By Omphile Maebane
In honour of Mandela Day, the North West Department of Health conducted a community outreach event at Mothotlung Clinic, bringing vital healthcare services closer to residents. The initiative, led by MEC for Health Jonas Sello Lehari, together with departmental officials, medical staff, and local stakeholders, marked a day of service, reflection, and renewed commitment to public health.
As part of the “67 Minutes for Madiba” campaign, the clinic opened its doors early to accommodate dozens of residents seeking free health screenings and services. These included HIV testing, TB and diabetes screening, maternal check-ups, immunisations, and blood pressure monitoring.
“We are here to serve, not just to speak. Mandela Day reminds us of the power of action. Today’s outreach is a commitment to putting patients first and strengthening primary healthcare at grassroots level,” said MEC Jonas Sello Lehari during his address to the community.
Officials used the opportunity to engage directly with patients and staff, listening to grievances and suggestions regarding service delivery. The MEC acknowledged existing challenges such as equipment shortages and understaffing but reassured residents that interventions are underway.
“We are working on increasing the number of professional nurses and improving turnaround times for medication delivery. It’s a process, but we are committed to accountability,” added MEC Lehari.
The event also included the distribution of hygiene packs, blankets, and baby hampers to vulnerable patients and new mothers. Many described this gesture as both timely and touching.
“I came here for a blood pressure check, and I also received a warm blanket. It means a lot, especially in this cold,” said 66-year-old community member Refilwe Mashaba. “But more than that, it feels good to be seen and valued.”
The Health Promotion Coordinator facilitated health education talks throughout the day, covering topics such as nutrition, TB prevention, and the importance of regular screenings. “Information is the first step to prevention. We want people to walk away not only with medicine but with knowledge,” she said.
The clinic’s operational team also welcomed the visit. “Having the MEC on-site motivates us. It shows that leadership is taking our issues seriously,” said Nurse Bokaba Noge.
As the event came to a close, community members expressed hope that such outreach efforts would become more regular. “This shouldn’t only happen on Mandela Day,” said youth volunteer Kabelo Montsho. “We need to see more of this. People being helped where they are.”
The Department of Health confirmed that similar outreach programmes are planned across other parts of the province, especially in rural and peri-urban areas.
As the nation reflected on the legacy of Nelson Mandela, the visit to Mothotlung Clinic served as a reminder that dignity in healthcare is not a privilege, but a right.
