The Mpumalanga Department of Health has introduced three full-time medical doctors at community health centres in Bushbuckridge as part of efforts to strengthen primary healthcare services.

On 26 January 2026, the MEC for Health, Ms Sasekani Manzini, visited Hluvukani, Dwarsloop and Oakley Community Health Centres where the newly appointed doctors were officially introduced to staff and community members. Dr G Moripa has been stationed at Hluvukani CHC, Dr E Ngomana at Dwarsloop CHC and Dr NP Nyambi at Oakley CHC.

The strategic placement of doctors at primary healthcare facilities aims to support the implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI) and advance universal health coverage. This initiative seeks to ensure that communities have improved and consistent access to quality primary healthcare services close to where they live.

The department highlighted that strengthening primary healthcare is key to improving life expectancy, enhancing clinical governance and raising the quality of care at the first point of contact. The presence of doctors at clinics is also expected to reduce unnecessary referrals and self-referrals to hospitals, while improving early diagnosis, timely treatment and continuity of care.

During her engagement, the MEC urged community members to support and respect the doctors, emphasising the importance of building strong, trust-based relationships between patients and healthcare professionals. Such relationships, she noted, are vital for better health outcomes, increased patient satisfaction and improved adherence to treatment.

The MEC also encouraged residents who have tested HIV-negative to access lenacapavir, which will be rolled out as part of HIV prevention efforts. Community members were further urged to regularly check their health status for early diagnosis and treatment, and those who have tested positive for TB or HIV were encouraged to return to health facilities to collect their treatment.

Community members who attended the events welcomed the initiative, expressing appreciation for the deployment of full-time doctors at local clinics. They noted that the move will reduce the need for long and costly trips to hospitals, allowing residents to receive timely medical care within their own communities.