Head of Department:  Health: Dr Sandile Tshabalala

 

Telephone : (033) 395 3176

Fax : (033) 345 0792

Email : Sandile.Tshabalala@kznhealth.gov.za  or
samantha.foulkes@kznhealth.gov.za

Dr Sandile Tshabalala is a seasoned healthcare professional, and currently serves as the Administrative Head of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health (HoD).

He holds the rare distinction of performing this challenging and demanding role as HoD during the height of the deadly COVID-19 pandemic, which is one of the most difficult periods that our Province and country have ever faced.

He holds a Bachelor of Science BSc from UNIZUL (1989-1991); and an MBCHB from MEDUNSA (1992- 1996). He is currently studying towards a Master's in Public Health, through the University of Fort Hare.

Born in Umlazi township, he matriculated from Sekusile High School at Madadeni in 1987.

As a student, he was active in the SRC, including in the health and education sub-committees.

His illustrious medical journey began when he was appointed as an intern at Ngwelezane Hospital in 1997, where he became a medical officer working in ICU and Theatre.

He worked as a sessional doctor at Queen Nandi Regional Hospital, from 1999 to 2008; and also served as the Chief Medical Officer back at Ngwelezane Hospital, from 2008 to 2010.

He also worked as the manager for the Medical Male Circumcision and HIV Prevention Programme, from 2010 to December 2012.

He served as a medical manager at Clairwood Hospital from December 2012, and played the same role at Wentworth Hospital from 2014 to 2015.

He was appointed CEO of Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital from 2015 to 2017.

He also worked as the Chief Director responsible for Clinical Support Services, from 2018 to 2019, after which he was appointed the Head of Department.

He has also worked at an NGO, Khanya Africa, as a secretary; and is a founding member and regional treasurer for the Progressive Professionals Forum.