Since opening its doors in 2008, Rotanganedza Community Care has grown into a lifeline for vulnerable people across the West Rand and even as far as Limpopo. Despite ongoing challenges, the organisation remains steadfast in its mission to support those in need.

Founder Caroline Tiba explained that the NPO offers help with various community issues, including HIV and tuberculosis (TB) testing and counselling, support groups, community outreaches, and assistance for victims of gender-based violence, poverty, and vulnerable children.

She shared that the inspiration behind the initiative came from her own experience with the stigma surrounding HIV and TB. After testing positive for HIV and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, she lost her job and faced rejection from both her family and the wider community.

She said she hopes to challenge these stigmas and end discrimination against people living with HIV and TB. She also aims to promote better research on the subject and encourage others to speak out.

Their journey has not been without difficulties. Through their agricultural projects, the organisation sells produce to street vendors to help fund patients’ treatment and sustain operations. However, when the vendors were recently removed from their trading area, Rotanganedza and its beneficiaries were left without an income.

This setback has not deterred Caroline from her mission. On November 28, the organisation will host the West Rand District Aids Day at the Dan Tloome Mega Project.