Operation Smile South Africa and Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital will provide free surgeries for up to 40 children during a special weekend programme in Johannesburg
Johannesburg, South Africa (22 May 2026)- For dozens of Gauteng families, the end of May could bring something they have been waiting months, and in some cases years. This is life-changing surgery for children born with cleft lip and palate conditions.
From 29 to 31 May, Operation Smile South Africa and Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital will once again join forces for an intensive surgical programme aimed at helping reduce the province’s cleft surgery backlog.
The weekend initiative is expected to provide free surgeries for up to 40 children, while also helping train and support the next generation of local medical specialists.
For many families, it means relief after long periods of uncertainty and waiting.
A team of around 50 volunteer medical professionals from across the country (including surgeons, anaesthetists, paediatricians, nurses, speech therapists, dentists and psychologists) will travel to Johannesburg to assist with the programme.
This year’s initiative also marks a major milestone for Operation Smile South Africa, which is celebrating 20 years of providing free cleft surgeries and care across South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa.
For many parents, the weekend represents the possibility of seeing their child smile, speak and interact with greater confidence. Avanthi Parboosing from Life Healthcare
“Engaging with the mothers and children as they’re screened, many filled with anxiety and hope for life-changing surgery, is incredibly moving.”
Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital CEO Dr Nkuli Boikhutso said the initiative reflects the hospital’s commitment to collaborative, family-centred care.
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The programme is being supported by several partners, including Life Healthcare, which will host volunteers during the surgical weekend.
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