By Nape Masemola
MEC for Department of Health, Dieketseng Mashego arrives at Mashoanyaneng Village Ga-Masemola, Sekhukhune District for the roll out of Project OWETHU.
The South African Military Health Services (SAMHS), a specialised branch of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), has officially launched Project OWETHU, a massive multi-disciplinary community outreach initiative designed to bridge the healthcare gap in South Africa’s most underserved regions.
The program kicked off this week in the Sekhukhune District, specifically at Mashoanyaneng Village in Ga-Masemola. This collaborative effort brings together SAMHS, the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (LDARD), and the Limpopo Department of Health to provide a “one-stop shop” for essential social and medical services.
Addressing the Surgical Backlog
A key objective of Project OWETHU is to urgently address the surgical backlog that has long burdened the provincial healthcare system. By deploying military medical personnel and resources directly into rural corridors, the project provides immediate relief for patients awaiting elective procedures. Beyond surgery, the outreach offers a comprehensive suite of medical services, including:
- Primary Healthcare: General consultations and screenings.
- Specialised Care: Dentistry, ophthalmology (eye care), and mental health support.
- Preventive Health: Initiatives focused on substance abuse awareness and the promotion of healthy lifestyle choices, aimed at reducing the long-term burden on local clinics.
A Holistic Approach: Agriculture and Veterinary Services
In a unique move that highlights the link between rural livelihoods and community health, the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has joined as a key stakeholder. Recognizing that the health of a rural community is often tied to the health of its livestock, LDARD has provided:
- Veterinary Services by ensuring the well-being of local animals and livestock.
- Extension Services offered technical advice and support to local farmers; and
- Educational Exhibitions by demonstrating sustainable agricultural practices to improve food security.
These services are currently being rolled out across several villages, including Mashoanyaneng, Mahlolaneng, Maraganeneng, Malope, and Makgoabe.
Government Leadership and Future Expansion
To mark the commencement of the project, MEC for Health Dieketseng Mashego, alongside the Speaker of the Makhuduthamaga Local Municipality, Councillor Judy Mphelane-Nkgadima, and Ward 29 Councillor Donald Kgatuke, led a formal walkthrough of the various service stalls. Their presence underscored the provincial government's commitment to strengthening preventative healthcare and psychological well-being in remote areas.
The activation in Sekhukhune was only the beginning. Project OWETHU is scheduled to expand its footprint to the Waterberg District (Ga-Matlou Village) and the Vhembe District (Basani Village) next month. The official provincial launch is earmarked for 17 February 2026 at the Collins Chabane Local Municipality Community Hall, signalling a long-term investment in the dignity and health of Limpopo’s citizens.
Members of the South African Military Health Services at the exhibition stall for the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development during the Project OWETHU outreach in Sekhukhune
