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On the anniversary of Oliver Reginald Tambo’s birth, the Eastern Cape Department of Health has launched a new initiative to carry forward his legacy of compassion and equality through action.
MEC Ntandokazi Capa officially opened the OR Tambo Orthopaedic Backlog Reduction Campaign at Bedford Orthopaedic Hospital in Mthatha on 27 October 2025. The six-month provincial drive focuses on restoring mobility, dignity, and quality of life for patients who have waited years for critical orthopaedic procedures.
What the Campaign Will Do
The department has mobilised specialised surgical teams across the province. They will perform high-volume orthopaedic operations, extend theatre hours, and hold weekend “surgical marathons” to clear long-standing backlogs.
Key features of the OR Tambo Orthopaedic Campaign:
- Runs from October 2025 to April 2026
- Targets hip, knee, and limb reconstructive surgeries
- Expands theatre hours at Mthatha, Port Elizabeth, and East London hospitals
- Involves rotating surgical teams from district and tertiary hospitals
- Aims to cut orthopaedic waiting lists by up to 60%
Campaign Timeline
| Phase | Period | Focus Area | Lead Facility |
| Phase 1 | Oct – Dec 2025 | Hip and knee replacements | Bedford Orthopaedic Hospital |
| Phase 2 | Jan – Feb 2026 | Limb reconstruction & trauma | Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital |
| Phase 3 | Mar – Apr 2026 | Paediatric orthopaedics | Frere Hospital |
A Living Tribute to OR Tambo
The campaign runs symbolically between Tambo’s birth and passing, underscoring his enduring commitment to equality and service. “This is more than a health project — it is a moral duty to restore movement and dignity,” said MEC Capa.
