The days of travelling long distances to give birth are over for the women of Dunoon and surrounds following the official opening of a maternity ward at the Dunoon hospital.
Health MEC Dr Nomafrench Mbombo, flanked by ward councillor Meisie Makuwa, unveiled the new 10-bed unit on Wednesday last week.
Dr Mbombo, an advanced midwife herself, said it was fitting that the official opening was happening a day after Women’s Day.
“Many South African women face immense challenges, such as gender-based violence, societal barriers and worsening socio-economic hardships daily while bringing up their families. As a department, we are committed to continue making a difference in all aspects of women’s health services to respond where we can to empower, care and support women.”
Previously, expectant mothers from Dunoon and surrounds had to travel 20km or more to give birth, either at Somerset Hospital in Green Point or at Vanguard hospital in Bontheuwel.
Asiphe Kona, 29, from Dunoon, was the first mother to give birth at the 24-hour facility after it opened on Sunday June 19. Her baby, Oluhle, is now two months old.
“The service was good, everything ran extremely well,” said Ms Kona.
