Following the incident on 24 December 2022 when a gas tanker exploded while stuck under a low bridge in Boksburg, claiming 41 lives – including 12 nurses from Tambo Memorial Hospital, and damaging the hospital itself – the Republic of Mozambique Pipeline Investments Company (ROMPCO) stepped in to prioritise the hospital’s restoration as part of its Corporate Social Investment (CSI) programme. A special handing over ceremony was held on 1 March to celebrate the successful completion of the project and acknowledge ROMPCO’s involvement.

One of the oldest hospitals in Gauteng, Tambo Memorial Hospital in Gauteng serves the communities of Benoni, Boksburg, and part of Germiston, catering to a population of over one million. It offers essential services to both inpatients and outpatients.

Recognising the immediate need for support to restore the hospital’s infrastructure following the tragic incident, ROMPCO engaged with hospital management to identify priority areas where their assistance could make a meaningful impact. Through extensive discussions and collaboration, the project to install comprehensive hospital signage emerged as a critical component of the restoration efforts.

“Our involvement in the project was extensive and committed,” comments ROMPCO CEO Mlandzeni Boyce. After pledging R1.5 million towards aiding the hospital’s recovery, the next step was to determine the scope and requirements of the signage project.

The project met the hospital’s needs by providing both internal and external signage, including additional signage as requested by the hospital during the review process. ROMPCO’s commitment extended beyond financial support to include project management and oversight to ensure the successful completion of the signage installation.

The project aligns with ROMPCO’s broader strategy, which focuses on making a positive and sustainable impact on the communities in which it operates. It encompasses support for education and health initiatives, in addition to infrastructure development.

“By supporting the restoration of Tambo Memorial Hospital, we demonstrate our commitment to social responsibility and community development. The project reflects our belief in contributing to the well-being and resilience of local communities, particularly in times of need,” says Boyce.

Projects like the installation of comprehensive hospital signage benefit local communities in various ways, comments Zenzo Ndabula, CEO of Tambo Memorial Hospital. Firstly, they contribute to the restoration and enhancement of essential infrastructure, such as healthcare facilities, which are vital for the well-being and safety of community members.

Improved signage facilitates smoother navigation within the hospital, enhances communication, and fosters a better patient experience. Additionally, such projects create employment opportunities and stimulate economic activity within the community, thereby promoting socioeconomic development and empowerment.

“We are grateful to ROMPCO for selecting us to be part of its CSI programme. It is testament to the company’s underlying belief and values that education and health are two of the main areas where local communities are best empowered and uplifted. We call upon other private-sector companies to become involved in the local communities in which they operate. Together, we can make a difference to the quality of life and healthcare and education needs of numerous South Africans,” concludes Ndabula.