JSE-listed construction firm Group Five has been awarded the R400-million contract to help make former President Nelson Mandela’s “lasting wish”, the construction of the Nelson Mandela Children's Hospital, in Parktown, a reality.

With work scheduled to start next month, the opening date for the hospital was expected to be the first quarter of 2016.

The hospital would cater for all medical purposes and would have about 240 beds and eight operating theatres.

The hospital was expected to employ around 150 doctors and 451 paediatric nursing professionals.

“We are extremely delighted to have been awarded this significant contract of making Mandela’s wish of building a children’s hospital in South Africa a reality.

“It is especially meaningful to us this year, as 2014 marks our fortieth year as a listed group. The contract provides an opportunity for Group Five to contribute to the delivery of the much-needed health infrastructure. It will also help deepen our relationship with an important client,” Group Five CEO Mike Upton commented.

Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital Trust chairperson Moss Ngoasheng said the trust was confident that Group Five would be “the right partner as we navigate what is, for the hospital trust, unchartered territory”.