THE Transnet Phelophepa Health Train has been launched in Dube, Soweto, providing essential health services to the local residents.
The Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, officially welcomed the Transnet Phelophepa Healthcare Train at Dube Station on Tuesday, 10 October.
Soweto residents made their way to the station in large numbers to access healthcare services. While some were disappointed that they could not get help, others were thrilled that healthcare services knocked on their door without them having to spend anything.
Madala Mathole Montjane (65) told the Daily Sun that he was very happy to have been treated so well. He had his teeth washed, his eyes examined and was given glasses.
Among the many people who were eager to get help was madala Jan Moloi (103), who suffers from visual impairment. He was also examined and received help. He also received a mink blanket.
But Catherine Mphore (58) told Daily Sun that she was unable to get the help.
"I've been here since 6am. I didn’t get the sticker. I wanted to go for a screening for my eyes, but they told me they were fully booked. I had to come back and book for Sunday. Everywhere was crowded," Catherine said.
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MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko said the train provides a range of health services, including dental services, eyecare and screening for diabetes and cancer, free of charge and some at very low cost.
"We're offering a hospital on the train, and this is an exciting moment for citizens because they want to access these services that government is offering on a train for the citizens of Gauteng," she said.
Mayor Kabelo Gwamanda said that as the City of Joburg, they're privileged and honoured to have this train in the previously disadvantaged community.
"We understand that our healthcare facilities are strained. Bringing very critical services that are ordinarily not available to our disadvantages residents is a privilege," Gwamanda said.
The train is stationed at the Dube Station from 9 to 20 October 2023. The operational days and times are Monday to Friday from 7.30am to 4pm. Communities in Soweto and surrounding areas are urged to take advantage of the opportunity to access healthcare services offered by the train.
The train will be stationed at Dube station from 09 to 20 October. The days and hours of operation will be Monday to Friday from 7.30am to 4pm. Communities in Soweto and the surrounding areas are urged to take advantage of the health services offered by the train.
