Keynote address by the Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Ms Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko during the Unveiling of the Wall of Remembrance for the Tambo Memorial Hospital Healthcare workers who passed away during the tragic Boksburg explosion, 08 December 2023
Programme Director: Mr Z Ndabula – CEO;
Acting HoD Mr. Arnold Malotana;
Hospital Board Chairperson, Ms. Mosima Mmotla;
Chief Director, Ekurhuleni District Mr. Simon Choma;
Representative of Organised Labour Mr. Cecil Mabunda;
Reverend Mnene;
Ms. Marry Ndaba;
Ladies and Gentlemen, esteemed colleagues, and the beloved families of our dearly departed;
Good afternoon.
Today, as we stand together for the unveiling of the Tambo Memorial Hospital Employees Memorial Wall, our hearts are heavy, yet filled with a profound sense of unity and strength. I want to express my deepest gratitude to each of you, my respected colleagues and the families of those we lost last year. Your presence here is a powerful testament to the lives we honour, especially honouring the courage and dedication of the health workers who lost their lives in the tragic explosion.
They are gone, but they will never be forgotten. This memorial stands as a reflection of the remarkable resilience and solidarity that have brought us together in the wake of such a devastating tragedy. It serves not only as a place of remembrance but also as a symbol of our commitment to continue their legacy of care and compassion. In their memory, we renew our dedication to serving our community with the same selflessness and strength they exemplified every day.
This memorial wall stands as a heartfelt tribute to our fallen colleagues, symbolizing not only our shared grief but also our collective hope and healing. It is a sacred space where we can meet to remember, to reflect, and to find solace in the knowledge that we share this journey of grief and remembrance. The courage and unity you have all shown during this incredibly challenging time have been a source of inspiration, shining a light of hope through one of the darkest chapters in our hospital's history.
On that tragic morning, our colleagues came to work, some starting their day, others ending their night shifts, completely unaware of the catastrophic events that would soon unfold. The disaster struck suddenly, shattering the normalcy of our day with a tragedy that has left a lasting impact on all of us. The initial shock and disbelief were overwhelming, as we grappled with the reality of the calamity that had befallen us.
The explosion was abrupt and catastrophic, tearing through the peace of our hospital with a force that was both unexpected and devastating. In those first moments, disbelief quickly gave way to the harsh reality of the situation. Our hospital, a haven of healing and care, was suddenly transformed into a scene of destruction and despair.
For many gathered here, the memories of that day are permanently engraved in your minds. The chaos, the sound of the explosion, and then the realization of the ensuing fire, these moments were beyond anything we could have ever imagined. Witnessing our hospital, a place of lifesaving and care was a shaking and painful sight, one that will never be forgotten.
Amidst this chaos, the bravery and selflessness displayed by so many were nothing short of heroic. While some sought safety, others instinctively moved towards the danger, their thoughts focused on the safety and well-being of their colleagues. This display of bravery and dedication speaks volumes about the character and spirit of the staff at Tambo Memorial Hospital.
Equally unforgettable was the response of our Emergency Medical Services on that day. To see our own EMS team, typically responding to external crises, rushing to our aid was both surreal and deeply touching. Their quick and courageous actions in rescuing our colleagues highlighted the risks they face every day in their dedication to saving lives.
This tragedy, though it brought immense sorrow and loss, also revealed the incredible strength and unity of our hospital community. In the aftermath, the support, empathy, and solidarity shown by everyone here were truly heartwarming. The way colleagues supported each other, the community's generous assistance, and the strength shown by the families of the victims were beacons of hope in a time of grief.
Indeed, last year's disaster cast a shadow over what should have been a festive season, turning our Christmas black with mourning as we paused our celebrations to lay our loved ones to rest. That year marked one of the darkest periods in the history of our department.
The impact of the disaster was profound, not just in the loss of our colleagues but in the way it touched every aspect of our lives. The festive cheer of Christmas was replaced by a somber atmosphere, as we grappled with the reality of the tragedy. Our hospital, usually a place of healing and joy, especially during the holiday season, became a place of mourning. The contrast was stark and deeply felt by everyone, leaving a lasting impression on our hearts and minds.
As we navigated through those difficult days, the sense of loss was palpable. Yet, in the midst of this darkness, there was a remarkable outpouring of support and unity. Colleagues who might have spent the holidays with their families dedicated their time to supporting the victims and their families. The community rallied around us, offering whatever help they could, an indication to the deep bonds we share not just as a hospital but as a community.
The families of our lost colleagues showed extraordinary strength and grace during this time. Their resilience in the face of such personal tragedy was a source of inspiration to us all. They reminded us of the value of life, the importance of our work, and the need to support each other not just as colleagues, but as a family. Their courage helped many of us to find the strength to continue, to heal, and to come together in a shared mission of care and compassion.
This period of grief and mourning brought us closer together, forging bonds that have only strengthened our commitment to our work and to each other. It reminded us of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
As we continue to heal and move forward, we carry with us the memories of those we lost, the lessons we learned, and the unity we forged in the face of adversity. This tragedy, though it brought immense pain, also brought out the best in us – our compassion, our resilience, and our unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of our community.
