Surgeons for Little Lives Celebrates a Decade of Transforming Paediatric Care

For ten years, Surgeons for Little Lives has been a beacon of hope for thousands of children at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH) in Soweto, the largest hospital in the southern hemisphere. In a healthcare system often stretched beyond capacity, this non-profit organisation has filled critical gaps with compassion, innovation, and an unshakable belief that every child deserves exceptional care.

A Decade of Healing and Hope

Founded in 2015, Surgeons for Little Lives has partnered with doctors, nurses, and families to transform the hospital experience. From upgrading surgical wards and equipment to creating safe, child-friendly environments, the organisation has turned clinical care into a deeply human experience.

“Our first 10 years have shown what’s possible when people come together with one shared purpose: to save and uplift the lives of children,” says Prof Jerome Loveland, founder and chair. “We are deeply proud of what has been accomplished, but we know the need is growing. That’s why we continue to build capacity, inspire future leaders, and give every child a fighting chance at a brighter future.”

Why This Work Matters

South Africa faces one of the highest burdens of paediatric surgical disease in the region. Children make up nearly 40% of the population, yet there are too few specialists to meet the demand. Conditions like burns, congenital defects, childhood cancers, and trauma are widespread, and without surgery, many children would not survive.

At CHBAH alone, the paediatric surgery department treats over 11 000 patients annually and performs more than 2 300 operations. Surgeons for Little Lives collaborates with the Department of Health to transform overcrowded wards into spaces of dignity and recovery.

3 650 Days of Achievement

For young patients, hospitals can be intimidating. Surgeons for Little Lives has changed that reality with thoughtful projects like outdoor play areas, family sleep-over rooms, and a fully revamped Ward 32, featuring a playroom, library, and upgraded facilities.

The Wells Paediatric Burns Unit, their latest milestone, has doubled ICU capacity, improved infection control, and added rehabilitation spaces — directly reducing mortality rates.

Beyond infrastructure, programmes like Healing Through Art & Music help children process trauma creatively, while the SCAN programme (launched in 2023) works to detect and prevent child abuse. Partnerships with the South African Breastmilk Reserve provide lactation support, while discharge packs and Mandela Day drives bring comfort to families.

Training Tomorrow’s Specialists

Paediatric surgeons are in short supply, and training takes years. Over the past decade, the organisation has supported 17 qualified paediatric surgeons and another 15 registrars in training through funding, mentorship, and academic support.

In 2024, Dr Andinet Beza from Ethiopia became the first Rolls Royce Oncology Fellow, training at CHBAH before returning home to strengthen paediatric oncology care in his own country.

“Training these specialists is both a responsibility and a privilege,” says Prof Loveland. “They will shape the future of paediatric care across Africa.”

The Power of Community and Partnership

Fundraising events like Bara Ride and Joberg2C, along with volunteer and job-shadowing programmes, connect South Africans directly to the cause. Corporate and philanthropic partnerships have funded equipment, facility upgrades, and family-centred programmes that make care both accessible and humane.

“This impact has only been possible through collaboration,” says Loveland. “Every partner and donor helps ensure that more children receive the treatment they deserve.”

10 Years in Numbers

• 11 000+ patients treated annually
• 2 300+ surgeries performed each year
• 3 000+ burns patients treated since 2015
• Mortality halved in the burns unit after upgrades
• ICU beds increased from 6 to 11 in 2025
• 17 surgeons trained, 15 registrars currently supported
• Hundreds of families assisted with counselling, accommodation, and support

How You Can Help

To mark its 10th anniversary, Surgeons for Little Lives is inviting the public to join the movement. By donating, volunteering, or spreading awareness, supporters can help shape the next decade of care.

The organisation’s Give R365 campaign encourages people to donate R1 for every day of the year — enough to fund burn dressings, meals for parents, or play therapy supplies.

Every rand counts. Every day makes a difference.

To learn more or get involved, visit surgeonsforlittlelives.org.