Parliament, Tuesday, 12 May 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on Health joins the global community in commemorating International Nurses Day and paying tribute to the dedication, resilience and invaluable contribution of nurses to South Africa’s healthcare system.
This year’s theme – Nurses: A Voice to Lead – Invest in Nursing and Respect Rights to Secure Global Health – underscores the critical role nurses play, not only in delivering frontline healthcare services, but also in strengthening health systems and advancing the rights and dignity of patients. Across the country, nurses continue to serve as the backbone of healthcare, often working under demanding conditions to ensure that communities receive the quality care they deserve.
Their contribution was particularly evident during times of crisis, including the COVID-19 pandemic, when nurses carried an immense burden with professionalism, compassion and unwavering commitment. Beyond their clinical responsibilities, nurses remain at the forefront of efforts to promote equitable access to healthcare and improve patient outcomes.
Committee Chairperson Ms Faith Muthambi said nurses remain at the heart of South Africa’s response to ongoing health challenges. “Nurses are the foundation of our healthcare system. Their resilience and dedication, even under difficult circumstances, continue to inspire the nation. We must ensure that their contribution is matched by meaningful support, recognition and investment,” she said.
Sustained investment in the nursing profession is critical to improving healthcare delivery. This includes strengthening education and training, improving working conditions, ensuring fair remuneration and addressing the mental health challenges nurses face in the course of their duties.
Ms Muthambi emphasised that failure to prioritise the well-being of nurses would have far-reaching consequences for the health system. “We cannot build a strong and responsive healthcare system without investing in those who sustain it every day. Supporting nurses is not only about recognising their contribution; it is about securing the future of healthcare in South Africa,” she added.
The committee calls on government, healthcare institutions and all stakeholders to work collaboratively to create an environment in which nurses are valued, supported and empowered to perform their duties effectively.
As International Nurses Day is commemorated, the committee reaffirms its commitment to advancing the interests of nurses and ensuring that their voices are heard in shaping the future of healthcare in the country.
ISSUED BY PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON HEALTH, MS FAITH MUTHAMBI.
For media enquiries or to arrange interviews with the Chairperson, please contact the Committee’s Media Officer:
Name: Ms Yoliswa Landu
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Email: ylandu@parliament.gov.za
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