Maputo hospital fire prompts urgent investigation
Prime Minister Benvinda Levi calls for swift action on the blaze at the Central Hospital of Maputo's oncology services.
Mozambique's Prime Minister Benvinda Levi has called for a rapid investigation into the fire that affected the oncology department at the Central Hospital of Maputo. The Prime Minister also appealed for solidarity from Mozambicans and international partners to aid in the recovery of the affected services. The Minister of Health, Ussene Isse, stated that a multisectoral team is assessing the damage to sensitive equipment.
Minister Isse confirmed that the fire did not cause any fatalities or injuries, with all 22 patients in the oncology ward evacuated safely. 12 patients were discharged, and the remaining 10 were transferred to the Dermatology ward for continued care. A special unit has been established at the hospital to ensure cancer patients receive necessary treatment without interruption, accommodating both inpatients and outpatients.
The Minister assured that the cobalt capsule used in radiotherapy was safely removed and stored, with no risk of radioactive contamination. Several public institutions, including the National Service for Public Rescue, firefighters, and the National Atomic Energy Agency, were instrumental in preventing more severe consequences. The technical evaluation of the specialized radiotherapy equipment is ongoing, as its sensitivity to heat requires careful assessment before determining operational status.
Why it mattersCancer patients in Maputo continue to receive care through a special unit established after a fire in the oncology unit.