Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko - Gauteng MEC Health and Wellness

Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, is advancing her vision of establishing the province as South Africa’s public sector leader in world-class cancer care.

With nine linear accelerators currently operational between Steve Biko Academic Hospital and Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, more than any other province, Gauteng has become the national benchmark for public-sector oncology treatment capacity.

This leadership is now being expanded through the construction of two state-of-the-art radiation oncology outpatient facilities at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital and Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital. Upon completion, and with the installation of additional linacs, Gauteng will become the only province in South Africa with four academic hospitals offering advanced radiotherapy services using high-precision linear accelerators.

“Access to cancer treatment should not be a privilege, it is a fundamental right,” said MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko. “Gauteng is not only leading in the number of operational linear accelerators, but we are also setting the pace in building a cancer care ecosystem that prioritizes accessibility, world-class infrastructure, and excellence in medical outcomes. Our goal is to place Gauteng at the forefront of cancer treatment and research in Africa.”

The two new outpatient facilities are expected to dramatically reduce waiting times, shorten travel distances for patients in underserved areas, and alleviate pressure on existing facilities. Together, the four academic hospitals will support an integrated provincial oncology programme focused on early diagnosis, advanced treatment, and continuous professional training for healthcare workers.

This initiative also lays the foundation for a stronger African narrative in cancer care—deepening the continent’s understanding of the disease and enhancing strategies to combat it within the African public healthcare framework.