Eastern Cape Department of Health MEC, Nomakhosazana Meth has learned of the untimely death of two experienced healthcare workers in Mthatha.
According to the Eastern Cape Department of Health spokesperson Yonela Dekeda, Dr Ogwok Alex Opio died on Wednesday, May 24, in in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital after a short Illness. Professional nurse Nomsa Rachel Nyembezi lost her life after she was hit by a taxi on her way from work on Tuesday, May 23.
Dekeda confirmed that the memorial service for Nyembezi will be held at the Mthatha Regional Hosiptal Auditorium on Tuesday, June 1, and she will be laid to rest on Saturday, June 3 at Mbangeni A/A in Yandlala Village in Ntabankulu. Details of Opio’s memorial and funeral service are yet to be confirmed.
“Dr Opio worked as a Maxillofacial surgeon at Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital. He joined the Department of Health in 1994. Nyembezi worked at Sinawe Thuthuzela Care centre, that operates under Mthatha Regional Hosiptal. She joined the Department of Health in 2010,” Dekeda said.
MEC Meth sends her condolences to both families, stating that she was saddened by the untimely death of two dedicated healthcare workers, that both combined have 42 years’ experience in healthcare.
“Dr Opio and sister Nyembezi served the OR Tambo District community and the Eastern Cape well. We thank them for their years of service, may their souls rest in peace,” Meth said.
