Johannesburg – At least 29 State hospitals and private partners in Gauteng performed 806 surgical procedures in 12 hours as part of the third edition of Mandela Day “Surgical Marathons”.
The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) on Saturday, 19 July 2025, said the number of surgeries performed exceeded last year’s total by 64.
The GDoH said this year surgical procedures focused on critical specialties, which included cleft palate repair, cataract surgery, colostomy reversal, and prostate procedures.
“Since we embarked on the surgical marathons three years ago, each year we surpass the target of the previous year as we strive to do more to make a difference,” explained Gauteng Health and Wellness MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko.
“The work we do during this period is over and above the normal elective surgeries done by our facilities.”
The health MEC commended health professionals, students from local universities, and organisations like the Smile Foundation and the Dr SK Matseke Hospital that partnered with the GDoH.
Meanwhile, to ensure timely access to surgical procedures, the GOoH said it has become the first provincial health department in the country to introduce Treatment Time Guarantees (TTGs).
The GDoH said the innovative framework is implemented to improve access to surgical care, promote transparency, and strengthen public health accountability.
The introduction of TTGs establishes maximum allowable waiting times for various surgical procedures based on urgency and clinical condition.
This strategic reform is designed to streamline access to surgical care, prioritise patient needs, and hold healthcare facilities accountable for timely treatment.
Speaking at the launch of the TTG, MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko said: “Gauteng is taking a historic step in transforming surgical care by introducing the Treatment Time Guarantees.
“We are leading the way by ensuring that patients receive the surgeries they need without unnecessary delays.
“This framework empowers us to actively manage waiting lists and enhance the quality of care for all.”
MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko added: “This groundbreaking innovation underscores our commitment to improved healthcare delivery in Gauteng, drawing from global best practices while tailoring the TTG framework to meet the unique needs of our healthcare system”, she added.
Alongside Mandela Day surgical marathons, MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko reopened the newly refurbished Urology Unit at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, a facility now equipped to offer safer, more precise prostate biopsies without the need for a surgical theatre.
Additionally, the upgraded Helen Joseph Hospital Breast Centre of Excellence has been reopened to enhance early detection and diagnosis of breast cancer through improved imaging and testing.
“This facility will expand treatment services and provide a welcoming, dignified space for care, bringing hope to patients and families during their most vulnerable moments,” the GDoH said.
