Health facilities across the district have recently been engaging communities through open days and special programmes designed to improve access to care, strengthen awareness, and foster partnerships. From youth-friendly services to broader facility showcases and women-centered gatherings, these initiatives are reinforcing the message of prevention, support, and collective responsibility for healthier communities.

Youth and Adolescent Health in Focus

The Steve Tshwete Clinic hosted an Open Day with a strong emphasis on teenagers and adolescents. The event sought to reassure young people about the services available to them and highlight the Department of Health’s Adolescent and Youth Friendly Services (AYFS).

AYFS are available at various health institutions during weekday afternoons, providing young people with easy access to confidential health advice, testing, and treatment. The day included aerobics sessions, healthy lifestyle promotion, and health education talks on different topics relevant to youth.

The initiative was made possible through collaboration between multiple stakeholders, including the Clinic Committee, Ward Councillor, Love Life, Shout It Now, and Community Health Workers. Collectively, they emphasized the importance of young people accessing care without fear or stigma.

Potch Town Clinic Opens Its Doors

At the same time, the Potch Town Clinic in the JB Marks Sub District opened its facility to the community through an Open Day engagement. Residents were given the opportunity to explore the clinic’s services, ranging from primary health care and mental health and wellness to testing and screening programmes.

This engagement was not only informative but also interactive, as community members were invited to comment on the services, offer suggestions, and provide compliments. Such feedback ensures that services remain people-centred and responsive to community needs.

Women’s Month Concludes with Unity in Health

In another initiative, officials in the JB Marks Sub District came together to conclude Women’s Month with a gathering of women in health services. The event celebrated solidarity, shared goals, and a renewed commitment to quality service delivery. It also provided an important space for colleagues to boost morale, strengthen teamwork, and lift each other’s spirits.

The message to residents remained clear: get tested, start treatment, and stay on treatment. Officials reminded communities to be on the lookout for Outreach Services Teams, who continue to bring testing and care closer to people’s homes.

Final Thoughts

These health initiatives reflect the broader mission of building strong, informed, and supported communities. Whether through youth engagement, community open days, or solidarity events for women, the emphasis remains on access, education, and empowerment. Together, stakeholders and residents are bridging gaps in healthcare and closing the HIV treatment gap.

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