The DA in Limpopo congratulates Hlokomela — one of the province’s largest primary health and social welfare non-governmental organisations (NGOs), headquartered in Hoedspruit, Maruleng — on its 20th anniversary.
Hlokomela (Sepedi for “to care”) was founded by former government nurse and farm wife Christine du Preez. At the time, many farm and seasonal workers and their families in the greater Hoedspruit area were being stricken by what was then a mysterious illness — HIV and AIDS — which was causing devastation across families, communities, and the agricultural economy.
Today, Hlokomela is a well-established, recognised, and respected NGO, providing health and social welfare services not only to the Hoedspruit/Maruleng farming community, but also to workers and communities across the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere region — and beyond. The organisation’s impact is also felt across South Africa’s borders, as many seasonal workers hail from Mozambique and Zimbabwe.
Hlokomela partners with local communities, government departments, other NGOs, and funders to expand its reach and effectiveness.
It is estimated that some 30,000 people benefit directly from Hlokomela’s services, and that each month the NGO helps approximately 1,700 people access HIV testing services, with a further 2,000 people living with HIV receiving antiretroviral treatment.
Through an initiative called Hloko-Miere, the organisation gives young people the opportunity to volunteer — helping them build their CVs and gain valuable experience in the workplace.
Hlokomela epitomises what can be achieved through unwavering dedication to making a meaningful impact on the lives of people and communities — an ethic that should exist across our public service.
We congratulate Hlokomela on its 20th birthday, and salute its founder and director, Christine du Preez.