… Samples from deceased ex-miners unable to be sent to SA for silicosis and TB examination
Ntsoaki Motaung
The Parliamentary Social Cluster Committee of Lesotho has uncovered an obstacle in the process of securing compensation for dependants of deceased ex-miners.
The issue centers around the inability to transport tissue samples – primarily hearts and lungs – of ex-miners to South Africa for examination since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2019.
Dr Lineo Raselimo, from the Men’s Clinic at Sankata Clinic, revealed that approximately 31 samples have been languishing in Lesotho for years, raising concerns about their viability for testing.
“The samples have not been sent to South Africa since COVID-19, and we are now unsure if they remain in a condition suitable for examination. The delay is jeopardising efforts to secure compensation for the dependants of deceased ex-miners,” Dr Raselimo explained.
Lesotho collaborates with South Africa’s Medical Bureau of Occupational Diseases (MBOD) and the National Institute for Occupational Health (NIOH) to analyse samples from deceased ex-miners.
These examinations determine if the individuals suffered from silicosis or tuberculosis, occupational diseases commonly linked to mining. However, the pandemic disrupted the transportation of these samples, and the situation has not yet been resolved.
Dr Raselimo noted that before COVID-19, a local Mosotho doctor facilitated the process, ensuring smooth transportation of the samples with equipment provided by MBOD and NIOH.
However, she pointed to a possible contract lapse between this doctor and the South African institutions as a contributing factor to the current impasse.
“In November last year, stakeholders convened to diagnose the problem and find a solution, but we are still awaiting a resolution,” Dr Raselimo said.
Supporting Dr Raselimo’s account, Dr Hatane Hatane, an Occupational Health Doctor at Mafeteng Hospital, highlighted additional complications.
“I began working at Mafeteng Hospital in 2023 when sample collection had already ceased. Upon inspecting the hospital mortuary, I discovered that the samples no longer have name tags, making it impossible to identify their origins or match them with specific families,” Dr Hatane disclosed.
This loss of identification has created a new wave of challenges, including mounting frustration among family members of deceased ex-miners who are demanding answers.
“We are facing increasing pressure from families who are desperate for updates and justice,” Dr Hatane added.
Mokhothu Makahlanyane, Chairperson of the Social Cluster Committee, requested a comprehensive report on the status of the samples and the logistical issues at play.
“All relevant information regarding the samples must be submitted to my office promptly so that we can address the problem and find a way forward,” Makahlanyane stated.
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