Pretoria: The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has announced the commencement of its Mandela Month Surgical Marathon, a significant initiative aimed at conducting over 1000 surgeries and clinical procedures throughout July in commemoration of Mandela Month. This marks the fourth edition of the department's effort to address surgical waiting lists and improve access to healthcare services across public hospitals in Gauteng. According to South African Government News Agency, the department has pledged a total of 1078 surgeries and clinical procedures, aiming to surpass the 806 procedures completed during the 2025 edition. This initiative is part of the ongoing efforts to enhance surgical services and provide timely healthcare access. Nineteen hospitals, ranging from academic to district levels, are participating in what is described as one of the province's largest coordinated surgical interventions. The programme will see more than 20 surgical and clinical disciplines involved, including ophthalmology, or thopaedics, general surgery, and more specialized fields such as neurosurgery and oncology. Planned procedures include cataract surgeries, hip and knee replacements, cochlear implants, and cardiac procedures. Support from civil society organizations like Gift of the Givers and Operation Healing Hands will be instrumental, providing specialist teams and necessary medical supplies. For many patients, the surgeries mean more than just medical relief; they symbolize restored sight, mobility, and the opportunity to return to normal life after long waits. The Mandela Month Surgical Marathon is viewed as a commitment to restoring hope, reducing waiting times, and honoring the legacy of Nelson Mandela through tangible actions. Cabinet has also urged all South Africans to participate in Mandela Month activities under the theme "It's still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity." Nelson Mandela International Day, observed on 18 July, emphasizes the global effort to honor Mandela's legacy.