Pensioner Phage Mahlaule (78) from Matsakali begins his journey to Malamulele Hospital before sunrise. Using crutches, he boards a taxi that will carry him nearly 10 km to the facility.
Even with his determination, standing in long queues is impossible. Mahlaule relies on his grandchild to help him navigate crowded corridors, often waiting hours just to be seen or to collect medication.
He is not alone. Patients at the hospital say long waits are a daily reality, whether for routine check-ups, treatment, or essential medication.
The Limpopo Mirror visited the facility on Monday, 23 February, and observed the strain on patients’ faces as they shuffled through lines, arriving early and leaving hours later.
“We had to wait just to get a file, which also takes time. I arrived around 06:00 for a check-up, and even if the queue moved faster, I would still have to wait for a doctor. The service at the hospital is poor. During apartheid, the situation was better than now,” Mahlaule said.
Other patients confirmed that long waits are constant. The Public Servants Association (PSA) blamed staffing shortages caused by retirements, resignations, and deaths.
“PSA has repeatedly called on the Department of Health to urgently replace these positions, not only at Malamulele Hospital but across the province. The failure to replace staff is overburdening the few employees who remain, exposing them to errors and mistakes,” said Lawrence Muvhango, Limpopo organiser for the PSA.
Neil Shikwambana, spokesperson for the Limpopo Department of Health, said an acting CEO has taken over following the resignation of the previous CEO to ensure smooth operations. “A skills development officer also reports to the acting CEO to maintain continuity,” he added.
Shikwambana acknowledged broader infrastructure challenges. “Running water in Malamulele Township is inconsistent, but we are managing with municipal tankering and boreholes whenever there is disruption.”