Communities across the province can expect more responsive emergency medical services as the Mpumalanga Department of Health has strengthened its fleet with the addition of 15 new ambulances.
Premier Mandla Ndlovu and Health MEC, Sasekani Manzini unveiled the new ambulances at the Mbombela Stadium yesterday.
The latest addition brings the province closer to its target of expanding emergency medical services across all communities.
The Premier said the provincial government aims to increase the fleet to 204 ambulances, which would enable two wards out of the province’s 400 wards to share an ambulance.
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“We need to have enough ambulances. However, in terms of our target ratio, I don’t think we are there yet. The MEC and I had hoped that we would reach that target during this financial year, but unfortunately we have not.
Today, we handed over additional ambulances to strengthen our 180 out of 204 target of emergency medical services fleet and better meet the growing demand within our communities.
— Mandla Ndlovu 🇿🇦 (@Mandla_Ndl) July 2, 2026
Our goal is for every two wards, out of the province's 400 wards, to share an ambulance that will… pic.twitter.com/PmqZcbhAPb
“This is a journey, and we will eventually achieve our goal of 204 ambulances. Please take care of these vehicles. I also want to express my appreciation to our healthcare workers who continue to care for our people,” said Ndlovu.
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He also urged motorists to make way for emergency medical service vehicles, emphasising that they transport patients who require urgent medical attention. “When you see the flashing red lights and hear the siren, you should know that we have the right of way because we are carrying sick and injured patients.
“We want to ensure that they arrive at our healthcare facilities on time. Even during protests, people must allow ambulances to pass because they have the right of way,” he said.
