The Ikhwezi Community Day Centre in Nomzamo is set to get a significant boost as part of a proposed R56 million capital budget allocation aimed at upgrading clinic infrastructure across the metro.
This investment, currently open for public comment until Friday 2 May, underscores the City of Cape Town’s commitment to enhancing municipal health services.
Among the prioritised projects is a much-needed upgrade for the Ikhwezi clinic. The proposed improvements include enhanced staff and public facilities, upgrades to the pharmacy, the addition of a consulting room and preparation room, as well as a dedicated new TB waiting area.
Francine Higham, Mayoral Committee member for Community Services and Health, emphasised the urgency of the Ikhwezi upgrades, stating: “The proposed works at Ikhwezi is particularly pressing. These upgrades were meant to happen nearly five years ago, but were delayed by an act of arson that destroyed a significant part of the building. The initial focus was to get Ikhwezi back up and running, and now, if this budget is approved, work can finally begin on providing the community with an even bigger and better facility.”
Beyond Ikhwezi, the substantial capital injection will address various needs across the City’s nearly 80 clinics and Environmental Health facilities. Other notable upgrades include constructions at Matthew Goniwe Community Day Centre (Khayelitsha), Tafelsig Clinic (Mitchells Plain) and Luvuyo Community Day Centre (Khayelitsha), as well as Environmental Health headquarters (Bellville) and Area South offices (Lakeside).
Furthermore, R20 million is earmarked for upgrades and medical equipment to meet National Core standards in clinics such as Delft South and Elsies River.
An additional R6,5 million is proposed for Environmental Health equipment and IT, and R2 million for security upgrades at various facilities.
Higham urged public participation in the budget process, highlighting the potential benefits: “By proposing these investments, we hope that the public are able to see what it means for them – improved service offerings, shorter waiting times, and healthier communities… I encourage everyone to have a closer look and have their say. The public comment period closes on 2 May, so get involved before it’s too late.
“This proposed budget represents a significant step towards strengthening healthcare infrastructure in Cape Town, with the upgrades at the Ikhwezi Community Day Centre serving as a key priority in delivering improved services to the Strand community.”
