Gauteng’s health system is fully prepared to manage the increased pressures expected during the festive season, with provincial authorities rolling out an expanded, coordinated plan to safeguard lives on the roads, in communities and at healthcare facilities.
Speaking at the N3 Petroport in Heidelberg, Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko outlined the province’s state of readiness for the high-risk period between 1 December 2025 and 12 January 2026, when emergency incidents typically surge by between 25% and 40%
Hospitals, Clinics and Medicines Ready
The MEC assured residents that all hospitals and clinics across Gauteng’s five districts are fully operational and resourced for the festive rush. All 24-hour Community Health Centres will continue to function without interruption, ensuring access to essential healthcare throughout the holiday period
The provincial Medical Supplies Depot has committed to closely monitoring stock levels to ensure uninterrupted availability of life-saving medicines, with rapid response mechanisms in place should shortages arise
EMS Strengthened for High-Risk Period
To respond to increased road accidents, violence and trauma cases, the Gauteng Emergency Medical Services (EMS) has deployed 520 emergency ambulances, supported by ICU units, rescue vehicles, disaster buses and planned patient transport vehicles
More than 1 000 EMS personnel per shift will be on duty during peak periods, while the Provincial Health Operations Centre will monitor emergency calls, response times, hospital diversions and vehicle movements in real time
The province has also partnered with registered EMS non-profit organisations, enabling qualified volunteers to bolster capacity during the festive season.
Protection and Support for Paramedics
Acknowledging the growing threat of attacks on emergency responders, the MEC called on communities to protect health workers. Psychosocial support, including counselling and chaplaincy services, has been placed on standby to assist EMS staff exposed to traumatic incidents
Forensic and GBV Services on High Alert
All 11 Forensic Pathology Service offices will remain open, supported by backup generators and sufficient supplies to ensure uninterrupted service. A total of 48 pathologists, 102 forensic officers and 68 response vehicles have been deployed to manage fatalities and post-mortems efficiently, with disaster centres designated at Diepkloof and Ga-Rankuwa if mass fatalities occur
In response to the seasonal rise in violence, particularly gender-based and domestic violence, 18 Clinical Forensic Medical Service centres will operate 24 hours a day, with additional facilities offering extended daily services and referral pathways
Call for Public Responsibility
As December is recognised nationally as Injury Prevention Month, the MEC urged motorists to obey traffic laws, avoid drinking and driving, and resolve disputes peacefully to prevent unnecessary loss of life. Communities were also encouraged to support healthcare workers who will remain on duty while others celebrate
“Our wish is that no lives are lost this festive season,” Nkomo-Ralehoko said, emphasising that safety is a shared responsibility between government and the public.
— Gauteng News
