The newly appointed MEC for Health in KwaZulu-Natal was, today, introduced to the management team of the department by the outgoing MEC, now Speaker of the Legislature, Ms Neliswa Peggy Nkonyeni.
The outgoing MEC highlighted the many challenges that the department has had to face including; the fight against extreme and multi drug resistant Tuberculosis (XDR and MDRTB),the training and appointment of nurses and doctors, distribution of medicines to clinics, a large staff compliment, perpetual under funding and a fast changing disease profile.
“I avail myself for advice when you need it and believe that the managers of this department will embrace and support you. My beloved managers, I thank you for the support you have given me over the years and believe me when I tell you that it is not going to be business as usual.
Dr Dlomo is leader in his own right, he will introduce changes that you must embrace and support because they will be for the benefit of the people of KwaZulu-Natal. My last and welcoming words are wish to be the second class of which you are; rather than being the first class of who you are not” said the speaker during her hand over.
In response, the new MEC, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo thanked the outgoing MEC for availing herself. He said that he will rely on her leadership and counsel as he finds his way in the department. “I also wish to urge all managers to be a shining light for all managers in the lower ranks. You need to acquaint yourselves with the mandate of this government so that at no stage you are found wanting when asked for advice” said Dr Dhlomo.
He further acknowledged the commemoration of the Nurses Day on the day of the
International Nurses Day. He reminded managers to ensure that they recognise the hosting of the International Council of Nurses 24th Quadrennial Congress in Durban from 27 June to 4 July 2009 as an event “that marks the indelible mark in the history of nursing care in the country”.
Enquiries:
LA Mbangwa
Cell: 083 459 8695
Issued by: Department of Health, KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government
12 May 2009
Source: Department of Health, KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government (http://www.kznhealth.gov.za/)
