Pretoria - Defence and Military Veterans Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has appointed a task team to investigate conditions that negatively affect the functioning of the country’s military hospitals.
Speaking at a New Age Business Briefing, the minister noted that there have been resignations by over 35 military doctors.
“I’ve become aware of a number of factors negatively affecting the function of our military hospitals, as well as the working conditions of our medical professionals.
“I’ve appointed a task team to investigate these matters and report to me within six weeks,” said Minister Mapisa-Nqakula.
Three military hospitals exist, namely One Military, Two Military and Three Military.
“We’ve had resignations by 35 doctors and I want to know the reasons. I expect the team to provide me with answers so that I’m able to deal with those challenges,” she said.
The minister said the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) was a national asset and that the force today stands tall, enjoying credibility and legitimacy at home and abroad.
Demystifying the force
The minister noted that it was not often that the public got to engage in open dialogue with the military.
“… We are working very hard to change that. We want to demystify the military,” she added.
It was important for the public to be aware of the work done by the SANDF.
Last month on Armed Forces Day, President Jacob Zuma, as Commander-in-Chief of the SANDF, honoured and paid tribute to the selfless men and women in uniform at home and abroad.
“We are truly proud of your contribution to making South Africa a much better place to live in now than it was before 1994,” said President Zuma at the Armed Forces Day celebrations held in Bloemfontein. - SAnews.gov.za
