Matla commemorates TB day

with local clinic

In a united stand against tuberculosis, Thubelihle Clinic, in partnership with the Department of Health and supported by Exxaro Matla Coal Clinic, hosted a vital community TB screening event in Kriel on 24 March to mark World Tuberculosis (TB) Day.

Held under the global 2025 theme “Yes! We Can End TB,” the initiative focused on encouraging early detection, raising awareness, and promoting access to treatment – all essential components in the fight to eradicate TB. The clinic welcomed residents of all ages for free TB screenings, informative health education sessions, and personal consultations aimed at preventing and managing the disease.

Healthcare teams from both the Department of Health and Exxaro Matla Coal Clinic collaborated to deliver high-quality services throughout the day. Dozens of community members – including vulnerable groups such as the elderly and youth – were screened and educated on recognising TB symptoms, including a persistent cough, fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss.

Jabulile Msimango from Thubelihle Clinic highlighted the impact of the initiative: “Events like this help us bring vital healthcare services closer to the people who need them most. With strong partnerships and community involvement, we are confident we can reduce TB infections in our area.”

The clinic emphasised that ongoing education and support are key to ending the TB epidemic, urging residents to remain vigilant, complete their treatment regimens if diagnosed, and encourage others to seek medical care early.

World TB Day is observed annually on March 24 to raise awareness about the global impact of tuberculosis – one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases – and to inspire action toward its elimination. The successful event at Thubelihle Clinic stands as a testament to the effectiveness of grassroots healthcare initiatives and the power of collaboration in achieving public health goals.