Boots on the ground in Ikwezi, Khayelithsa | Western Cape Government

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Boots on the ground in Ikwezi, Khayelithsa

16 July 2021

Western Cape Department of Health in partnership with NPO partners, Ward Councillors and the local Neighbourhood watch group have embarked on a registration drive and pop-up vaccination site at a local shopping centre in Ikwezi, Khayelitsha on Thursday 15 July.  This forms part of the departments continued proactive plan to identify communities with low registration rates, engage around strategies that work locally and proceed to bring opportunities to register and vaccinate vulnerable community members closer to their homes. 

Ms. Nomthetho Dyantyi, age 63, was motivated to come to the vaccination site by her daughter.  “At first I was quite skeptical to be vaccinated, but I have thought about it and changed my mind. Three of my sisters have been vaccinated and are fine. So that convinced me to take the opportunity today.” 

The task team walked door to door and to inform residents that they were able to come to the vacant shop that was set up as a vaccination site to not only register, but vaccinate too.  Residents streamed in steadily during the day and were quite keen to take up the opportunity.   Ms Razia Vallie, Vaccine Project co-ordinator for Khayelitsha and Eastern substructure shared, “As it stands we have had 60 registrations and vaccinations thus far, and still members of the public are continuing to come.  We are working to ensure that there will be continued efforts across the district to increase opportunities for education, registration and vaccination.”

Mr John Dyan, age 56, was one of the neighbourhood watch team members who had the opportunity to register and vaccinate as well. “I came today to assist with the registration drive.  When one of the health care members explained the benefits of vaccinating and how it would protect me, I wanted to do it.  I am thankful for this opportunity today”

Media Enquiries: 

Natalie Watlington
Principal Communications Officer: Southern Western Sub-structures
Department of Health
Western Cape Government
Address: Southern and Western Sub Structure Office: Cnr White and Main Roads, Retreat
Tel: 021 202 0947
Mobile: 081 277 0516