RHAP

Speaking during the launch of the Johannesburg Declaration Accountability and Monitoring Framework, Dr Asafika Mbangata, Chairperson of @doctors_rural, explained the importance of ensuring that rural communities are represented in conversations, research, policy and accountability processes.

She highlighted how the original intention of the community service programme to address the shortage of doctors in rural communities has gradually been diluted with placements increasingly taking place in urban hospitals.

She continued to stress the importance of holding government accountable to ensure that commitments to rural communities are upheld and translated into meaningful action. #WorldDiabetesDay2026 @diabetes_alliza @HealthZA @GautengHealth

[THREAD] “Knowledge is power. When people understand their condition, they are better equipped to stand up for their rights and advocate for their lives.”

Speaking during the session on 30 Years of the Constitution, @TAC Chairperson Sibongile Tshabalala called for greater community education and mobilisation around diabetes.

She highlighted challenges with the availability of diabetes medication in public healthcare facilities, stressing that access to treatment must never depend on one's ability to pay.

People must be equipped with the knowledge to demand the healthcare they are entitled to. #WorldDiabetesDay2026 @HealthZA @diabetes_alliza

Behind every diabetes diagnosis is a person navigating a life changing reality, often with far less support than they need.

At #WorldDiabetesDay2026, the panel session ‘Diabetes from the Ground Up’ brought lived experiences and community perspectives to the forefront, exposing gaps in mental health support, patient education, access to resources and the capacity of primary healthcare facilities.

The message: diabetes care must extend beyond diagnosis and medication to include continuous, accessible and people-centred support that responds to the realities of communities. #HealthEquity @diabetes_alliza @GautengHealth @HealtheNews

RHAP joins health advocates, policymakers, healthcare professionals and communities at Constitution Hill for #WorldDiabetesDay2026.

Under the theme From Declaration to Action – Act Early. Act Together. Act Now, today's engagement highlights the importance of strengthening South Africa's response to diabetes and ensuring access to quality healthcare for all. @diabetes_alliza @GautengHealth

#HealthEquity

TB in rural communities isn’t just a health crisis, it’s a social and economic battle. Delays in diagnosis and poor access weaken TB care. A study in rural KZN found most got treatment, but some stopped due to finances or feeling better.

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