Eastern Cape Unveils New R416 Million Oncology Unit to Drastically Cut Cancer Travel Times
In a historic move for public healthcare in the region, the Eastern Cape Provincial Government has officially unveiled a state-of-the-art, R416 million oncology unit at the Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital in Mthatha.
Led by Premier Oscar Mabuyane and Health MEC Ntandokazi Capa, the launch marks a major shift in how specialized cancer care is delivered to vulnerable communities.
Historically, patients across the OR Tambo, Alfred Nzo, Chris Hani, and Joe Gqabi districts had to travel massive distances to KuGompo City or Gqeberha just to receive critical radiotherapy, tearing them away from their support networks during grueling treatment cycles.
The newly built facility eliminates this logistical nightmare by uniting comprehensive services under one roof.
It features: cutting-edge equipment, two Linear Accelerator (LINAC) machines for highly targeted radiation treatment, inpatient Capacity: 68 dedicated beds, divided into 30 for female patients, 30 for male patients, and 8 designated for pediatric and neonatal care.
Architecturally, the facility is built with the future in mind.
A suspended link bridge seamlessly connects the center to the main hospital infrastructure for easy access to radiology, operating theaters, and lab results.
Furthermore, the structural foundation is engineered to support an additional two floors as future healthcare demands grow.
“This is a massive step forward in bringing dignity and world-class care directly to the people,” the provincial government noted.
By centering specialized oncology in Mthatha, local families can now fight cancer closer to home, backed by robust healthcare infrastructure and specialized localized expertise.