Our Story of Transformation
It began small — but it was built with heart.
In 1991, a single act of generosity from Johnson & Johnson planted the seed for what would become a historic legacy of healing. With just 16 ward beds, one operating theatre, a dressing room and a small therapy space, the first Burn Unit at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital opened its doors.
A New Era of Hope — 33 Years Later
ICU Beds
Expert Staff
In 2024, compassion made history again.
Thanks to a powerful partnership between the Roy McAlpine Foundation, Wits University and the Department of Health, the unit expanded into a world-class facility now known as the Wits Roy McAlpine Burns Unit — the largest adult burns care centre on the African continent.
Read About the Launch
12 Fully Equipped ICU Beds
Specialised Operating Theatres
Advanced Skin Substitutes Laboratory
Auditorium for Training & Research
Therapy & Psychological Recovery Rooms
New Outpatient Department for Long-Term Care
What began as a medical unit has become a sanctuary of recovery and world-class innovation.
A Legacy Built Together
This unit is more than bricks and wards — it is a living monument of what empathy, science and partnership can achieve. Every donor, every nurse, every surgeon, every therapist and every recovered patient — you are part of this story.
STAKEHOLDERS
Who We Serve
We proudly serve adults from Gauteng, Limpopo, North-West, Mpumalanga, and even neighbouring African countries.
With a referral population of over 28 million people, our unit stands as a continental centre of hope, healing and academic excellence.
Our Mission
To restore health, dignity and confidence to burn survivors through compassionate care, innovation and multidisciplinary excellence.
Anchored in Humanity
Our Values
Compassion First
Every patient is treated like family — with dignity, respect and warmth.
Excellence in Care
We combine heart with high-level clinical expertise to deliver the best outcomes.
Innovation That Heals
We invest in research, technology and training to push the boundaries of burn care.
Restoration of Hope
We don’t just treat burns — we help rebuild lives and identities.