Health Minister pays tribute to nurses

11 May 2010

Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has paid tribute to nurses in South Africa as part of marking International Nurses Day observed annually on 12 May.

In his message to the nurses the health minister acknowledged the many challenges that they face as they perform their daily duties. These challenges include among others long working hours and in some instances inadequate and ageing equipment and infrastructure. The health minister has committed his department to ensuring that working conditions for the nurses especially in the public health sector are improved.

Among the programmes that the health minister is implementing is the evaluation of nursing colleges in the country with a view to re-opening them so that the country’s capacity to produce more nurses is improved.

The minister has emphasised the importance of nurses in the delivery of quality healthcare services regarding them as the backbone of any healthcare. “One of the key things that I have committed myself to is an increased emphasis on primary healthcare. Nurses have always played a critical role in this regard. Our nurses are among the best in the world and I want to make sure that they are at the forefront of prevention and saving lives. This is what nurses have always done and should continue to do,” said the health minister.

The minister also used the opportunity to make a call to young people to consider a career in nursing while at the same time cautioning the public against un-registered nursing colleges.

For more information please contact:
Fidel Hadebe
Tel: 012 312 0663
Cell: 079 517 3333
E-mail: hadebf@health.gov.za

Issued by: Department of Health
11 May 2010