In the media

International Nurses Day Commemoration: Stalwart nurse builds second maternity clinic in Alberton

14 May 2024

Diversified JSE listed healthcare company AfroCentric Group, has teamed up with Eluthandweni Maternity Clinic to launch a satellite branch in Alberton Mall.  

The launch follows the commemoration of International Nurses Day on May 12th, where executives from AfroCentric, including Dr Nkateko Munisi, AfroCentric Group Board Member and Chairperson of Social & Ethics Committee, Sandile Mbele: AfroCentric Group Executive Director, Corporate Solutions, , Monwabisi Kula: Chief Audit Executive and Doreen Nchabeleng: General Manager, CCMDD Operations, Pharmacy Direct  joined Sister Nonina Diphoko in a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the newly established clinic.

The event commenced with an opening ceremony at the new Eluthandweni Satellite Clinic in Alberton Mall, followed by festivities at the main facility in Vosloorus.

The first mother and child clinic, initiated by Sister Dolly Dube, the late mother of Sister Nonina Diphoko  in the early 90’s in Vosloorus, was born from a vision to enhance maternal and child well-being during the birthing process. Despite the high global mortality rates, Eluthandweni has maintained a remarkable 0% mortality rate.

Palesa Makhetha, General Manager Group Marketing and Corporate Affairs, stated, "As we honor International Nurses Day, we recognise the pivotal role nurses play in reducing infant mortality globally. The decline from 5.0 million neonatal deaths in 1990 to 2.3 million in 2022 demonstrates their significant contribution, exemplified by Sister Nonina and her colleagues."

Eluthandweni, initially a birthing clinic, has evolved into a comprehensive facility offering round-the-clock services, including screening for chronic conditions and non-communicable disease testing. Additionally, it serves as a pick-up point for chronic medications, easing accessibility for patients.

Despite being the backbone of healthcare, nursing faces financial constraints and societal undervaluation. International Nurses Day aims to reshape perceptions by highlighting the economic and societal benefits of strategic investment in nursing.

"The AfroCentric Group has been instrumental in the construction of the clinic buildings since 2015 and also purchased vehicles - a Venue Hyundai panel van, a Hyundai H1 and a Toyota Venture for the establishment- two of which were converted into ambulances ," stated Makhetha.

This year's theme, "Our Nurses. Our Future. The Economic Power of Care," epitomises Eluthandweni Maternity Health Services' commitment to the Vosloorus and Alberton communities. Sister Nonina's leadership exemplifies the dedication and integrity of the nursing profession, deserving accolades for her tireless efforts.

Palesa Makhetha concluded, "We celebrate Sister Nonina and her colleagues, acknowledging their hard work and passion to upholding the nursing profession's integrity."