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Thursday, 4 September, 2025
HomeNephrologyGauteng Health flags organ donor scarcity in SA

Gauteng Health flags organ donor scarcity in SA

The critical shortage of organ donors is unlikely to improve unless more people become donors, with Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko warning that at least 6 500 patients are awaiting organ and tissue donations across South Africa, and more than 1 100 in Gauteng alone need kidney transplants.

TimesLIVE reports that at a legislature sitting on Tuesday, coinciding with National Kidney Awareness Week (2-6 September), the MEC said the figures include patients already listed and others still undergoing work-ups for possible transplants.

It is estimated that 6%-10% of South Africans have some form of kidney disease, and many are unaware until it is too late, Nkomo-Ralehoko said, urging people to consider becoming organ donors.

The MEC added that the department continues to raise awareness about early testing and the importance of organ donation.

 

TimesLIVE article – MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko sounds alarm on organ donation shortage (Restricted access)

 

See more from MedicalBrief archives:

 

Medical students tackle SA’s organ donation crisis

 

Scientists call for HIV+ donors for bone marrow transplants

 

SA policy uncertainty a major obstacle to organ donation

 

State launches organ donation awareness campaign

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