On 11 June, Rhiza Babuyile, in partnership with the Johannesburg Health District Services and the Orange Farm United Taxi Association (OFUTA), launched an Mpathy Clinic in Orange Farm – specifically for taxi drivers.
Lerato Seheri, Rhiza Holdings Healthcare Manager, said: “Taxi drivers avoid going to a clinic because their working conditions simply don’t allow them the time to wait in long queues. With this new service, they’ll get treatment fast. Quick in and out, no long lines.”
She added the clinic is tailored for busy schedules and offers affordable consultations between R100 and R300. The initiative also supports the national 1.1 million ‘Closing the Gap’ ART Campaign, targeting those living with HIV who are not yet on treatment.
“Men are far less likely to use routine health services, which often leads to late diagnoses of preventable conditions. With this clinic, we’re addressing that gap,” she shared.
The Department of Health’s Mmakobo Gaegake agreed: “Taxi drivers will work, access health services, and continue with their day. The clinic promotes healthy living in disadvantaged communities.” She added that the Department of Health has a strong working relationship with the taxi association and in Orange Farm alone, there are six taxi ranks. The main rank will serve as the launch site for the clinic.
OFUTA spokesperson Monty Motsopa, welcomed the clinic: “It’s something our drivers have needed for a long time. Rhiza Babuyile and the Department of Health heard and delivered.”
Rhiza Babuyile operates across Gauteng, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Free State. The NPO is known for cost-effective, community-focused healthcare. New Mpathy Clinics will soon open in Zithobeni (Bronkhorstspruit), Sky City (Ekurhuleni), and Dunoon (Western Cape).
Images: Gauteng Department of Health X page
