10 May 2007
Premier Dipuo Peters officially opened the new Joe Slovo Hospital in Garies
on Thursday, 10 May 2007, last week.
Peters said the opening of the new hospital was special in that credit for
the initiative to build the new facility goes to the visionary approach of
former President, Mr Nelson Mandela, whose concern for the well-being of our
people after a visit to the area led to his commitment to build this
hospital.
"He resolved to bring together those whose needs were urgent and those who
had the resources and commitment to help. And so we see here today the product
of a partnership that has come to characterise our young democracy."
"It is a partnership made up of the Northern Cape Department of Health
together with the guidance of the Nelson Mandela Foundation Trust and the
Dettol Trust who have contributed to the purchase of equipment to be used by
this hospital," said Premier Peters.
Peters said each such initiative contributes to the investment in people
which is critical for our nation's well-being and our economic development.
"Adequate healthcare enhances people's capacity to contribute to
development. I therefore believe that not only the people of this region but
those of the broader community are grateful to those who joined hands to make
this project a success."
The new 20 bed Joe Slovo Hospital replaces the old and dilapidated Garies
Hospital and is capable of responding to the latest health challenges. In terms
of healthcare it has an x-ray facility, a mortuary, an in-house pharmacy, a
modern kitchen, a laundry depot, relevant stores as well as a maternity ward
and general wards. Updated equipment including all standard tools necessary in
a public healthcare facility are now also providing for more effective and
accurate services. The State of the art facility which cost in the region of
R22 million to build will further serve communities in the vicinities of
Hondeklipbaai, Leliefontein, Kharkamas, Bitterfontein, Soebatsfontein,
Paulshoek, Nourivier, Rooifontein and Spoerivier.
The hospital is also well situated to service the community and is
strategically positioned on the N7 which has a high load of traffic, as it is
also the route from Namibia to Cape Town. Its presence will thus ease the minds
of travellers who frequent this road.
Enquiries:
Shelley Fielding
Tel: 053 830 2001
Issued by: Department of Health, Northern Cape Provincial Government
10 May 2007
