The Department of Health commemorated International Nurses Day by emphasizing the critical role nurses play in the healthcare system. The focus was on advocating for a safer working environment for all health workers, aligning with this year's theme. Departmental spokesperson Foster Mohale highlighted that nurses and other healthcare workers are the backbone of any health system, acting as the first point of contact for patients and serving as a vital link between individuals and the care they require.

Mohale noted that nurses play a crucial role in counselling and educating patients and their families about health conditions, treatment plans, and self-care strategies. Despite their essential contributions, nurses frequently face serious safety threats while on duty, including physical and verbal abuse from patients and community members. Recent incidents have involved robberies and sexual assaults against nurses, particularly at primary healthcare facilities.

The department stressed the need for a well-supported and healthy nursing workforce to ensure the delivery of quality healthcare. This support is vital for achieving key health outcomes such as increased life expectancy and reduced maternal, infant, and child mortality rates. An appeal was made to all sectors of society, including government, law enforcement, and community-based structures, to collaborate in making health facilities safer.

Mohale urged that nurses must be able to care for the sick and deliver essential services without fear of becoming victims of crime. The theme for International Nurses Day 2025 is "Our nurses. Our future. Caring for nurses strengthens economies," underscoring the importance of investing in the health workforce to deliver high-quality care, strengthen healthcare systems, and enhance global economic resilience.

International Nurses Day, celebrated annually on May 12, honours the birth of Florence Nightingale, widely regarded as the founder of modern nursing. Looking ahead, Mohale announced that the department will recruit an additional 200 nurses in the coming months. This initiative is part of the phased implementation of the Human Resources for Health Strategy 2030, aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage and reducing staff burnout.

Mohale concluded that a well-staffed, skilled, and supported health workforce is essential for delivering affordable, accessible, and quality healthcare services for all, as envisioned in the NHI Act. Additionally, a nurse from Netcare, Sr Julia Makola, visited Allen Park during their vaccination roll-out to facilitate injections, educate recipients, and ensure their comfort throughout the process.