Frere Hospital, East London, South Africa

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Frere Hospital, East London, South Africa

Frere Hospital is a government tertiary hospital, situated in East London in the Province of the Eas

Frere Hospital offers more than 850 beds within the institution as well as several dedicated wards for different specialties, general wards and outpatient clinics. Frere Hospital is well known for its specialized services such as a state of the art oncology unit, high-tech Neonatal and Pediatric ICU’s, a large maternity wing equipped with nurseries which cater to both mothers and babies. Apart fro

m the general and specialized services offered at Frere Hospital, there are also a number of clinical support services rendered at the institution providing excellent care to our patients. Our clinical support services includes Dietetics, Occupational Therapy, Orthotics and Prosthetic, Physiotherapy, Radiology, Radiation Oncology Treatment, Speech and Audiology Therapy.

08/09/2026

FRERE HOSPITAL’S NEW HEAD OF NURSING CHARTS A VISION FOR EXCELLENCE

Frere Hospital has welcomed Ms Annetta David as its newly appointed Head of Nursing, bringing more than 22 years of experience in the Department of Health and extensive expertise in clinical nursing, management, education and professional development.

Ms David takes on the leadership of Nursing Services with a clear vision centred on excellence, compassion, professionalism and patient-centred care. Her appointment marks a new chapter in a career shaped by continuous learning and dedication to nursing.

“I feel deeply honoured and humbled by this appointment. It is a privilege to be entrusted with leading the Nursing Services at Frere Hospital, an institution with such a critical role in the Eastern Cape. I feel a great sense of responsibility but also excitement and readiness to serve”, she said.

Her professional journey began with a four-year Diploma in Comprehensive Nursing Science, covering General Nursing, Community Nursing, Psychiatry and Midwifery under R425. She later completed qualifications in Health Service Management, Executive Management, Nursing Education and Clinical Nursing Science, Health Assessment, Treatment and Care. She is also a qualified Moderator and Assessor and is currently studying Public Health.

In her new role, Ms David aims to advance nursing governance, professional standards and compliance with the Ideal Hospital Framework, while supporting staff development and positive working conditions. She will also prioritise continuous professional development, in-service training, mentorship and opportunities for professional growth and specialisation.

Patient-centred care remains central to her vision, with a focus on the Batho Pele Principles, infection prevention and control, efficient service delivery, quality improvement and patient safety. She further promotes multidisciplinary teamwork, recognising that healthcare professionals must work together towards positive patient outcomes.

As she begins her tenure, Ms David acknowledges the trust placed in Frere Hospital by the community and calls for a constructive partnership.

“We hear your concerns, and we are committed to serving you with dignity, compassion and quality care. Please partner with us by respecting our staff and facilities as we work to improve our services for you”, she added.

Frere Hospital welcomes Ms David into her new role and looks forward to her contribution towards advancing Nursing Services and promoting quality, compassionate care for the communities it serves.

07/09/2026

Frere Tertiary Hospital kicked off Physio Week 2026 on 7 September with a 2km walk, stretching and movement activities aimed at promoting physical activity and raising awareness of the vital role physiotherapy plays in healthcare.

From 13:00 to 14:00, physiotherapists joined employees from across the hospital for a walk that started at B Side Casualty, continued towards the Orthopaedic area and returned to B Side Casualty. Participants also took part in stretching and enjoyed some dancing along the route, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere.

This year’s Physio Week, taking place from 7–11 September 2026, aligns with World Physiotherapy Day under the theme: “The role of physiotherapy and physical activity in the prevention, management, and rehabilitation of cardiovascular disease and stroke.”

The week aims to promote awareness of the value of physiotherapy among staff, patients and the wider community, while highlighting the importance of movement and physical activity in preventing chronic disease, supporting recovery and promoting lifelong health.

Throughout the week, Frere Hospital will continue to highlight the contribution of physiotherapists to patient-centred care, rehabilitation, independence and improved quality of life.

31/08/2026

Frere Hospital's EAP Department hosted a Women's Day event on 28 August 2026 at John Tremble Hall, bringing together inspiring voices to celebrate, empower, and uplift women in our workplace and community.

Dr Rulumeni, a doctor in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Frere Hospital, kicked things off with an insightful talk on women's health, encouraging every woman to prioritise herself by scheduling regular check-ups. She came bearing gifts, quizzing the ladies on health-related questions, with correct answers walking away with a special gift.

