The long-awaited renovation and rebuilding of Greenville Hospital officially kicked off this week with the introduction of the appointed contractor for Phase 1 of the R168 million project.
The Eastern Cape Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, in partnership with the Department of Health, handed over the site to the main contractor, marking the beginning of a 30-month construction timeline. The project promises substantial community upliftment, including over 450 job opportunities, support for local businesses, and skills development initiatives.
“This marks a significant milestone in our healthcare and infrastructure development agenda,” said Ms Caba, MEC for Health. “This is my first major contract as MEC, and we are counting on the community to support it responsibly.”
Three-Phase Development Plan
Phase 1 of the upgrade includes:
- Demolition of old hospital structures
- Construction of five residential blocks
- A new main hospital building
The remaining phases will roll out progressively, with further infrastructural and service delivery enhancements expected.
Local Leadership and Employment Quotas
Ward councillors, including Cllr Mafumbatha and Executive Mayor Cllr Mhlelembana, emphasized that job and business opportunities must prioritise residents from Ward 21, where the hospital is located. Mafumbatha specifically advocated for skilled locals such as pro-painters from the Greenville area to be given first preference.
However, tensions arose during the community engagement when it was announced that the contract would benefit workers and businesses across eight wards. Some residents strongly opposed the inclusion of surrounding areas, arguing that Ward 21 residents fought alone for the hospital’s redevelopment and should thus receive exclusive priority.
“They want to share the benefits, but when we needed support, we stood alone,” one resident said during the meeting.
MEC Caba’s Warning to the Community
In response to rising frustrations, MEC Caba appealed for calm, warning that the future of the project could be jeopardised by community instability.
“If this project is disrupted, I will move the funding to where it will be appreciated,” she cautioned. A compromise was eventually reached: 60% of job opportunities will go to Ward 21, while the remaining 40% will be shared among neighbouring areas.
Community Response
Despite earlier tensions, many residents expressed optimism and relief that a long-standing struggle had finally yielded results. “This project will not only improve access to healthcare but also stimulate our local economy,” said one community leader.
The hospital redevelopment is expected to be a transformative investment in public health and economic opportunity for the Greenville region—if community unity holds.
