CCN Reporting
The Manenberg Clinic in the Cape Flats has been forced to close until further notice, due to serious security threats.
This highlighting the ongoing impact of crime on essential public health services in the Western Cape.
According to an official announcement from the City of Cape Town, the clinic’s closure took effect immediately, with notices posted at the facility to inform the public. Patients already inside at the time of the announcement were being assisted and attended to. The City has directed residents to seek alternative care at the nearby Seawinds Clinic.
This development comes amid persistent challenges in the area, where gang-related violence, extortion attempts, and general criminal activity have repeatedly disrupted community services.
Manenberg, like several other townships on the Cape Flats, has long grappled with high levels of violent crime that spill over into public spaces, including healthcare facilities. Similar incidents have affected clinics elsewhere in the province, such as recent extortion-related closures and threats in Khayelitsha.
The City of Cape Town has not released specific details about the nature of the latest threats at Manenberg Clinic, but the decision underscores concerns over staff and patient safety. Health services remain critical in these communities for routine care, chronic disease management, immunisations, and maternal health.
Residents and community members have expressed frustration on social media and local groups, noting that the closure reflects the severity of crime levels, even essential services like clinics are no longer safe havens.
One local comment captured the sentiment: “Dis hoe erg misdaad op Kaapse Vlakte is… jy is nie eers meer veilig in kliniek nie.”
While acknowledging that, police are doing commendable work under difficult circumstances, many point to rapid population growth and resource strain in the Western Cape as contributing factors.
The City has urged affected residents to utilise the Seawinds Clinic for urgent needs in the interim.
No timeline for reopening has been provided, pending resolution of the security concerns. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the broader challenges facing healthcare delivery in high-crime areas, where protecting frontline workers and ensuring uninterrupted access to medical care remains a pressing priority.
For the latest updates, residents are advised to check official City of Cape Town channels or contact local health authorities.
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