Mrs Saffa, who was the second speaker, brought the energy with her powerful motivational talk, "I Am The Best," reminding every woman in the room of her strength, worth, and potential to be the best version of herself. She also spoiled the ladies with gifts of her own.

Sanlam rounded off on financial wellness, encouraging women to build financial literacy and take charge of their financial futures while they still can

Liberty Life added extra sparkle by gifting the best tables with vouchers

Mrs Kelenjani-EAP Practitioner mentioned that getting the ladies involved in setting up their own tables encouraged teamwork, collaboration, and connection prior to and throughout the event.

Frere management ensures that women are taken care of, having platforms to vent and share experiences for their wellness. They left feeling motivated, empowered, and appreciated.

A huge thank you to our incredible speakers and sponsors, and to every woman who joined us to learn, connect, and celebrate.

29/08/2026

ROYAL FAMILY AND KAT LEISURE GROUP SUPPORT FRERE HOSPITAL’S WARD C11

Frere Tertiary Hospital’s Ward C11 received a handover from the Mama HRH Princess Nomfuyo Magadla Foundation, in partnership with KAT Leisure Group, on Friday, 28 August 2026. The handover included toiletries, surgical masks, linen and snacks, which will provide practical support to the 20 patients currently receiving care in the ward.

The initiative was undertaken in memory of the late Her Royal Highness Princess Nomfuyo Magadla and as an expression of gratitude for the care she received at Frere Hospital. Through the gesture, the Royal Family and its partners sought to honour her legacy while supporting patients and recognising the healthcare professionals who continue to provide compassionate care to those in need.

Her Majesty Queen Mapotelwa highlighted that the occasion was also about recognising healthcare professionals and the positive contribution they make to patients and communities. “Today is not only about honouring the Princess, but it is also about making the health professionals feel that they are appreciated and, most importantly, for them to have a heart that always wants to help. The health industry should also be known for the positive work taking place within it. As royalties, we are here to show that good things are coming out of this industry and that we need to work together”, she said.

The atmosphere in Ward C11 was filled with appreciation as the ward matron and nursing team welcomed the handover, knowing that the items would directly benefit their patients. Their response reflected the value of partnerships that provide practical assistance while encouraging healthcare workers in their daily service.

Frere Hospital Chief Executive Officer, Mr Sicelo Msi, welcomed the handover and highlighted the practical value of the items for patients and healthcare workers in Ward C11. He noted that the surgical masks would be particularly valuable in the ward, where patients with various medical conditions, including tuberculosis, receive care. He also expressed appreciation to the Royal Family and KAT Leisure Group for recognising the needs of patients and contributing to their wellbeing. “We really appreciate this gesture from the Royal Family and KAT Leisure Group. The items handed over will make a meaningful difference to our patients, particularly the surgical masks, which are important in a ward where we care for patients with different conditions, including tuberculosis. We are grateful for the support and for recognising the needs of our patients and the work being done by our staff,” Mr Msi said.

Dr Mthandeki Xamlashe, Acting Head of Department at the Eastern Cape Department of Health, highlighted the importance of recognising healthcare workers whose daily efforts contribute to the wellbeing of patients and the broader healthcare system. “We would like to sincerely thank the Royal Family and KAT Leisure Group for this meaningful gesture and for choosing to support our patients and nurses. This is also a great recognition of the work that our nurses are doing. Their work has an impact not only on the patients they care for, but on the hospital and the Department as a whole. We appreciate the compassion and dedication they continue to show every day, and we are grateful that their contribution is being recognised and supported in this way,” Dr Xamlashe emphasised.

The handover carries a deeper significance for Ward C11, as it not only provides practical support to the 20 patients currently receiving care, but also honours the memory of Princess Nomfuyo Magadla through an act of kindness. For the nursing team, the gesture serves as a reminder that their work is seen and appreciated, while for patients, it brings comfort and support during their time in hospital. The continued collaboration between the Foundation, KAT Leisure Group, Frere Hospital and the Department reflects the value of working together to strengthen support for patients and healthcare workers.

14/08/2026

NEWLY QUALIFIED ONCOLOGIST JOINS FRERE HOSPITAL’S CANCER CARE TEAM

Frere Tertiary Hospital has welcomed 33-year-old newly qualified oncologist Dr. Lazola Buthi to its oncology team, bringing specialist expertise closer to cancer patients in the Eastern Cape. Originally from Qumbu, Dr Buthi has returned to the province after years of medical training and specialist development, with a commitment to serving communities closer to home.

