Mbombela welcomes Phelophepa Train

The City of Mbombela welcomed the well-known health-on-rails facility, the Transnet Phelophepa Train, on Monday, May 4. Community members are urged to make use of the medical services available until May 15 at Nelspruit Train Station on Andrew Street. The acting City of Mbombela Executive Mayor, William Nkatha, together with Ward14’s Cllr Kenneth Mkhonto, welcomed the team of professionals and support staff who will be assisting communities during the train’s stay in the city.

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Citizens are advised to arrive early as services are provided on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limited number of patients seen daily. The clinic coaches will operate between 07:30 and 16:00 on weekdays from May 4 to 15.

According to Sithembiso Shabangu, a staff member of Transnet Phelophepa, services include dental care, diabetes and cancer screenings (including pap smears for women and prostate checks for men), general health screening, eye care (excluding operations and bifocals), and counselling services. Shabangu said patients should bring clinic cards or doctor’s reports, as well as identification documents such as IDs or birth certificates.

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The Phelophepa Train also works with the Department of Education to identify selected schools where learners receive services such as eye tests and dental screenings. This initiative is carried out during each provincial or municipal visit to improve access to basic healthcare and support early detection of health issues among learners.

The clinic also provides psychological counselling for individuals affected by trauma, abuse, gender-based violence, or mental health challenges requiring professional support. These services are offered on a first-come, first-served basis and bookings are not accepted.

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Shabangu emphasised the importance of community co-operation in ensuring the success of the initiative. “All we need from the community is for them to co-operate with the Phelophepa professionals so that they can receive the assistance they need,” he said.