Life Healthcare is expanding its presence in South Africa’s Western Cape with plans to open a new $44 million hospital in Paarl, as demand for private healthcare and specialist medical services continues to grow in the region.

The new facility, Life Paarl Valley Hospital, is expected to open in the second half of 2027.

The project adds to a wave of healthcare investment in South Africa, where private hospital groups are increasing capacity to meet rising demand for acute and specialist care.

The 140-bed hospital is being built between Paarl and Franschhoek, close to Boschenmeer Golf Estate and Val de Vie Lifestyle Estate.

Life Healthcare said the facility will include the only cardiac catheterisation laboratory in the area, giving residents access to advanced heart treatment closer to home.

The development comes as healthcare providers across South Africa respond to growing pressure on medical services, particularly in diagnostics, renal dialysis, rehabilitation and complex care.

The company said it is also adding beds and expanding specialist facilities across its network.

Chief Executive Officer Peter Wharton-Hood said the group remains focused on investing in areas where healthcare demand is rising while improving services across its operations.

Focus on specialist care

Life Healthcare said the new hospital will feature a lodge-style setting designed to improve patient comfort and recovery.

The group has increasingly invested in specialist care and advanced medical technology as more patients seek treatment closer to residential hubs outside major cities.

The company added that patient activity improved during the second quarter, helping support its outlook despite ongoing economic pressure in South Africa’s healthcare sector.

Renewed focus on Southern Africa

Over the past five years, Life Healthcare has scaled back its international operations to concentrate on Southern Africa. In 2025, the company completed the sale of Life Molecular Imaging to U.S.-based Lantheus for about $857 million.

That followed earlier sales of Scanmed in Poland and Alliance Medical Group.

The moves marked a shift toward simplifying the company’s structure and directing more investment into its core African healthcare business.

Expanding regional footprint

Life Healthcare now holds its non-current operating assets across South Africa, Botswana and Namibia.

The group said the streamlined portfolio will allow it to invest further in hospitals, diagnostic services and specialized medical care across the region.

The Paarl project is expected to strengthen healthcare access in the Cape Winelands, one of the Western Cape’s fastest-growing residential and tourism corridors.