​Koketso Maraba
 
In a show of support for accessible healthcare, MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko visited the Phelophepa 1 Train of Hope at Heidelberg Station this week (12 June). The visit marks a key moment in the province's effort to strengthen community-based healthcare and bring essential medical services directly to the people.
The Phelophepa Train of Hope, a mobile clinic known for delivering quality health services to underserved communities, was stationed Heidelberg station between 02 – 06, and 09 – 13 June 2025. Residents received free services including eye care, diabetes and breast screening, pap smears, and prostate checks. Where a fee applies, it is minimal, ranging between just R5 and R30, making services affordable for all.
MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko toured the train, spoke with health professionals and patients, and expressed deep appreciation for the commitment and care provided by the staff. "The Phelophepa Train is a shining example of how we can bring healthcare closer to the people," she said. "No one should be left behind because they can't afford to travel or pay for basic health services."
Local community members responded with enthusiasm and gratitude. Local resident Jorck (54) expressed gratitude for the services, saying he received excellent dental care and affordable spectacles. He described the staff as professional and efficient, adding that the long queues were worth the wait.
Mbali Mndaweni (28) said she is thrilled with how clean her mouth feels after her first dental cleaning and is happy to be taking better care of her oral hygiene. She added that she looks forward to future dental visits.
This initiative also supports the Gauteng Department of Health's #AsibeHealthyGP campaign, which focuses on improving access to preventive care and encouraging healthy lifestyles. By offering health screenings and promoting awareness, the train is helping to drive early detection and timely treatment, key pillars of the campaign.
During its recent stop in Heidelberg, concluding on 12 June 2025, the Phelophepa Train of Hope delivered a wide range of essential healthcare services to the local community. The Dental Clinic treated approximately 800 patients, while the Eye Clinic saw around 1 200 patients onboard and reached a further over 11 000 individuals through outreach efforts. 
As part of these services, approximately 700 to 1 000 pairs of reading glasses or prescription spectacles were dispensed. The General Health Clinic attended to around 2 000 patients onboard, with an additional 700 individuals benefiting from outreach care.
The train is this upcoming week moving to Vereeniging Station. Communities are encouraged to take advantage of the services of this train between 16 – 20 and 23 – 27 June 2025. 
Preparations were also underway for a focused cancer awareness and screening campaign during the train's visit to Vereeniging.