The unveiling of this memorial wall is a significant step in honouring those we have lost. It stands as a physical embodiment of their memories, a place where we can come to remember and reflect. This wall is not just a structure of stone and names; it is a symbol of the lives that touched us, the hands that healed, and the hearts that cared. It is a reminder of the personal sacrifices made and the professional dedication shown by our colleagues. In this way, the wall serves as a lasting tribute, ensuring that their contributions to our hospital and community are never forgotten.
Moreover, this memorial wall represents a commitment to remember and honour our fallen colleagues not just today, but for generations to come. It will stand as a testament to their dedication, serving as an inspiration to current and future healthcare professionals. It reminds us of all of the values that are central to our profession, care, compassion, and the relentless pursuit of healing. This wall will be a place where the stories of those we lost are told and retold, keeping their spirit alive in the corridors and rooms of Tambo Memorial Hospital.
Moreover, this wall is a place of communal healing and reflection. It offers a space for colleagues, families, and the community to come together in remembrance and support. In times of sorrow or in moments of quiet reflection, this wall will be a sanctuary, a place where the legacy of our colleagues can be felt, and their presence remembered. It is a cornerstone in our journey of healing, a tangible reminder that while we may have lost our colleagues in physical form, their spirit and influence continue to resonate within our hospital and in each of us.
In honouring them, we are reminded of the way we honoured Oliver Reginald Tambo, after whom this hospital is named. Just as OR Tambo was celebrated for his solid commitment to service, leadership, and humanity, this memorial wall serves a similar purpose. It is a tribute to the selflessness, dedication, and compassion of our colleagues who lost their lives.
In naming the hospital after OR Tambo, we sought to embody the values he stood for, and today, as we unveil this wall, we extend that same honour to our colleagues. Their names and memories will be etched not only on this wall but in the very ethos of Tambo Memorial Hospital, serving as a constant inspiration to all who walk these halls.
This act of remembrance aligns with the values of the Gauteng Department of Health, reflecting our deep appreciation and respect for those who dedicate their lives to healthcare. As we stand here today, we are reminded of the sacrifices made by these individuals, and we reaffirm our commitment to uphold their legacy. The Gauteng Department of Health will forever remain grateful for their service.
Their dedication to the well-being and care of others, even in the face of immense risk, sets a standard of excellence and compassion that we all aspire to. This memorial wall is not just a symbol of remembrance; it is a commitment from us, as a department and as a community, to never forget the sacrifices they made and to continue their work with the same passion and dedication they exemplified.
We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the families of the deceased. Your strength and grace in such a difficult time have been a source of inspiration to us all. We recognize that this day, and indeed the entire festive season, will forever hold a different meaning for you. The memories of loss and pain are inevitably intertwined with this time of year, casting a shadow where there once was light.
However, as we continue to move forward, we hope that this December, and all the Decembers to come, can also become a time to celebrate and remember the significant contributions your loved ones made to society. Their selfless service, their dedication to the well-being of others, and the positive impact they had on so many lives are all reasons to honour their memory.
We hope that in doing so, you can find a glimmer of light in the midst of sorrow, transforming this time of year into not only a period of remembrance but also one of gratitude for the time and love shared with those who are no longer with us. As Helen Keller once said, "What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us." Let this be a message of hope and enduring connection, a reminder that the love and memories shared with your loved ones are everlasting gifts that continue to shape and enrich our lives.
We also acknowledge and honour the survivors of the fire. Your journey through recovery and healing is a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit. We recognize the physical and emotional challenges you have faced and continue to face. Your courage and perseverance in overcoming this tragedy are deeply admired and serve as a powerful reminder of the preciousness of life and the importance of community support in times of adversity. As we stand here today, we pledge our ongoing support and commitment to your well-being and recovery.
I would also like to express my profound appreciation to the entire health department staff, who worked tirelessly in the wake of this tragedy. From the EMS teams who were first on the scene, to the nurses and doctors who provided critical care, to the clerical staff, security personnel, and those handling essential services like laundry – your collective efforts have been nothing short of heroic. Your dedication and hard work in such challenging circumstances have not gone unnoticed, and we are deeply grateful for your unwavering commitment to saving lives.
Furthermore, our gratitude extends to organizations like Gift of the Givers and many other individuals and groups who stepped forward to offer their support. Your contributions made a significant difference in easing the burden during this difficult time. Your generosity, whether in the form of donations, services, or emotional support, has been invaluable. It is in moments like these that we are reminded of the power of community and the impact of coming together to support those in need.
I also want to extend a special thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of this event, including the contractors who worked diligently to complete the memorial wall within the specified timeframe. Your dedication to this project has helped create a space that not only honours those we have lost but also provides a place of solace and remembrance for all who visit. Your efforts have ensured that this memorial stands as a fitting tribute to the lives and legacies of our colleagues.
In closing, let us remember that while we have faced great loss, we have also witnessed the incredible strength of the human spirit. This memorial wall is not just a symbol of remembrance; it is a beacon of hope, reminding us that even in our darkest times, we can find light in the support and compassion of those around us.
As Anne Frank beautifully put it, “Look at how a single candle can both defy and define the darkness.” As we honour those we have lost, let us be that candle, continuing to defy the darkness with our dedication and compassion, and defining a future filled with hope and healing. May this wall serve as a reminder of our ability to overcome, to heal, and to emerge stronger, united in our commitment to care for each other and our community.
Thank you very much.
