Eastern Cape women giving birth in wards with leaking roofs, mould, and exposed wires
According to the CGE, only four met the two-hour response target. About 60% of cases reached court.
The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) has warned that Eastern Cape maternity wards and rape care centres are falling short, presenting two investigations to Parliament’s portfolio committee on health. The committee chairperson, Azwihangwisi Faith Muthambi, emphasized the need to understand the implications for accountability, service delivery, and the protection of women, mothers, newborns, and survivors of gender-based violence.
The CGE inspected six hospitals, where leaking roofs, mould, poor cleaning, and exposed electrical wires posed safety risks. Maternal mortality rates remained concerning despite a high utilization of maternal health services. The second report examined 11 Thuthuzela care centres, which provided medical, legal, and psychological support to survivors.
Only four centres met the two-hour response target, and about 60% of cases reached court. Staffing issues, lack of protocols, inconsistent oversight, and resource constraints were cited as systemic problems. MPs expressed anger, demanding accountability and questioning the department's response. The CGE's recommendations were not binding, but the department plans to report on progress by the 15th.
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