14 September 2026 | Durban, South Africa

The Islamic Medical Association of South Africa (IMASA), Durban Branch, facilitated a meeting between the Unemployed Doctors Association (UDA) and the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Honourable Mr Thami Ntuli, and the Head of Department of Health, Mrs Penny Msimango.

The meeting was convened to address the critical shortage of Medical Officer and Registrar posts in the public healthcare sector and to find sustainable solutions to safeguard patient care.

Matters for Discussion included:
1. The plight of unemployed doctors and the way forward to provide quality care in public hospitals
2. Challenges facing patients in public hospitals

We extend sincere appreciation to the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Honourable Mr Narend Singh, for facilitating this important engagement.

UDA was represented by Dr Raeesa Kathrada, Dr Tholumusa Sibiya and Dr Yanga Mbele. IMASA was represented by Chairman Mr Solly Suleman, Dr M.H. Suleman and Mrs Yasiera Suliman.

Discussions were robust and constructive, with the Premier expressing concern over the impact of staffing constraints on healthcare delivery. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continued engagement to create additional posts and mobilise funding – essential steps to support both patients and overburdened doctors in the public sector.

#IMASAReflectCareHeal