment with the 2024 Nelson Mandela Day theme, 'It's still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity,' which signifies the importance of taking action to end poverty and inequality, the Gauteng Department of Health recognises that change happens when individuals and the collective take meaningful steps to impact the lives of others," the department said in a statement.

Significance of Mandela Day

Mandela International Day is celebrated annually on July 18 in honour of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, the first democratically elected President of South Africa. This day serves as a reminder of Mandela's enduring legacy and the importance of taking action to improve the lives of others.

Through the Surgical Marathon initiative, the Gauteng Department of Health aims to honour Madiba's memory by continuing to make a tangible difference in the lives of patients in need of surgical care.