Residents of Heidelberg Ext 23 and Ext 26 turned out in large numbers for a Food Safety Awareness Event hosted by Lesedi Local Municipality at the Ext 23 Hall on June 4, where free health services, educational programmes, and entertainment were provided to promote healthier communities.

Held under the theme “A Clean and Healthy Community is a Strong Community,” the event brought together healthcare professionals, government departments, community stakeholders, and residents for a day dedicated to health promotion, disease prevention, and food safety awareness.

Ward Councillor Mapule Motsepe officially welcomed attendees and encouraged residents to make use of the services available.

“Today’s programme is about empowering our communities with knowledge and access to services that can improve their quality of life. We want residents to understand the importance of food safety, preventative healthcare, and healthy living. By working together, we can build stronger and healthier communities for future generations,” she said.

Doctor Oseke Ngobeni from the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development provided an overview of the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak currently affecting parts of South Africa.

“Commercial farmers have been the most affected by the outbreak. foot-and-mouth disease poses a serious threat to the livestock industry and requires strict biosecurity measures, ongoing surveillance, and cooperation from all stakeholders.

“Nationally, more than 274 000 animals have already been vaccinated as part of efforts to curb the spread of the disease. Between April 1, 2025, and May 28, 2026, South Africa had recorded 297 cases of foot-and-mouth disease, with 57 cases reported within the Lesedi municipal area,” she said.

Residents also had access to a wide range of free healthcare services, including HIV testing, TB screening, diabetes testing, hypertension screening, flu vaccinations, family planning services, STI testing, oral health assessments, mental health support, deworming, Vitamin A supplementation, and general health education.

The event also featured lively entertainment by the Beauty of Youth Choir, whose performances added energy and excitement to the programme.

Community members welcomed the initiative and praised the municipality and stakeholders for bringing essential services closer to residents. Mpumi Khonza ( 44), a resident of Heidelberg Ext 23, said the event was both informative and beneficial.

“I came for a health screening, but I also learnt a lot about food safety and diseases affecting animals. Many people do not always have the opportunity to access these services, so it was wonderful to have everything available in one place,” she said.

Ntombi Moqoqwa ( 52) said the programme encouraged residents to take better care of their health.

“The nurses and healthcare workers were very helpful. I had my blood pressure checked and received information about healthy eating. These are services that make a real difference in our community,” she said.

Jabu Mthetwa (45) said the information shared about foot-and-mouth disease was particularly valuable.

“Many of us hear about outbreaks on the news but do not fully understand how they affect our communities. The presentation helped us understand the importance of protecting livestock and supporting farmers,” he said.