Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, has officially unveiled the Garden of Heroes at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital in Soweto — a symbolic space dedicated to honouring whistleblowers who stood firmly against corruption and healthcare workers who died during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The unveiling follows an emotional candlelight remembrance session held earlier in the day, where families, activists and government officials gathered to pay tribute to those who lost their lives for speaking the truth or serving on the frontlines.
The Garden pays special homage to whistleblowers who bravely exposed corruption within the public health system, some of whom were tragically killed for their courage. Their actions, MEC Ralehoko said, “will forever inspire integrity, accountability and ethical leadership within our health institutions.”
Families of the fallen heroes laid candles and flowers in memory of their loved ones, while officials acknowledged the sacrifices made by healthcare workers during the height of the pandemic. Many of these workers died while delivering essential services and protecting communities at the peak of COVID-19 infections.
“This Garden is a living reminder of their bravery,” Ralehoko said. “They served, they spoke, they stood — and today, we remember them.”
The Garden of Heroes forms part of the Gauteng Department of Health’s ongoing efforts to restore public trust, promote transparency and recognise individuals who risked everything to ensure ethical service delivery.
The unveiling was attended by hospital staff, civil society organisations, families of whistleblowers, and representatives from the provincial government.