Picture: Penelope “Penny” Msimango
By REGINALD KANYANE
21 December 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) welcomed the appointment of Penelope “Penny” Msimango as Head of Department (HoD) within the province’s Department of Health (DoH) – a role she has held in an acting capacity since last year. The DA has long held the view that prolonged acting appointments at senior management level carry inherent risks.
DA KZN spokesperson on Health and Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL), Dr Imran Keeka said this includes instability, a lack of strategic continuity and the unintended undermining of the authority of the office. Keeka said the confirmation of Msimango’s permanent appointment is therefore both necessary and welcome.
“Msimango has served the DoH for many years and brings with her substantial institutional knowledge. This has been evident through her recent engagements and presentations before the Health Portfolio Committee, the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) and other oversight platforms.
“During this period, she has demonstrated leadership and has been instrumental in addressing a number of long-standing matters within the DoH. Notably, she becomes only the second female HoD in the provincial administration, after the Treasury,” he said.
Keeka further said the challenges facing KZN’s DoH remain significant. He added that the department’s financial position is fragile, workforce morale appears to be concerning low, critical posts remain vacant and aging infrastructure and equipment – particularly within Emergency Medical Services (EMS) – continue to place strain on service delivery.
“It is clear that the task ahead will be demanding and the HoD will have her hands full. The DA looks forward to working closely with the HoD at all levels to ensure that the health needs of KZN’s people are prioritised and met. As a constructive partner within KZN’s Government of Provincial Unity (GPU) our commitment to building a capable, ethical and caring state remains unwavering.
The Guardian 