Latest news with #Shange
The Citizen
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Witkoppen Clinic celebrates Nelson Mandela Day with heartfelt community service
Witkoppen Clinic proudly honoured Nelson Mandela Day by giving back to Vukuzenzele Community Centre in Kya Sand. Sbonga Shange, marketing and communications manager, explained that guided by Madiba's enduring words, 'there can be no greater gift than that of giving one's time and energy to help others without expecting anything in return,' their team embraced the spirit of selfless service by dedicating their 67 minutes to the centre. In a heartfelt gesture of gratitude, Witkoppen Clinic staff spent the day uplifting 67 elderly community members. The celebration included a warm meal, toiletry packs, dessert, and a lively music session that brought joy and laughter to all. Together, they prayed, sang, and celebrated life in a way that truly captured the essence of Mandela Day. Also read: Homes celebrates Mandela Day with joy Shange said that this memorable day of service was made possible through the generous support of their valued partners. 'We extend our deepest appreciation to Pick n Pay Dainfern, Lonehill, and Fourways Crossing; EVR Water; Food Lovers Market Fourways; and Astron Energy Dainfern. Your contributions helped create a day of dignity, care, and celebration for our elders.' The festivities continued at Witkoppen Clinic, where additional partners devoted their 67 minutes by donating blankets, meals, and toiletry packs to their patients and staff. The kindness and compassion are deeply appreciated, and we are grateful for your continued partnership. 'Together, we demonstrated the power of community and compassion — a true reflection of Nelson Mandela's legacy.' Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!
The Citizen
21-07-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Witkoppen Clinic opens its doors to tomorrow's healers
Seven bright-eyed students from the Alexandra Education Committee (AEC) stepped into the Witkoppen Clinic on July 1 as aspiring healthcare professionals. This marked another milestone in the clinic's expanding partnership with AEC, an organisation committed to equipping young people from underserved communities with the tools they need to thrive. For a full day, the students shadowed seven clinicians across the facility, diving into the inner workings of primary healthcare. From observing consultations to engaging in meaningful dialogue with their mentors, the learners got a rare glimpse into the human side of medicine, a career path many of them hope to pursue. Also read: Witkoppen Clinic sees efficiency gains after Novartis donation of medical equipment Sbonga Shange, who runs the marketing and communications for the clinic, described the experience as deeply rewarding. 'The presence of these students brought a renewed sense of purpose to our team. Their energy, eagerness to learn, and thoughtful engagement sparked meaningful conversations, deep reflections, and a shared sense of hope.' Also read: Witkoppen Clinic launches Winter Warmer Campaign to support underserved communities Shange added the programme was about more than exposure; it was about inspiration. 'We believe that nurturing the next generation of healthcare workers begins with exposure, mentorship, and inspiration. These job shadowing sessions serve as powerful reminders of why we do the work we do, and how vital it is to uplift and empower our future leaders.' The job shadowing initiative is part of a broader effort by the clinic and AEC to build bridges between education and real-world experience, especially for students who face limited access to professional environments. 'Partnerships like these do more than bridge gaps; they build futures.' Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We'd love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts! At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
30-06-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
Tanzania Airlines blacklisted by EU, but safe in South African skies
Air Tanzania's operations in South Africa remain unaffected, though Sacaa has not ruled out the possibility of future action. The European Union (EU) blacklisted all airlines, cargo and passenger, certified by the Tanzanian Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) this month. The country's flag carrier, Air Tanzania, and its cargo and charter peers are now banned from entering European airspace. EU bans Tanzanian carriers from its airspace The move was prompted by what the EU called 'serious deficiencies' in Tanzania's aviation oversight. But civil aviation authorities in South Africa say they have no safety or compliance concerns about the Tanzanian airline operating into South Africa. Presently, no Tanzanian carriers operate in the EU; however, national airline Air Tanzania had set its sights on long-haul operations, including flights to the UK, which are now scuppered. The EU said TCAA has a lack of qualified personnel, ineffective regulatory supervision, and noncompliance with international safety standards a challenge locally. No red flags for SA, says Sacaa South African Civil Aviation Authority (Sacaa) spokesperson Naledi Shange said: 'Airlines from Tanzania undergo our own rigorous technical assessments and ramp inspections before receiving foreign operator permits to operate in South African airspace.' For now, Air Tanzania's operations in South Africa remain unaffected. The Sacaa has not ruled out the possibility of future action, but Shange said that any decisions will be based on its assessments, not the decisions of foreign regulators. Even if an international body such as the EU or the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the US flags concerns, Sacaa conducts its own investigations and assessments before considering any bans or enforcement action. ALSO READ: Europe bakes in summer's first heatwave as continent warms 'There is no blanket policy. If technical or safety concerns are identified, enforcement procedures are initiated, including grounding of the aircraft, if necessary,' Shange said. 'Each operator is assessed independently. We do not rely solely on the actions or findings of other authorities.' Thus far, she said, there have been no bans on international operators in South African airspace, only corrective action. 'As part of our surveillance programme, we do conduct planned and ad hoc inspections of foreign operators. 