MEC Sasekani Manzini unveils New Dental Unit at Phola Ntsikazi Clinic, bringing quality oral health services closer to the community.
Credits: Sasekani Manzini (Facebook)
By Duncan Mnisi
The Mpumalanga Department of Health has officially opened the newly renovated Dental Unit at the Phola Nzikasi Community Health Centre (CHC), marking a significant step toward improving access to oral healthcare in the Ehlanzeni District.
The launch took place on Monday and was led by the MEC for Health, Sasekani Manzini, who was joined by MMC Morris Mazibane, local councillors and members of the Clinic Committee. The event highlighted the province’s ongoing efforts to strengthen health infrastructure and expand essential services at community level.
Phola Nzikasi CHC — one of the busiest community health centres in the district — now features a fully upgraded dental unit equipped to provide an expanded range of services. These include tooth fillings, professional cleanings and treatment for various oral and dental diseases, enabling residents to receive much-needed care closer to home.
MEC Manzini emphasised that the upgraded facility represents not only an infrastructure improvement but also an investment in dignity and equitable healthcare. “Our people will no longer need to travel long distances to access dental healthcare. These services are now at their doorstep,” she said. “The department will continue to strengthen the quality of healthcare delivery, particularly at primary healthcare level.”
Officials noted that the project forms part of the broader Mpumalanga Oral Health Strategy (2025–2034), which aims to revitalise oral health services across the province and advance the vision of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
The successful renovation is also attributed to strong collaboration between the Health Technology Unit and the Oral Health Programme — a partnership that has helped reduce unnecessary hospital referrals, boosted staff morale and improved the overall patient experience.
The upgraded unit is expected to serve as a model for integrated, people-centred oral healthcare, demonstrating how strengthened primary healthcare facilities can contribute to better long-term health outcomes for communities.
