The Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA) expresses deep disappointment and outrage at the announcement made yesterday in a press briefing by the Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi regarding the recruitment of just 200 nurses into the public healthcare system. In the face of a nationwide crisis of nurse shortages, this announcement is not only shockingly inadequate but downright insulting to the nursing fraternity.

The Department of Health has not only failed to respond meaningfully to the dire shortage of nurses across the country, but it has also shown a disturbing lack of shame in publicly announcing the recruitment of a mere 200 nurses—as though it were a breakthrough. This token gesture, coming after repeated calls for urgent and large-scale investment into nursing human resources, is a slap in the face to the thousands of nurses who are already stretched beyond capacity. It is an affront to those working under impossible conditions, often without rest, proper compensation, or adequate support.

The shortage of nurses in South Africa is nothing short of a devastating crisis. The Free State alone faces a 28% vacancy rate, and similar figures are reflected in other provinces such as the Eastern Cape. National projections estimate that South Africa could be short by over 100,000 nurses by 2030 if urgent interventions are not made.

These shortages have devastating impacts:
• Patient care is compromised, with fewer nurses caring for more patients, increasing the risk of complications and mortality.
• Waiting times in clinics and hospitals are lengthening, leading to poorer health outcomes and deepening inequality.
• Nurses are burning out, with many leaving the profession or emigrating due to untenable working conditions, further compounding the problem.

We also acknowledge the Minister’s reference to the procurement of hospital beds, mattresses, and linen—items that are undeniably crucial to patient care and dignity.

However, DENOSA is deeply concerned that these procurements, if managed through the existing tendering system, will fall victim to the same corrupt practices that have plagued other public health initiatives. The tender system has become a breeding ground for looting and inefficiency, and unless transparency and accountability are prioritised, the funds allocated will be squandered, and frontline facilities will see little benefit.

DENOSA also notes with disappointment the announcement of the newly appointed Review Committee to assess and reform the current health policies. We have no confidence in the ability of the individuals appointed to drive meaningful change. Many of these individuals have held leadership or influential roles within the health sector in the past and failed to implement the transformative policies needed to save our deteriorating public healthcare system. Their reappointment represents more of the same – recycled leadership without new ideas or real accountability.

We reiterate our urgent call for the Department of Health to:
• Implement a robust and comprehensive nurse recruitment and retention plan, targeting thousands, not hundreds, of new nursing appointments.
• Invest in training and support structures to ensure a sustainable nursing pipeline.
• Root out corruption in procurement by overhauling the tender system and ensuring clean, transparent processes.
• Engage in meaningful consultation with health professionals, unions, and civil society—especially in policy review processes—to ensure the right voices are at the table.

The recruitment of only 200 nurses and the recycling of ineffective policy voices shows a disturbing detachment from the realities faced by nurses and patients every day. South Africa’s healthcare crisis demands bold, transformative leadership—grounded in action, not lip service. 

DENOSA remains committed to being a strong voice for nurses and to ensuring that the health system is rebuilt on the foundation of equity, dignity, and quality care for all.
End of Statement

Issued by:

The Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA)
For media inquiries, please contact:
Sonia Mabunda-Kaziboni (Communications Manager and National Spokesperson)

Mobile: 072 535 1577