'If issues are identified, we act. In most cases, these are addressed before the aircraft departs,' she said. That said, recently, South African airlines stood to forfeit access to US and EU airspace after the country failed to meet a key international aviation obligation and ensure the establishment of an independent body to investigate aircraft accidents. ALSO READ: SA expresses sadness, offers condolences to India after Air India crash [VIDEO] SA's aviation credibility under spotlight too Under Annexe 13 of the Chicago Convention, which sets global aviation safety standards, accident investigations must be independent and impartial. At present, they're handled by the Civil Aviation Authority, an entity housed under the Department of Transport, which does not meet the required level of independence. The department has since confirmed it will table a draft policy before Cabinet in a bid to avoid a serious safety finding, which could see local carriers grounded from some of the world's most important air corridors. When it comes to safety standards, Shange said robust international oversight and a strong performance record of the Sacaa. 'Sacaa participates in the [International Civil Aviation Organisation] universal safety oversight audit programme – continuous monitoring approach, which evaluates global aviation safety compliance,' she said. 'In 2022, South Africa achieved a final safety oversight score of 91.38%, placing the country among the top 20 globally.' The FAA also reaffirmed South Africa's category 1 status, the highest accolade possible, under its international aviation safety assessment programme in the same year. NOW READ: SANDF budget constraints: SAAF needs R414 million to refurbish Ramaphosa's presidential jet
The Citizen
05-06-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Witkoppen Clinic sees efficiency gains after Novartis donation of medical equipment
Witkoppen Clinic and Novartis South Africa have partnered to improve healthcare services in the surrounding community. This collaboration has enabled the clinic to acquire essential resources, including 44 brand-new chairs, 20 scanners, and three air conditioning units, significantly enhancing patient care and operational efficiency. Sbonga Shange, business development assistant at Witkoppen Clinic, emphasised the partnership's shared purpose, saying: 'This partnership is not just about donations; it is about shared purpose, unwavering support, and a shared belief that every patient deserves quality care and comfort, coupled with dignity.' Also read: Witkoppen Clinic launches Winter Warmer Campaign to support underserved communities The partnership has already shown positive results, with the clinic supporting 11 287 patients in the first quarter of 2025, thanks to improved efficiency gained through newly acquired resources. 'Through the generous donation from Novartis, we have been able to address some of the key requirements for the clinic – resources that will not only improve the daily experiences of our patients but also enhance the efficiency of our healthcare services and processes,' said Shange. 'The 20 vital-signs scanners are already revolutionising our administrative flow. Used by our vitals team, clinicians, and pharmacy personnel, these devices have reduced paperwork and processing time by five minutes per patient, allowing for a faster, smoother, and more efficient service that directly benefits our patients.' Also read: Local Rotary Club supports Witkoppen Primary School Shange added that, with the addition of the new air conditioning units, 'our administrative section has become a more pleasant environment for both staff and patients. This improvement enhances not just comfort but also supports better infection control measures, ensuring a healthier and more hygienic space for all.' Novartis South Africa is committed to improving patient access to innovative medicines, and building research capabilities in the country. In 2017, the company signed a memorandum of understanding with the South African Medical Research Council and the Department of Science and Technology to boost clinical trials and research capabilities. Read more: Community called to get flu shots at Witkoppen Clinic Witkoppen Clinic is a non-profit healthcare organisation that provides comprehensive primary healthcare and social welfare services to over 7 000 patients monthly, addressing various health needs, including HIV, TB, and non-communicable diseases. Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We'd love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts! At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
03-06-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Witkoppen Clinic launches Winter Warmer Campaign to support underserved communities
Witkoppen Clinic has launched its second annual Winter Warmer Campaign, a heartfelt initiative aimed at bringing warmth, comfort, and care to patients and participants from underserved communities. The campaign, which runs throughout the cold months, calls on the community to donate essential items, such as warm blankets, gently-used clothing, non-perishable food parcels, and other miscellaneous essentials. According to Sbonga Shange, the clinic's business development assistant, the campaign is part of their mission to provide excellent, patient-focused healthcare and social services, which respond to the real needs of the community. Also read: Authorities target hawkers and taxi drivers at Witkoppen Bridge 'We believe that everyone deserves access to quality care, regardless of their background or circumstances,' said Shange. 'With your help, we can ensure that no one faces this winter alone.' Last year, the clinic collected and distributed over 250 blankets, and 100 beanies and scarves, from various organisations and individuals. 'We have been blown away by the response from our community. The outpouring of support from donors and supporters has been incredible. We understand that many patients come early to brave the cold weather, making it essential to provide warmth and comfort.' Shange said the primary focus has always been empowerment and betterment of the community, providing excellent patient-centric primary healthcare, and social services, in response to the needs of the community, especially those without medical insurance. Also read: Community called to get flu shots at Witkoppen Clinic 'We are proud to be making a difference in the lives of those around us. The clinic has partnered with the Love Light Care Foundation, Cedar Lakes Care, and Adcock Ingram to amplify the campaign's impact. These organisations have been instrumental in supporting us, and our patients, throughout this campaign.' To be part of the change brought about by Witkoppen Clinic, you can contact them at 011 705 2438 or email: businessd@ Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We'd love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts! At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
