04 Aug 2026

The Edison Setlhomo Masisi Memorial Hospital in Moshupa will only open once all critical systems are fully tested, regulatory approvals are secured and the facility is equipped to deliver safe care.

This was said by Assistant Minister of Health, Mr Lawrence Ookeditse, responding to a parliamentary question on Monday.

Mr Ookeditse assured legislators that while the official opening date would be announced upon handover, government remained committed to safety over speed.

The assistant minister was responding to questions from Moshupa-Manyana MP, Mr Karabo Gare regarding why the facility missed its targeted April 2026 launch.

Mr Ookeditse stated that technical and installation hurdles prevented operationalisation.

“The contractor has substantially completed all construction works and the project currently stands at 99 per cent completion, having remained at this level since October 2025. 

The remaining activities relate primarily to testing, commissioning and installation of specialised systems and equipment required before the hospital could safely commence operations,” he said.

He indicated that key delays involved the installation and commissioning of X-ray machines, hospital communication system (PABX) and ICT networking infrastructure. 

“The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure is resolving these issues, while the health ministry expedites furniture, computer and medical equipment procurement, targeted for completion by August 14,” he added.

He further said despite equipment setbacks, workforce preparation was on track, adding that 80 per cent of the approved staff establishment had been recruited and meeting operational requirements.

“Some officers are currently stationed at the hospital, while others have been deployed to nearby health facilities within Kanye District, Moshupa, Mabutsane and Jwaneng District Council to continue providing services pending commissioning of the hospital,” he said.

To date, he noted, only the administration block and procurement stores had been occupied since January this year. 

Parliament also heard that construction initially began in September 2019 and missed previous completion targets of May 2022 and August 2024.

Meanwhile, the assistant minister said the ministry was awaiting a revised completion schedule from the contractor to finalise system testing, regulatory occupancy permits and official handover. ENDS