After completing his undergraduate medical training at Walter Sisulu University between 2011 and 2016, Dr Buthi completed his internship at Addington Hospital in Durban before returning to the Eastern Cape, where he served as a Medical Officer at the 14th South African Infantry Battalion.

His interest in oncology developed during his internship, when he encountered cancer patients while rotating through the wards. His curiosity about radiation therapy grew into a passion for oncology, particularly after recognising the gap between patients’ needs and available oncology services. “My curiosity about radiation sparked a passion for the field. I decided to pursue a career in oncology after recognising the significant gap between patient care needs and the available oncology services,” Dr Buthi explained.

In 2020, he joined oncology as a Medical Officer before securing a registrar position in 2021 for specialist training at Steve Biko Academic Hospital. The demanding training journey, while away from his family and support network, strengthened his resilience and deepened his commitment to oncology.

Having completed his specialist training, Dr Buthi returned to the Eastern Cape and joined Frere Tertiary Hospital as a qualified oncologist. As a consultant, he sees oncology patients, works with the clinical team to facilitate chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and supports registrars through academic tutorials, mock examinations and research.

He is particularly passionate about decentralising oncology services to district and primary healthcare facilities, especially for rural communities where patients may travel long distances for specialised care. He believes earlier detection can reduce delays and improve treatment outcomes.

For him, oncology is also about witnessing patients regain their dignity and return to their families, work and communities. His message to the public is one of hope and early action. “A cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence”, Dr. Buthi affirmed, encouraging people with unusual symptoms, such as unexplained lumps or persistent pain, to seek medical attention.

For Frere Tertiary Hospital, his arrival adds specialist expertise to its oncology team and supports the hospital’s commitment to quality cancer care, academic development and services that respond to the needs of communities across the Eastern Cape. The hospital warmly welcomes Dr Buthi to the team and looks forward to his contribution to strengthening oncology services and improving the care experience for patients and their families. For Dr Buthi, it is the beginning of a new chapter of service, growth and giving back to the community he calls home.

06/08/2026

FRERE TERTIARY HOSPITAL WELCOMES A NEW EMERGENCY MEDICINE SPECIALIST

Frere Hospital has strengthened its Emergency Department with the appointment of Dr Johnré Els (36) as its new Emergency Medicine Specialist. Dr Els recently joined the hospital, returning to the institution where he first discovered his passion for emergency medicine during his internship in 2016. His appointment reinforces Frere Hospital's commitment to strengthening emergency care and improving patient outcomes across Buffalo City Metro and the Eastern Cape.

Dr Els completed his undergraduate medical studies at the University of the Free State before beginning his internship at Frere Hospital. After completing his community service in Prince Albert, he returned as a medical officer before relocating to the Western Cape to specialise in Emergency Medicine. Having completed his specialist training, he chose to return to Frere Hospital to contribute to the healthcare system that shaped his career. "I started my journey and fell in love with emergency medicine at this facility. After completing my specialist training, I decided to come back to help improve emergency care in the Eastern Cape, specifically at Frere Hospital and within the Buffalo City Metro," he said.

Dr Els said his priorities include delivering high-quality patient care, strengthening staff development through continuous training and establishing postgraduate specialist training at Frere Hospital to help develop future emergency medicine specialists. "Patient care comes first. We want every patient who arrives at our Emergency Department to receive safe, appropriate and high-quality care. At the same time, we want to train our staff, improve the system and develop Frere Hospital into a centre for postgraduate emergency medicine training," he emphasised.

Looking ahead, Dr Els outlined his vision for the department and the province. "My goal and vision are to provide the best emergency care in the region, the province and ultimately the country for patients who present to the Emergency Department. I also want to develop the department into a leading training centre for future emergency medicine specialists while supporting referring hospitals across the Eastern Cape through outreach, mentorship and training to strengthen patient care," he concluded.

Frere Hospital welcomes Dr Johnré Els to the multidisciplinary team and looks forward to the positive impact his expertise, leadership and commitment to excellence will have on emergency healthcare services and the patients who rely on them every day.

30/07/2026

Frere Hospital hosted a two-day Decentralisation of Oncology Services to District Health Services Workshop at the East London Health Resource Centre from 28–29 July 2026 under the theme, “Supporting Cancer Patients Closer to Home Safely”.

The initiative brought together healthcare professionals from district hospitals across the Eastern Cape to advance safe, accessible and patient-centred oncology services.

