The Cancer Alliance and other organisations have filed a lawsuit against the Gauteng department of health (GDoH) alleging that R784-million meant for cancer patients was improperly allocated.
Sunday World understands that the funds came from the Gauteng Treasury in 2023. They were intended to provide cancer patients with lifesaving treatment. The funds were to also clear the radiation and surgical backlogs in the province.
The Cancer Alliance is a collective group of cancer control NGOs and cancer advocates. It provides a platform for cancer civil society to affect change for all South African adults and children affected by cancer.
The alliance filed an application in the Gauteng High Court against the Gauteng health MEC, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko. Nine other officials and the provincial department are named in the lawsuit.
Department accused of ceasing communication regarding funds
The case will be heard on 23 July.
“Following the allocation of the funds, Cancer Alliance and SECTION27 met twice with Gauteng Health officials. At the last meeting on 2 June 2023, the Gauteng department of Health committed to a plan to use the allocated funding to address the backlog in providing radiation oncology services,” said the organisations and the Treatment Action Campaign in a media statement recently.
“A key decision by Gauteng Health was to outsource the provision of radiation oncology services. The agreed-upon plan was for the GDoH to appoint a service provider by early August 2023. However, shortly after our June 2023 meeting, the department abruptly ceased all communication with Cancer Alliance and SECTION27.”
Department says it’s all about the tender awarded
Meanwhile, the department said it is aware of the legal application and they will be fighting the issue in court.
Motalatale Modiba, Gauteng health spokesperson, said it is crucial to clarify the matter. He said the Cancer Alliance’s application is principally motivated by the awarding of a tender. In this regard, their preferred service provider was not able to participate within the validity period.
“The department takes these allegations seriously and is dedicated to maintaining transparency and accountability. We will continue to uphold our responsibilities. And we will ensure that all funds are utilised appropriately to benefit cancer patients.
“The department remains committed to providing essential healthcare services for the people of Gauteng. We continue to comply with all requirements. This to ensure that radiation oncology services are delivered to all patients who need them,” Modiba concluded.
