From Monday, 28 April to Friday, 2 May, the Transnet Phelophepa II Healthcare Train will be stationed at the Ermelo Railway Station, bringing affordable, accessible, and professional healthcare services directly to the community.
This mobile clinic-on-rails offers a range of essential health services – many of which are free or offered at a nominal fee.
Please note: Services are free for children under 16 and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Community members are encouraged to arrive early to secure assistance.
What is Phelophepa?
The Transnet Phelophepa Health Trains are world-renowned mobile clinics that provide healthcare to underserved rural communities across South Africa. With only one doctor for every 5,000 patients in many areas, Phelophepa fills a critical gap in service delivery.
“Phelophepa” means “good, clean health” in Sotho and Venda. Operated by the Transnet Foundation and supported by major sponsor Roche, the trains have been delivering quality care since 1994 — bringing not just healthcare, but hope.
Equipped with professional staff, consulting rooms, and even an emergency unit, the Phelophepa train continues to be a lifeline for thousands across the country.
Photo: www.roche.co.za
Phelophepa Timeline
1993– The ‘Eye Train’, with three carriages, makes its first journey
1994– Phelophepa takes to the rails and Roche steps aboard as a main sponsor
2001– The health clinic is renamed the Roche Health Clinic
2003-06 – HIV/AIDS awareness programmes reach millions of people
2008 – Phelophepa receives UN recognition for improving delivery of services
2009 – The train grows to its current length of 18 coaches
2009 – Established cancer health awareness service, including screening, staff training, patient counselling and education
2010 – The Roche Health Clinic undergoes a full refurbishment
2012 – Phelophepa II launches in South Africa, doubling healthcare capacity for the service
2013 – Cancer anti-stigma activities are piloted with the Cancer Awareness Program
2014 - Phelophepa I and II fully operational as of 20th January
