The Limpopo Department of Health announces today that the decision to reopen the Chuene Clinic, which was previously set to resume operations following a four-day closure, has been rescinded. The clinic will remain closed indefinitely until further notice.
This decision follows a thorough reassessment of the impact that the devastating incidents, including break-ins, robbery, abduction, and sexual assault of the nursing staff, have had on the affected personnel. After careful consideration of the emotional and psychological toll these traumatic events have had on the staff, as well as taking heed of their legitimate safety concerns, the department believes it is in the best interest of both healthcare workers and the community to temporarily halt the clinic’s operations.
We acknowledge and deeply regret the trauma that the healthcare workers at Chuene Clinic have experienced. The safety, well-being, and mental health of our healthcare professionals are of utmost importance, and their concerns must be addressed before any resumption of services can take place.
The department is committed to improving security measures at all healthcare facilities across the province to ensure that our healthcare workers can perform their duties without fear for their safety. The department will work closely with relevant stakeholders, including law enforcement and community leaders, to ensure that adequate protections are in place at the clinic before it is reopened.
In the meantime, community members are advised to continue seeking healthcare services at nearby facilities, including Maja, Soetfontein, and Block B until the situation at Chuene Clinic is resolved.
The department thanks the public for their understanding and continued support in ensuring a safe and secure environment for our healthcare workers.
For Enquiries:
Kapudi Moagi
MLO/MEC Spokesperson
Cell: 082 257 7856
Neil Shikwambana
Department Spokesperson
Cell: 066 479 9887
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