Free State Health MEC Monyatso Mahlatsi also welcomed the recognition, saying it reflects the province’s commitment to raising healthcare performance standards.
The Free State Department of Health has won the Public Sector Digital Innovator Award at the Africa Tech Week 2026 ceremony held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre on 13 May 2026.
The award honours public sector institutions using digital solutions to improve service delivery and enhance the citizen experience. The province was recognised for e-Impilo, its Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system for primary healthcare.
The system replaces fragmented paper-based processes with an integrated, government-owned digital platform. It is designed to improve patient care, strengthen continuity between facilities, and boost accountability and operational efficiency.
Free State Department of Health Head of Department Ernest Mohlahlo said the award reflects the efforts of frontline and technical teams who implemented the system in practice.
