The Operation Smile SA team has wrapped up a powerful mission at Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital in Mthatha, uniting expert volunteers, local health heroes, and dedicated partners to give deserving children the priceless gift of a smile.
Mthatha, South Africa (03 November 2026) – Last Thursday marked the beginning of the highly anticipated Operation Smile SA (OSSA) three-day visit to Mthatha to reach families who couldn’t access or afford specialist cleft surgery and comprehensive care.
After sending out a widespread call inviting families and individuals across the Eastern Cape and surrounding areas to come forward for free specialist cleft care at Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital (NMAH) in Mthatha from 29 October to 1 November 2026, the people came out in their numbers.
With the aim of performing 40 surgical procedures over the weekend, day one was dedicated to screening patients who queued at their doors and preparing those who qualified for surgery. Day two shifted the focus to theatre as the specialist team prepared for a marathon of cleft surgeries to provide children with access to the care they need.
The third and final day continued with surgeries. While the surgical team continued its work in theatre, a dental team also supported the Eastern Cape Department of Health to strengthen oral healthcare in the community through OSSA’s dental programme.
This additional support formed another part of OSSA’s time in Mthatha, working alongside local healthcare teams to reach and support more people in the community.
A touching highlight included children being dressed in capes ahead of their surgeries and being presented with medals donated by HAHA Bling for Bravery to commend their courage throughout their procedures.
“For some members of our team, this was their first Operation Smile programme. For others, it was another opportunity to continue work they’ve been committed to for many years,” OSSA said.
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Celebrating a Month of Miracles and Journeys with Wings and WishesOSSA emphasised that bringing new volunteers together with those who have been part of the organisation from the start is an important part of what they do – offering an opportunity to share knowledge, learn from one another, and strengthen the skills and experience that help build sustainable cleft care in the communities they serve.
Having now left with a few magical moments from Mthatha and having wonderfully changed the course of so many families’ lives, OSSA recognised and thanked everyone who helped make this programme happen.
“To our sponsors, donors, and partners, thank you for playing such an important part in the work happening here, from supporting the programme to making each day in theatre possible.”
Sources: Operation Smile South Africa
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