Kwa-Thema – In response to the pressing healthcare needs of underserved and vulnerable communities, especially children and people living with disabilities, the Ubuntu Inclusive Centre Clinic was recently launched.
“Our clinic approach is inclusive through access to services such as occupational and speech therapy. The inspiration was also to bring services closer to the community because people living with disabilities struggle with access to public healthcare, and using public transport adds another layer to this challenge,” explained Mxolisi Nkutha, the centre’s executive.
Formerly known as the Kwa-Thema Stimulation Centre, the clinic will provide services to society’s most vulnerable population – those who often fall through the cracks of mainstream health services.
“Inspired by the ubuntu philosophy of shared humanity and collective care, the clinic aims to provide dignified, inclusive, and holistic healthcare, particularly to those living with disabilities, mental health challenges and chronic illnesses. It fills a critical gap by integrating physical, mental and community wellness in one accessible space,” Nkutha said.
He said the clinic’s official opening to the public will be in June.
Lesego Ndala, the project manager for health at the First Rand Empowerment Foundation, cuts the ribbon. With him are occupational therapist Buhle Makhe and nurse Ella Macker.
The clinic will provide these primary healthcare services:
• Primary healthcare (nurse and doctor consultation – in person and virtual);
• Child health (baby wellness and immunisation programme);
• HIV management and treatment (counselling, testing and treatment);
• Inclusive family planning and reproductive health;
• Occupational therapy (assessments and therapy sessions for children and adults);
• Speech therapy (assessments and therapy sessions for children and adults); and
• Advocacy and community health outreach.
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“Special attention is given to inclusive care, ensuring people and children living with disabilities and marginalised individuals receive patient-centred, culturally sensitive support.
“The main beneficiaries are residents in under-resourced communities who often face barriers accessing quality health services,” Nkutha added.
The First Rand Empowerment Foundation primarily funded the clinic.
“The Ubuntu Inclusive Centre Clinic is a natural extension of our ongoing work as an early childhood development (ECD) centre dedicated to children living with disabilities.
“We welcome the involvement of the public, corporate partners, NGOs and individuals who wish to contribute through funding, volunteering, skills sharing or advocacy. Support can take the form of once-off donations, long-term partnerships or integration into existing programmes.
“Together, we can build a more inclusive, equitable healthcare future,” Nkutha said.
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Some of the aids for the medical practitioners.
Occupational therapist Buhle Makhe explains how the equipment will assist children.
Occupational therapist Buhle Makhe and nurse Ella Macker.
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