25 Feb 2025

The Ministry of Health is committed to establishing a maternity wing in the Eastern area of Mogoditshane. However, Minister of Health Dr Stephen Modise said funding challenges hindered construction and the recruitment of necessary human resources. Responding to a question from Ms Helen Manyeneng of Mmopane/Metsimotlhabe during a parliamentary session on Monday, Dr Modise noted that patients in need of maternity services are currently referred to Lesirane Clinic, which falls within the catchment area. “While we aim to enhance healthcare services in the region, we must first address our funding constraints,” Dr Modise stated. The Minister also acknowledged the lack of resources to establish eye or dental wings at the clinic, although the ministry was exploring options for dental outreach services that would require essential equipment such as dental chairs and compressors. “Ideally, clinic specialists should focus on providing primary healthcare. Currently, a family physician assigned to Greater Mogoditshane is stationed at Nkoyaphiri Clinic,” he explained. Dr Modise emphasised ongoing efforts to optimise staffing to improve access to specialist services where feasible. He pointed out that the growing population around Mahlaku Clinic called for a 24-hour facility, but human resource limitations currently impede this capability. Fortunately, he said, the nearby Nkoyaphiri Clinic was equipped to accommodate patients requiring round-the-clock services.Additionally, the minister acknowledged the need for an ambulance in the area, but noted that resources were insufficient to allocate one to each clinic. “An ambulance was initially assigned to the clinic, but it was redirected following the donation of a new one by ZCC. Dr Modise assured that a shared ambulance was currently serving the Mmopane and Metsimotlhabe catchment areas, with priority for an ambulance assigned to the clinic when additional resources become available. He said that construction for staff housing was underway as they prepare for the site. Under the Transitional National Development Plan 2023-2025, the ministry is constructing six staff houses (2 x LA3 and 4 x LA2) for Mahlaku-Lekganyane Clinic, despite the absence of a maternity ward. Ms Manyeneng had asked the if the minister was aware of the significant population served by Mahlaku Clinic and its urgent need for specialised services, including a maternity wing, eye and dental facilities, along with specialists, ambulance, and staff housing. ENDS