Health Minister Announces Funding Plan for New Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital

Why the Hospital Needs a New Building

Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital in Gauteng is housed in a building that was originally a small district hospital for the Ga‑Rankuwa settlement. The structure is old and shows signs of wear, which makes it hard to provide modern medical care.

What the Minister Said in Parliament

Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi answered questions from EFF MP Moshome Patrick Motubane. He confirmed that a decision has been made about the hospital’s future.

Immediate and Medium‑Term Steps

• Immediate: Assess the hospital’s infrastructure needs.
• Medium‑term: Appoint a professional team to help plan and design a new academic hospital.

Funding Timeline

The Department of Health will apply for money from the National Treasury.

Key Dates

• Application for funding will be submitted in the third quarter of the 2026/27 financial year.
• R20 million has already been set aside for the 2026/27 budget to cover the planning phase.
• At the moment the project is still in the planning stage.

Current Use of the COVID‑19 Wing

The wing that was built during the pandemic is now fully operational. It houses several clinical departments, including the Accident and Emergency Unit.

Challenges with the Mental Health Unit

Motubane raised concerns about inhumane and unsafe conditions for mental health patients.

Minister’s Response

According to the Gauteng Department of Health, there are no plans to move mental health patients out of the existing unit. Patients are staying in parts of the building that have been checked as safe for continued care. A new mental health unit is planned as a long‑term solution.

Preventing Another Tragedy Like Life Esidimeni

Motsoaledi outlined steps taken to improve mental health services after the Life Esidimeni incident.

Measures in Place

• Regulations for licensing community mental health facilities were introduced in June 2025, strengthening oversight.
• Mental health infrastructure norms guide the design and construction of facilities to ensure safety, human rights, and a therapeutic environment.

Conclusion

The government is moving forward with a plan to replace the ageing Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital with a new, modern facility. Funding will be sought from the National Treasury, with planning already underway. While the current hospital continues to serve patients—including its COVID‑19 wing and mental health unit—efforts are being made to improve safety and care standards, especially for mental health services, to avoid past mistakes.