Limpopo Provincial Department of Health, together with key stakeholders in health spearheaded by DENOSA as ICN affiliate, held another successful annual International Nurses Day celebration at Ngoako Ramathlodi Sports Complex in Seshego outside Polokwane in Limpopo where more than 3000 nurses converged from all regions to commemorate the birth of the pioneer of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale.  The day also marked the renewal of nurses’ pledge, a solemn oath to dedicate oneself to the service of humanity. Other key stakeholders included trade unions, GERMS and Old Mutual. 

MEC of Health in the province, Ishmael Kgetjepe, and DENOSA Acting General Secretary, Madithapo Masemola, were among the guests. Nurses and student nurses of all sectors from public, private (Medi-Clinic), Correctional and Military were all part of the prestigious event. Held under the theme: Nurses: A Force for Change; Care Effective, Cost Effective, which was unpacked by Masemola. She urged every nurse in the country to be supportive of the National Health Insurance (NHI) as it is in line with realise both care and cost effectiveness of a nurse in the country’s healthcare system. She also urged nurses to embrace the Positive Practice Environment (PPE) campaign that nurses have embarked on with doctors since 2013, to bring about positive change to the practicing environment in health facilities throughout the country. 

MEC Kgetjepe congratulated nurses for the sterling job they continue to do in improving the lives of citizens of Limpopo, often solely. He said he knew there are many challenges, but said the department was trying to improve the conditions of both nurses and student nurses at both health facilities and colleges. 

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