The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness is filling more than 800 vacancies as part of its R34.47 billion budget for 2026/27.
The department said this marks a shift from crisis response to rebuilding and strengthening the healthcare system.
Health MEC Mireille Wenger said the focus is now on improving frontline care in the province, while reducing pressure on facilities, and building a more responsive and resilient system in the Cape.
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For the next three years, the department said more than R106 billion will be invested in healthcare, including primary care, emergency services, digital systems, and prevention programmes.
This investment aims to deliver faster and more accessible care for all residents.
The Western Cape Health Department said that post-COVID pressure, staffing limits and rising demand have prompted the rebuild and investment.
Wenger said prevention remains at the centre of this approach, with continued focus on vaccinations, HIV and TB programmes, and community-based interventions to ease long-term pressure.
“We are investing in the future through prevention, better systems and stronger community-based care so that people can access care earlier, closer to home and with dignity.”
Despite budget constraints and national policy limits, Wenger said the province is positioning itself as proactive and forward-looking.
Puleng Maake
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