South Africa: Mahikeng Clinic Runs Out of Antenatal Supplements - 'I Am Scared for My Baby'

Mahikeng clinic lacking antenatal supplements: "I am afraid for my baby"

Expectant mothers at Ramatlabama Health Centre outside Mahikeng in the North West Province have been unable to obtain antenatal supplements for months, forcing them to purchase expensive pills from pharmacies. The clinic serves over 2,000 residents in the surrounding rural community. Dimakatso, a pregnant woman, received one pack of folic acid and ARVs at the clinic in June, but was told to buy supplements at Clicks or a pharmacy when she returned in July and August.

Community healthcare workers are concerned that the lack of supplements could lead to health complications for both mothers and their unborn babies. Iron, calcium, and folic acid supplements are recommended by South Africa's primary healthcare guidelines to prevent anaemia, pre-eclampsia, and neural tube defects. A month's supply of iron supplements costs around R160, while 30 calcium tablets cost about R120.

Several unemployed mothers in the area told Health-e News they cannot afford these prices. The North West Department of Health acknowledged the supply problems, stating that the province is experiencing intermittent supply constraints affecting certain medicines and facilities. They are closely monitoring the situation and implementing interventions to minimise disruptions to patient care.

Community health workers in the area stress the urgent need to address supply chain issues at primary healthcare level, as many women are going months without supplements due to their inability to afford them.