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The Mpumalanga Department of Health has initiated disciplinary proceedings against three nurses at Tonga Hospital following allegations of mistreatment of a patient, Lydia Makhoba. The incident, which occurred on 21 March 2025, gained public attention after a video showing the alleged abuse circulated on social media.
Details of the Incident
According to a departmental statement released on 24 March, Makhoba, who was admitted on 13 March for diabetic foot complications and hypertension, had requested a bedpan after taking medication for constipation. While nurses went to fetch it, she attempted to crawl to the toilet, resulting in an accident on the floor.
Upon their return, the nurses, with the help of porters, lifted Makhoba back to bed due to her body size. However, she later reported that one nurse used harsh language and mishandled her by gripping the back of her neck during the process. The nurse in question acknowledged the handling of her neck but denied beating her.
A neighbouring patient corroborated Makhoba’s account. The department interviewed all parties involved, including the patient’s family, and summoned the three nurses for statements before proceeding with disciplinary hearings.
Patient’s Death and Calls for Independent Investigation
Makhoba has since passed away, though her exact cause of death remains undisclosed. While the provincial health department has pledged accountability, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has called for the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) to conduct an independent probe.
The DA also raised concerns over the Mpumalanga health system’s broader challenges, including staff shortages, overworked medical personnel, and aging infrastructure—factors they argue contribute to such incidents. The province’s health department currently faces medical negligence claims exceeding R10 billion.
The department extended condolences to Makhoba’s family, while the DA urged systemic reforms to prevent future lapses in patient care.
For further inquiries, contact the Mpumalanga Department of Health’s Communications Directorate: Mr. Dumisani Malamule – 067 023 9053.
