Statement by Yongama Zigebe, Councillor in the City of Johannesburg for the United Democratic Movement

The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is deeply concerned by the dire state of the Randburg Municipal Clinic, as highlighted in recent reports. This situation reflects the broader crisis in our healthcare system, which continues to fail the most vulnerable members of our society.

It is unacceptable that a single doctor is expected to care for over 400 patients in a single day, while mothers with young children sit for hours in overcrowded queues, often exposed to harsh weather conditions.

Reports indicate that the clinic has a staggering 12,000 patient files, 70% of which are attributed to foreign nationals. This puts immense pressure on an already strained facility, which lacks adequate resources, staff and infrastructure.

The clinic’s outdated filing system, due to the absence of WiFi or digital systems, is emblematic of poor planning and negligence.

While other clinics struggle with one records room, this facility requires two just to manage its overwhelming patient load.

Meanwhile, medication allocations fail to last the month forcing the clinic to reorder supplies, which is both costly and unsustainable.

The abandoned top floor of the clinic, which could alleviate some of the overcrowding, is yet another example of wasted potential.

We echo the call by City of Johannesburg Speaker Nobuhle Mthembu for this space to be renovated and brought into use urgently.

The flocking of illegal migrants into Gauteng, as well as the hijacking of buildings in Johannesburg, further exaggerate challenges faced by local residents. While South Africa remains committed to its humanitarian obligations, the government must strike a balance to ensure that our citizens are not left behind. Health facility like Randburg Municipal Clinic must prioritise South Africans, while also addressing issues related to illegal immigration in a humane and lawful manner.

We call on the Gauteng Department of Health and the City of Johannesburg to take immediate action by:
1. Renovating the clinic’s top floor to expand its capacity.
2. Implementing digital health systems to improve efficiency and reduce reliance on outdated filing systems.
3. Providing additional doctors, nurses and administrative staff to address the overwhelming patient load.
4. Ensuring adequate medication supplies that meet the needs of the people.
5. Addressing the root causes of illegal migration to reduce pressure on public services.

South Africans deserve a healthcare system that prioritises their needs and upholds their dignity. The UDM will continue to hold the government accountable and demand urgent solutions to this crisis.