OVER 800 SURGERIES ON MANDELA DAY AS GAUTENG PROVINCE
PIONEERS TREATMENT TIME GUARANTEES FRAMEWORK
In the spirit of service and dedication to healthcare, Gauteng public
hospitals on Friday, (July 18) successfully performed 806 surgical
procedures as at 19:00 in a process that ran for 12 hours across 29
institution as part of the third edition of Mandela Day Surgical Marathons
initiative.
This is 64 surgeries more than was the case in 2024 (742). The surgical
marathon will continue, however continue to run until the end of July 2025.
This year surgical procedures, focused on critical specialties such as cleft
palate repair, cataract surgery, colostomy reversal and prostate
procedures amongst others, all aimed at enhancing the independence and
overall well-being of affected individuals, in addition to general surgeries.
“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. The work we do during this period is over and above the
normal elective surgeries done by our facilities” explained MEC for Health
and Wellness Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, commending health
professionals, students from local universities, and organisations like the
Smile Foundation and the Dr SK Matseke Hospital that partnered with the
Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH).
Meanwhile, in an effort to ensure timely access to surgical procedures, the
GDoH has become the first provincial health department in the country to
introduce Treatment Time Guarantees (TTGs).
This 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.

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Speaking at the launch of the TTG, Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu
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.”
“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.