Muslims are understandably dismayed by a circular issued this week by the Helen Joseph Hospital that Halaal food services are terminated from 15 December 2020.
According to the hospital “due to unforeseen circumstances we would not be able to cater for any Halaal certified meals.”
This is most unfortunate as observant Muslim patients will not eat non-Halaal food, and this will adversely affect both their physical and mental health.
The situation is worsened by the restriction on visitors due to COVID-19, so family members are prevented from bringing in Halaal food.
I have alerted Health MEC Nomathemba Mokgethi to this matter and I hope she takes urgent action to ensure that Halaal food is available at the hospital.