In a remarkable step toward community health and women's empowerment, the Gauteng Department of Health has launched a transformative programme to train women as first responders.
This initiative, part of the department's Women's Month programme, is already making waves with 300 women undergoing intensive training in Braamfischer.
The programme, which focuses on essential life-saving skills such as CPR, wound management, and burn treatment, is part of a broader effort to equip individuals from disadvantaged communities with the knowledge to handle emergencies effectively.
Since its relaunch in 2023, over 6 000 community members have been trained to respond swiftly and effectively in critical situations.
The training, a collaborative effort between the Gauteng Department of Health, Lebone College of Emergency Care in Pretoria , and the South African Congress of Non-profit Organisations, underscores the vital role of community-based first responders.
Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, said: "Accidents and emergencies happen daily in our communities. The presence of a first aid-trained individual can make a profound difference and save someone's life."
She urged the women to not only apply their skills, but also to pass on their knowledge to their families and neighbours, creating a ripple effect of preparedness and resilience.
Chairperson of South African Congress of Non-profit Organisations, Tintswalo Makhubele, emphasised the broader impact of the initiative.
She said many unfortunate incidents occur in communities, including fire-related incidents resulting in burn injuries and loss of life.
“We believe these women will contribute significantly by supporting their communities during emergencies."
She said her words reflect the programme's core mission which is to empower women to act decisively in crises and improve overall community health.
The First Responder Training programme is set to continue its rollout across Gauteng, with training sessions conducted every second week by a team of dedicated emergency care professionals.
This initiative not only aims to enhance emergency response capabilities, but also to foster women's empowerment by placing them at the forefront of community health and safety.
As the programme expands, it is anticipated to have a profound impact on emergency preparedness and response throughout the province.
By equipping women with crucial life-saving skills, the Gauteng Department of Health is paving the way for a more resilient and health-conscious community.
“This initiative marks a significant milestone in both community health and women's empowerment, promising to make a lasting difference in the lives of countless Gauteng residents.” Ralehoko-Nkomo added.
Pretoria News