ProTB bridges the gap between clinics and high-burden communities. Through community initiatives and activations with mobile X-rays, contact tracing, and treatment support, this project removes
barriers to care, reduces stigma, and ensures that no one is left behind in the community of These stories highlight the resilience of individuals and the impact of collaborative efforts in the journey towards ending TB in KwaZakhele Gqeberha, Eastern Cape. 

Anelisa Ngcukuva – Compassion in Action
For Aurum CHW Anelisa Ngcukuva, working in ProTB is more than just a job-it’s a calling.

“I live in this community, which makes my work so much easier,” Anelisa explains. “After work, I visit households, educate families about TB, and encourage them to come to the clinic the next day. If they can’t, I go with them. I even dip into my own pocket to help because I understand their struggles.”

Anelisa’s compassionate approach has changed lives. She recalls supporting a struggling family where unemployment and alcoholism created a difficult environment. By stepping in to assist, she not only ensured the children received care but also motivated the parents to complete their treatment. “We’re not just here to treat TB; we’re here to support and walk alongside our community,” she says.

Ntombikayise Mjikeliso – Finding Hope for a Fighter
When Ntombikayise Mjikeliso, a CHW in KwaZakhele, met Abihail Bash, she was frail, confined to a wheelchair, and had nearly given up hope. 

“I knew her as a contact for a DR-TB patient in the community. Despite several tests, her TB diagnosis was elusive. But I didn’t give up,” Ntombikayise
says. With determination, she encouraged Abihail to undergo further tests, eventually leading to a diagnosis.

Ntombikayise became Abihail’s pillar of support, offering encouragement, home visits, and friendship. “She became my sister,” Abihail says. “Her support is the reason I’m here today. I’ve gained weight and strength, and I’m two months into my treatment.” Through ProTB, Ntombikayise has seen stigma diminish as community members grow more informed. “Now, people come to me for help instead of avoiding the clinic. It’s incredible to see the change.”

Abihail Bash – A Fighter’s Journey
For Abihail, her journey with TB was marked by despair before she connected with ProTB. “I was so sick I couldn’t even bathe myself. I’d been to so many clinics and doctors, spending money I didn’t have, but still couldn’t get a diagnosis,” she recalls. Everything changed when she met Ntombikayise, who guided her to the right tests and ensured she started treatment immediately.

“She came to my house, checked on me on WhatsApp, and made me feel cared for. That support gave me the strength to fight.” Abihail now advocates for others to seek help. “Don’t be scared of the treatment. Just take it, pray, and stay strong. Look at me - I’m here, gaining weight, and getting better every day.”

A Partnership That Works – KwaZakhele Clinic and ProTB

Cebisa Ngcethane, a health promotion practitioner at KwaZakhele Community Health Centre, describes the collaboration with ProTB as a “partnership of convenience.” “Our system used to be so slow, especially for X-rays and sputum collection, but ProTB has changed that. They provide mobile X-rays, conduct outreach, and have CHWs who go directly to people’s homes,” Tabitha explains.
This collaboration allows the clinic to focus on other tasks while reaching more people.

“The resources they bring and the work they do in the community make our job much easier. Together, we’re preventing TB and catching cases earlier,” she adds.

By weaving together the efforts of healthcare workers, the resilience of patients, and the power of partnerships, ProTB is redefining TB care in South Africa. These stories demonstrate that with dedication, innovation, and compassion, ending TB is within reach.