Despite the staggering statistics of more than 100 break-ins, burglaries and robberies at Eastern Cape health facilities last year – resulting in damages of R1.5m – it will be at least another three years before security is completely upgraded, reports the Cape Times.
The cost of the robberies, closely linked to vandalism, in the previous financial year was condemned by provincial Health MEC Ntandokazi Capa when she announced a R76m security upgrade at the Livingstone Hospital and Provincial Hospital Complex in Gqeberha.
The three-year project will include the construction and rehabilitation of secure boundary walls and high-security fencing, the installation of modern CCTV surveillance systems and perimeter lighting, and the construction and refurbishment of gatehouses and access control points, among other improvements.
Capa said many public institutions were grappling with ageing infrastructure while facing relentless criminal activity that had created significant operational risks.
“Every damaged gate compromises patient safety. Every break-in disrupts the work of dedicated healthcare professionals who have chosen public service as their calling,” she said.
She added that the statistics represent more than financial losses. “They reflect interruptions to healthcare services and threats to the safety of patients and staff.”
The upgrades will be carried out at the Livingstone Hospital Complex that includes Livingstone Hospital and Provincial Hospital, as well as the Protea Flats housing medical staff.
Construction be done in five phases over 36 months to ensure hospital services continue with minimal disruption. Work is expected to begin “immediately” – after the ceremonial site handover and the completion of all statutory approvals.
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