Gauteng Health MEC Unveils Major Upgrades at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital

Divinity Mokgwatshane11 April , 2025

Refurbished infrastructure, advanced medical equipment, and future hospital plans highlight the province’s healthcare transformation efforts in Ga-Rankuwa.

In a powerful move aimed at reviving public healthcare services in the province, Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko on Wednesday unveiled a significant round of refurbishments and new medical equipment. The upgrades took place at the historic Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital in Ga-Rankuwa.

The improvements include newly upgraded hospital wards, state-of-the-art ICU beds, and a suite of cutting-edge diagnostic tools. These tools include a new MRI scanner, CT scanner, and a Cath lab machine. These medical advancements are expected to drastically improve patient outcomes, reduce diagnostic delays, and ease the burden on hospital staff.

Commitment to Modernisation

The Gauteng Department of Health confirmed that the initiative is part of the provincial government’s broader commitment to modernising healthcare infrastructure. They aim to improve service delivery. This was articulated by Premier Panyaza Lesufi during his 2025 State of the Province Address (SOPA).

Speaking at the hospital, Nkomo-Ralehoko reflected on the journey of transformation since her previous visit in 2022, stating:

“When I came here in December 2022, I felt we had neglected this institution. We needed to improve—and this is improvement. These upgrades mark real progress.”

What’s New: Equipment & Facilities

Under the leadership of hospital CEO Dr Fhatuwani Mbara, the institution now boasts:

🔹 Refurbished hospital wards to improve comfort and care quality
🔹 Advanced ICU beds for critical care patients
🔹 A modern MRI scanner for more precise diagnostics
🔹 A CT scanner for faster and more detailed imaging
🔹 A new Cath lab machine to enhance cardiac care services

These additions will help streamline treatment and diagnostic processes. These processes have historically been a source of frustration for both patients and healthcare professionals due to long waiting periods and outdated tools.

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Challenges and Future Plans

Despite the significant improvements, Nkomo-Ralehoko emphasized that more still needs to be done. She expressed her intention to meet directly with management and hospital staff to better understand their needs and challenges.

In addition, Gauteng Department of Health spokesperson Motalatale Modiba confirmed that the provincial government is considering building a new hospital in the Ga-Rankuwa area. This proposed facility would help ease the pressure on Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital. It would also improve access to quality care for surrounding communities.

“When people are working, just give them what they need to do the job,” Nkomo-Ralehoko said. “We have refurbished the institution under the guidance of Dr Mbara, and these upgrades will make a huge difference.”

Historical Significance and Modern Demands

Established in 1972, Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital has long served as a pillar of healthcare in northwestern Tshwane. However, over the years, the facility has faced chronic underfunding, staffing shortages, and infrastructure wear, which have severely limited its capacity.

Adding to these difficulties, fire breakouts in public hospitals across the province, including this facility, have further strained healthcare delivery. The latest upgrades are seen as a critical intervention to revive public trust, improve working conditions, and set the tone for future investments.

Budget, Staffing, and Community Impact

The Department of Health has not yet disclosed the full budget allocated for this specific upgrade. However, officials confirmed that the funding forms part of a larger provincial infrastructure revitalisation programme.

Patients and residents in Ga-Rankuwa and surrounding areas have long decried the lack of functional equipment, long waiting periods, and limited bed capacity. This intervention, though just a starting point, is expected to significantly elevate the standard of care.

With this bold initiative, the Gauteng Health Department is making good on its promise to deliver a more responsive, better-equipped healthcare system. The transformation of Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital serves not only as a blueprint for future hospital revamps but also as a symbol of renewed hope for thousands of Gauteng residents.