TEMBISA HOSPITAL FIRE: CASUALTY UNIT BURNED DOWN, NO NEW PATIENTS ACCEPTED

The Gauteng Department of Health has confirmed that the fire which broke out on Saturday, 19 April 2025, has severely damaged the Accident and Emergency Unit —commonly known as the Casualty area—at Tembisa Provincial Tertiary Hospital.

Visuals from the scene reveal charred debris, fallen ceilings, and extensive smoke damage inside the casualty unit. Firefighters and emergency teams responded swiftly, and thanks to the quick actions of staff, 85 people were safely evacuated. There were no injuries or fatalities.

What Causes The Tembisa Hospital Fire?

Speaking on the matter, Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko said that the cause of the fire is still unknown and investigations are ongoing. The area most affected is where new patients are typically admitted.

As a result:

• No new patients will be accepted until further notice.
• Existing patients will continue receiving care inside the hospital.
• Visiting hours continue as normal.
• 1If you are concerned about a loved one, the hospital can be contacted at 011 923 2000.

Where Will Patients Be Redirected To?

In the interim, patients in need of urgent care are being redirected to Edenvale Hospital or local clinics in Tembisa, depending on the severity of their condition.

Tembisa Hospital History of Corruption:

It is not yet clear when the hospital will reopen the damaged casualty unit. A tender process must be followed to appoint a service provider to rebuild the destroyed section.

This comes at a time when Tembisa Hospital is already under public scrutiny. The hospital has been at the centre of a nearly R1 billion corruption scandal, with Babita Deokaran, a whistleblower and official, having flagged 217 suspicious companies before her assassination in 2021.

When Will The Casualty Reopen?

KAE News will continue to monitor and report on developments, including the investigation outcome, the rebuilding process, and patient care updates.