The Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA) has strongly criticised the government’s approval of only 200 new nursing posts for 2025, calling the measure insufficient to address the growing healthcare staffing crisis. The union argues that over 20 000 qualified nurses remain unemployed despite the sector’s urgent needs.
Following Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi’s announcement that 200 nursing posts will be approved for 2025, the union says more nurses are needed to bridge the gap in the sector.
Motsoaledi addressed various health issues in South Africa in a media briefing on 10 April 2025 in Centurion. These issues included the recruitment of doctors and health professionals and the procurement of health care.
New recruitment in the health sector
Motsoaledi announced that the National Health Council (NHC) approved job advertisements for:
- 1 200 doctors
- 200 nurses
- 250 other healthcare professionals.
According to EWN, DENOSA Secretary General Kwena Manamela said the National Health Council’s (NHC) recent recruitment drive is not meeting the health industry’s demands.
While the health minister did not clarify the reason behind allocating only 200 nursing posts, he mentioned that his department faced budget constraints.
DENOSA dissatisfied
Manamela further mentioned the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the health industry. “Some of our colleagues passed on due to the virus, and the government was unable to replace them. Therefore, the shortage has worsened.”
The nursing union’s secretary general said the union is inquiring about the method used for the new recruitment. “We are dissatisfied with the recruitment process. We are aware that there is a shortage of doctors and other health professionals; however, what method do they use?”
In January 2025, DENOSA voiced their concern that many healthcare workers face heavy workloads while 20 000 qualified nurses remain jobless.
Due to the staff shortage in various facilities, patients are forced to queue for long hours in public health facilities. Nurses are also experiencing burnout and mental health challenges due to excessive workloads.
DENOSA has also proposed steps to address the ongoing staffing crisis.
DENOSA addresses a way forward
Speaking on behalf of DENOSA, Manamela also stated that South Africa’s healthcare crisis requires bold, transformative leadership. This leadership must be grounded in action rather than lip service.
Do you think the government is doing enough to address the nurse shortage?
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