Local humanitarian NGO, Islamic Relief South Africa (IRSA) had the honour of attending the Khayelitsha medical equipment handover on Wednesday, 11th September, 2019.
The event was hosted by SAME foundation to thank donors for life saving medical equipment including a Hamilton C1 ventilator, ultrasound DC40 machines, patient trolleys, mattresses, beds and chairs. The equipment would assist the hospital to run more efficiently, particularly benefitting the mental health patients and the emergency care unit.
Khayelitsha district hospital is one of the busiest district hospitals in the Western Cape but faces many challenges operating from an informal settlement with a large pool of patients in dire need of medical care. “If you look at the equipment we have and the number of patients we receive you will see the stark difference. The hospital has been striving to care for all its patients but struggles due to a shortage in resources. A donation like this has such a great impact as we are able to reach more lives,” said Dr. Hendrick Lategan, head of emergency at the Khayelitsha hospital.
Sharing his sentiments on the handover Islamic Relief SA CEO, Yusuf Mohamed said “Our organisation has a deep commitment to help people, especially here in South Africa, to access vital services and basic rights they are entitled to. Together with our partner offices around the world, we are constantly striving to make the world a better and fairer place for those plagued with circumstances beyond their control.”
“When Same Association approached us to contribute to this wonderful cause, of equipping and assisting Khayelitsha hospital, we went on board with no hesitation. It is of great honour that we are able to join forces with those at the forefront of making a real impact in the health and welfare of our people,” he added.
Islamic Relief South Africa is the local branch of an international humanitarian organisation dedicated to providing emergency relief and helping vulnerable people to access basic services, including education, water and sanitation, as well as healthcare. The organisation also aspires to provide lasting routes out of poverty, through sustainable livelihoods schemes, and endeavours to be instrumental, in tackling the root causes of poverty and making sure, that our community’s most vulnerable people, have a strong voice.
The NGO is celebrating 15 years of changing lives this coming November. To find out more about how you can get involved, donate or volunteer visit www.islamic-relief.org.za or contact 021 696 0145.