Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital in Umlazi, south of Durban, is facing a severe water crisis, leaving patients and staff struggling with the lack of water for basic needs. For over a week, the hospital has been without a reliable water supply, forcing patients to bring their own water for bathing and flushing toilets. One patient, 55, shared her frustration, highlighting the need for urgent intervention from the Health Department to ensure proper hygiene and sanitation in the hospital, especially with so many people suffering from different illnesses.
The Public Servants Association (PSA) has raised concerns, calling for the South African Human Rights Commission to address the ongoing crisis. The situation is being viewed as a violation of human rights, given the essential role water plays in maintaining hospital cleanliness and patient care. Several patients, frustrated by the lack of basic services, have been forced to leave the facility due to the unbearable conditions.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health has acknowledged the ongoing water supply issue, which has been affecting the hospital and parts of Umlazi since February 2, 2025. While the eThekwini Municipality is responsible for water provision, the hospital has taken steps to mitigate the impact of the disruption. These measures include deploying water tankers to supply JoJo tanks and mobile storage facilities, ensuring critical areas of the hospital and staff residences continue to receive water.
Despite the difficult circumstances, the Health Department is working closely with the eThekwini Municipality and other partners to find a solution. In the meantime, bottled water is being purchased, and additional supplies are being provided by NGOs. While the situation remains far from ideal, the department assures the public that they are doing everything possible to prioritize patient care and resolve the crisis as swiftly as possible.
