The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) wishes its formidable affiliate, the Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA) a prosperous 9th National Congress scheduled for 25 to 28 March. The union last held a Congress in 2019, and will convene once more under the theme, “Promoting Organisational Growth Through Innovative Practices towards Resilient Quality Healthcare and Effective Member Servicing.”
Nursing and healthcare professionals are the backbone of the healthcare system. Despite the myriad of challenges plaquing the system, it is the nurses and their counterparts that carry healthcare facilities, ensuring the constant provision of medical services to communities across the country.
They work under unfavorable conditions, enduring long hours and selflessly dedicating themselves to their oath of saving lives, yet the state drags its feet in attending to the cries of these workers. It is regrettable that in addition to staff shortages and lack of resources, for years nurses in the public sector have been in discussions with the Department of Health for a workable agreement in the provision of basic uniform. Such unnecessary mediocrity turns into obstruction in the retainment of nurses especially as the country’s universities and colleges produce a low number, and half the current nursing population will retire in the next 15 years.
Healthcare facilities such as hospitals and clinics are becoming targets for criminals, compromising the safety and security of nurses. Workers no longer feel safe during the day or night. This demands immediate attention from the authorities.
COSATU is, however, confident that DENOSA will deliberate successfully on the future of the nursing profession despite these challenging circumstances and on the organisation’s strategy for advancing quality healthcare. The engagements are also critical in the imminent implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI).
The Federation wishes its dedicated affiliate a successful and progressive National Congress.
Issued by COSATU
Zanele Sabela (COSATU National Spokesperson)
Mobile: 079 287 5788 / 077 600 6639
Email: zaneles@cosatu.org.za