By Kopano Dibakwane
Mpumalanga healthcare practitioners embarked on a 5 km Fun Walk, alongside MEC for Health Sasekani Manzini, to celebrate the annual International Nurses Day, at Siyabuswa in Dr JS Moroka Municipality.
The ceremony, held in collaboration with DENOSA(Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa), was reportedly aimed at honouring the dedication, compassion and expertise of nurses worldwide, under the theme;”Our nurses, Our future”. It also recognised the vital role played by nurses in the healthcare system.
According to a statement by the Department of Health, Nurses are the backbone of the various healthcare teams providing hands-on patient care and advocating for health equity.
MEC Manzini, paid tribute to all nurses who have passed away and appreciated those who are still in the practice. Manzini also touched on the safety of nurses, by affirming that her department is making means to tighten security in healthcare facilities to avoid attacks on staff members and patients.
“ Let us remember those who came before us, especially the first women to become nurses like the like Mama Albertina Sisulu. May we appreciate the work of nurses and their service delivery. May all nurses continue to work with kindness and practice Ubuntu. Thank you all nurses for improving the health of your patients and sticking to your pledge,” said Manzini.
DENOSA President, Simon Hlungwani, said the event should be viewed as a token of appreciation for the hard work displayed by nurses.
“ We are thrilled to celebrate the contributions of our nursing professionals. Their tireless efforts and commitment to delivering quality patient care are truly inspiring,” said Hlungwani.
The department said the 5 km Fun Walk added a fun and energetic element to the event, as it encouraged participants to get active while showing their support.
Some of the highlights during the event included an award ceremony to recognise outstanding nursing achievements, as well as lighting candles to remember all the fallen nurses who are regarded as heroes of the profession. In addition, pupils from various local schools also joined the event to learn about opportunities in the nursing profession.
The event also saw the attendance of Deputy Director General(DDG) of Health Care and Hospital Management in the National Office, Ms J Hunter.
