Healthcare services at three public hospitals in Mpumalanga have been significantly disrupted following a strike by security guards who have not received their February salaries. The affected facilities are Rob Ferreira Hospital, Themba Hospital, and Barberton Hospital, where the casualty ward is reportedly not operating.
Security guards at these hospitals have downed tools and are camping outside the gates, refusing to resume duties until they are paid. Patients arriving at the hospitals, including those requiring urgent assistance, have been turned away. Some patients reported being informed that the disruptions stem from the ongoing strike action by the security personnel.
The striking guards stated that this is not the first instance of delayed or non-payment of salaries. Broader issues appear to plague security companies contracted in the province, with multiple companies facing similar payment challenges.
The contract for these security services began last year in 2025 and is set to run for three years, concluding in 2028. Numerous problems have arisen since its inception.
The Department of Community Safety, Security, and Liaison has been contacted for clarification on the causes of the payment issues and is working to gather information to provide details on what went wrong.
At Barberton Hospital specifically, health professionals have exited the casualty section, citing safety concerns due to the absence of security. The area experiences frequent shootings linked to illegal gold mining activities, with rival gangs often clashing. Healthcare workers report recording such incidents almost daily, making it unsafe to continue operations without proper security measures in place.
The situation remains concerning for patients needing medical attention and for healthcare staff impacted by the ripple effects of the unpaid guards’ action. Monitoring of the developments continues at Barberton Hospital, as well as at Rob Ferreira and Themba hospitals.