In a focused effort to advance South Africa’s fight against tuberculosis (TB), Isibani Development Partners, working in partnership with the Ekurhuleni Department of Health District, conducted a targeted TB outreach intervention at Boksburg Correctional Facility. This initiative was in response to a rising number of TB contact cases traced to eight confirmed index cases, six drug-sensitive and two drug-resistant.
Through the deployment of Isibani’s Mobile Digital Chest X-ray (DCXR) Unit, this intervention brought much-needed TB screening services directly to those most vulnerable, demonstrating a proactive and people-centred approach to healthcare. The activity also aligns with the National Department of Health’s 2025 TB Campaign, “Yes! You and I Can End TB – Commit, Invest, Deliver,” which calls for collective action in accelerating the country’s progress towards TB elimination.
Why It Matters
Correctional facilities are widely recognised as high-risk environments for TB transmission. Structural factors such as overcrowding, inadequate ventilation, and prolonged exposure to infected individuals create conditions that accelerate the spread of TB. Intervening in such settings is not only essential for the health of incarcerated individuals but is critical for the broader public health system, as undiagnosed and untreated cases pose ongoing risks to surrounding communities.
As one Isibani team member remarked,
“TB doesn’t wait. It doesn’t discriminate.”
Bringing Healthcare Closer to the People
A key feature of the intervention was the use of integrated screening technology. The combination of mobile DCXR screening and GeneXpert testing enabled early and accurate detection. Individuals who screened positive were immediately referred to the Department of Health’s TB programme for appropriate treatment and follow-up. “This initiative is not just about clinical testing, it’s about restoring dignity,” said a representative from Isibani Development Partners. “When healthcare is brought directly to people in high-risk settings, we eliminate barriers, reduce stigma, and accelerate time to diagnosis and care.”
A Model for Community-Centred TB Response
This screening campaign is part of Isibani’s broader commitment to supporting the National TB Programme by prioritising underserved populations. Through collaborative, evidence-based interventions, the organisation continues to strengthen the national response to TB, focusing on innovation, equity, and patient dignity.
Looking Forward
As the country moves further into the 2025 TB campaign year, Isibani Development Partners remains steadfast in its mission to bring healthcare where it is needed most. The Boksburg Correctional Facility intervention stands as a reminder that ending TB requires bold leadership, cross-sector collaboration, and the willingness to meet communities where they are. Health is a fundamental human right. Whether behind high walls or in under-resourced neighbourhoods, every individual deserves timely, dignified, and equitable access to care.
Together, we can end TB. But it will take commitment from all of us.
Join Our Team!
Assets Administrator
Isibani seeks to appoint an Assets Administrator that will be responsible for the overall asset management of the organization.
For more information view the pdf:
Asset Administrator
Please make sure to submit all the required documents and send an email to: applications@isibani.org.za
Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting, and Learning Manager
Isibani seeks to appoint a Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting, and Learning Manager who will be responsible for providing strategic direction and overseeing all aspects of MERL for the Global Fund TB/HIV grant activities.
For more information please view the pdf:
onitoring, Evaluation, Reporting and Learning Manager
Please make sure to submit all the required documents and send an email to: applications@isibani.org.za
