The R131m upgrade is expected to significantly improve patient care, modernise critical infrastructure, and create a safer, more efficient environment for both patients and healthcare workers. It is the only regional hospital in the Fezile Dabi district and caters to patients from about 19 surrounding towns.

Free State MEC for health Monyatso Mahlatsi and MEC for public works and infrastructure Dibolelo Mance conducted a joint oversight visit to the facility to assess progress and inspect newly refurbished sections on Thursday (19/3).

The main objective of the visit was to inspect and monitor progress on the ongoing refurbishment and upgrades on this site.

This also included the assessment of the quality of work, engaging with the project teams on site, and ensuring that appropriate measures are in place to fast-track the completion and delivery of key hospital sections.

“I am pleased with the quality and progress of the work currently underway at this hospital,” said Mance. “This project is an important investment in strengthening healthcare infrastructure in the Fezile Dabi district.

“The enhancements implemented as part of the scope form part of the department’s commitment to improve public infrastructure, enhance healthcare service delivery, and ensure that government facilities meet the required standards for safety, efficiency, and modern healthcare needs.”

“A significant number of the local workforce was sourced from the Kroonstad local area to render physical work support in the implementation of work in the section of the hospital.”

A total of 41 residents are currently employed on site, and eleven local enterprises have been appointed as subcontractors, she said.

The refurbishment spans core patient-care and support areas, including general wards, the kitchen, administration block, mortuary, and medical blocks. According to the project team, the first-floor passage, the administration block, and a general ward have been fully completed.

Work nearing completion includes the boiler room, gas bank, doctors’ lounge, and repairs to the gynaecology ward.

Mahlatsi said significant progress had been made in addressing long-standing concerns from the community about deteriorating conditions at the hospital, adding that the renovations form part of the department’s broader, scheduled programme of service delivery improvements and maintenance in various health facilities across the province.

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