Mbombela (Nelspruit) – Mmametlhake Hospital in Mpumalanga is currently experiencing a severe water scarcity, raising alarm about the delivery of health services.

On Wednesday, January 8, 2025, the Public Servants Association (PSA) of South Africa expressed its “deep concern over the ongoing water shortage at Mmametlhake Hospital.”

The union pointed out that this water crisis has significantly impacted health service provision and represents a serious violation of human rights.

“A dependable water supply is essential for infection control and the effective application of acceptable health standards,” the PSA stressed.

“The lack of water in this facility poses a substantial risk to the health and safety of both patients and staff.”

The PSA noted that they recently held discussions with the acting district manager and the acting CEO of Mmametlhake Hospital regarding the persistent water supply problem.

“Unfortunately, the hospital management disclosed that they rely on the municipality for support, as the water supply is under municipal jurisdiction,” the PSA reported.

“While they committed to finding a resolution to this crisis, the proposed plans brought forth to the PSA do not promise a sustainable solution.

“The management’s suggestion involved 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 advocate for the alleviation of this burden on staff.

“However, management has indicated that they are actively pursuing a permanent resolution, with experts from the province expected to arrive before the end of the business day,” the PSA reported.

The union asserted that the Mpumalanga Department of Health “is continually jeopardizing” the well-being of employees by requiring them to work under unsafe conditions.

According to the PSA, they cannot condone this situation, as it poses a severe risk not only to union members and staff but also to patients and the wider community due to the potential health hazards involved.

The union expressed dissatisfaction with the perceived lack of urgency related to this issue, leaving their members and others exposed to these threats in the interim.

The union has indicated that it is now in discussions with the Department of Health Provincial Management.

“The involvement of DEL is critical as this situation calls for a comprehensive investigation, and if necessary, a prohibition order should be issued until the water crisis is resolved,” stated the PSA.