Convened in response to the growing burden of cancer, the programme aimed to strengthen partnerships between tertiary oncology units and district health services while equipping healthcare workers with the knowledge and skills to support the safe decentralisation of selected oncology services. It also reinforced the role of district healthcare workers in cancer prevention, early detection, screening, referral, survivorship care, symptom management and palliative care. Delegates were welcomed by Dr Mthandeki Xamlashe, DDG: Hospital and Clinical Support Services.

Scientific sessions were facilitated by Dr P. Sauls, Dr S. Mandondo, Dr N. Ngxola, Dr Tripathi, Dr B. van Emmenes and Dr Buthi, covering cancer recognition, oncology emergencies, referral pathways and multidisciplinary patient management.

Closing the workshop, Dr Z. Jafta, Academic Head of Oncology at Frere Hospital, outlined a framework for district implementation, telemedicine, workforce development, improved cancer data management and collaboration across all levels of care. The workshop concluded with the presentation of certificates to participants in recognition of their commitment to strengthening oncology services in their respective districts.

28/07/2026

Frere Hospital proudly wishes two of its dedicated employees the very best as they take on the prestigious Washie 100 Miler, South Africa's oldest 100-mile (161 km) road ultra-marathon.

Mr Phikisile Menjenjalo, a Laundry Worker at Frere Hospital, will participate in the gruelling 161 km race, while Mr Vuka Sam, Assistant Director: Finance, will serve as a seconder during the race, providing vital support throughout the journey.

The Washie 100 Miler starts at 17:00 on Friday, 31 July 2026, at the Cathcart Country Club and concludes on Saturday, 1 August 2026, at the Buffs Club in Quigney, East London, with participants required to complete the race within 26 hours.

Their commitment, determination and resilience reflect the spirit of excellence that defines the Frere Hospital family. The hospital wishes them every success as they take on this remarkable endurance challenge and proudly represent the institution.

23/07/2026

THE OFFICIAL HANDOVER OF DREAM ROOM BRINGS HOPE TO YOUNG PATIENTS AT FRERE TERTIARY HOSPITAL

Frere Hospital today officially received a Dream Room in Paediatric Wards C3 and C4 made possible through a partnership between Cell C and the Reach For A Dream Foundation. The official handover brought together hospital management, healthcare professionals, donors and stakeholders to unveil a child-friendly space designed to provide comfort, hope and learning for young patients receiving care at the hospital.

Speaking during the ceremony, Reach For A Dream Foundation representative, Mrs Lwanele Mpeta, said the Dream Room was created to give children who spend extended periods in hospital a safe environment where they can play, learn and simply enjoy being children. She explained that the room features educational activities, virtual reality (VR), PlayStations and interactive resources that help reduce anxiety and support children's emotional wellbeing.

Welcoming the initiative, Head of Paediatric Oncology, Dr Karla Thomas, said the Dream Room will help restore a sense of normalcy for children and provide reassurance to families during difficult times. “This is really helping us to normalise childhood as much as we can”, she said, adding that the play facilities give children something positive to look forward to during their treatment journey.

Representing Cell C, Ms Boitumelo Nawe said the company's partnership with the Reach For A Dream Foundation reflects its commitment to investing in communities through meaningful corporate social investment initiatives that bring comfort and hope to young patients.

Frere Hospital CEO, Mr Sicelo Msi, thanked Cell C, the Reach For A Dream Foundation and the hospital team for making the project possible. “The Dream Room is more than just a playground for children. It creates hope for families coming into our hospital and demonstrates what can be achieved through meaningful partnerships," he said.

The Dream Room is expected to make a lasting difference in the lives of children receiving care at Frere Hospital by creating a space that promotes play, learning and emotional wellbeing. The initiative reflects the impact of collaboration in enhancing patient-centred care and bringing hope to young patients and their families.

22/07/2026

Colleagues, friends, healthcare professionals and members of the Ndwandwe family gathered today at the John Tremble Hall at Frere Tertiary Hospital for a memorial service celebrating the life and legacy of the late Dr Miriam Mmabatho Ndwandwe.

The service was filled with heartfelt tributes, reflections and messages of comfort as speakers honoured Dr Ndwandwe's unwavering commitment to healthcare, her exceptional leadership and the lasting impact she made on patients, colleagues and the Eastern Cape Department of Health. Her legacy of service, excellence and compassion will continue to inspire generations to come.

Address

Main Road, Amalinda Drive
East London
5247

Website

http://www.fh.echealth.gov.za/

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