News

The 8th South African TB Conference is scheduled to take place from June 3-7 at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Durban. This conference provides an essential forum for discussing tuberculosis (TB) control and related challenges. THINK will be represented by Masingita Lambane, who heads the Strategic Partnerships and Community Systems. Masingita will be present in various parallel discussions and cover the following topics: Unlocking Health Beyond TB: The Transformative Impact of Mobile Digital Chest X-ray Units as an entry in Initiating Holistic Diagnosis. Care and School-Based Contact Tracing: Addressing Tuberculosis (TB) in a community. Dr. Louisa Dunn, a technical [...]

In this Q&A session we find out more about Dr Mosidi and her role in the USAID Accelerate 2 project. Q: Please tell us briefly what this big, exciting project entails. A: ACCELERATE 2 embodies a beacon of hope and vitality for those it serves. While its primary focus lies in TB control, the project extends its reach to fortifying the systems and processes within our healthcare sector, particularly in enhancing access to care. The profound impact of these endeavours will resonate across various health programmes. It's not merely about identifying and treating TB cases; it's about catalysing a transformation [...]

From coffee-fuelled conversations about AI advancing healthcare to networking and breaking barriers across north-south divides, the THINK x SASUF Satellite Events, held in Copenhagen, were a journey of insights and connections! THINK Network hosted two workshops, as part of the South Africa - Sweden University Forum (SASUF) Satellite Events 2024. The first workshop was about Sustainable Global Health Care and the Role of AI in Bridging North-South Divides, and the second one was on Exploring Community Engagement and Co-Design of Health Interventions from South Africa to Sweden. The workshops were facilitated by THINKers Kristina Wallengren and Suzanne Staples. During the [...]

ChiliPref SF Study Site Visit The Hillcrest Clinical Trial Unit (HCTU) conducted a site initiation visit for the ChilPref SF study with team members from the Desmond Tutu TB Centre. The visit occurred from April 24 to 26. This particular study is one of multiple studies within the BENEFIT Kids programme funded by @Unitaid, and it focuses on identifying the most palatable formulations for crucial medicines used for the treatment of drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB). A "swish and spit" taste testing approach will be adopted in healthy volunteer children. Essentially, children will be asked to swirl the medication in their mouths [...]

In this Q&A session, we find out more about Dr Mutambo and her role in the USAID Accelerate 2 project. Q: Please tell us briefly what this big, exciting project entails. A: The Accelerate 2 project is an initiative funded by USAID aimed at supporting South Africa's mission to eliminate tuberculosis (TB) in 7 high burden districts. Through targeted interventions focused on early detection, appropriate treatment, and prevention, particularly among vulnerable populations, Accelerate 2 seeks to bolster TB control efforts in high-burden districts and provincial levels. By providing technical support, implementing innovative program models, and building the capacity of healthcare [...]

Source: THINK: Tackling Public Health Issues - Africa Outlook MagazineTACKLING PUBLIC HEALTH ISSUESAccording to the World Health Organisation (WHO), tuberculosis (TB) remains the leading cause of death amongst people living with HIV across the world, with the two illnesses being intrinsically linked and in need of vital support.It is from this critical need that THINK was established by Dr Kristina Wallengren as a non-profit company in 2013, with the founding purpose of making a difference to individuals affected by TB and HIV.Today, the organisation has broadened its scope to improve the health and well-being of vulnerable communities locally and globally.With its [...]

In an ongoing effort to lessen and eliminate tuberculosis (TB) burden in South Africa, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has awarded THINK (TB and HIV Investigative Network) funding to roll out the Tuberculosis Elimination and Program Resilience Activity (Accelerate 2), which will run until 2028. ACCELERATE is the flagship USAID/SA TB project, and USAID is the project donor that provides essential funding and support for the execution and scaling of TB control initiatives.THINK Accelerate 2 Project is a cutting-edge initiative focused on accelerating tuberculosis elimination and enhancing the resilience of health programs in targeted provinces. The project aims to [...]

Mr Trevor Mvundura, Country CEO at THINK (Tuberculosis & HIV Investigative Network), clinched an illustrious opportunity when he was selected for The Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders. This incredibly inspiring program is part of the U.S. Government's Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). The programme is designed to empower young leaders between their early 20s and mid-30s who have already demonstrated exceptional leadership potential within their communities, organisations, and countries. Since its inception in 2014, over 6,500 young leaders from every country in Sub-Saharan Africa have participated in this Fellowship. Trevor, also an accountant by profession, is at the helm [...]

  The recent THINK South Africa Roadshow got traction when Trevor Mvundura, our Country CEO, conducted a series of activities – kicking off at the Head Office in Hillcrest on March 1, and continuing throughout the country at the Mangaung office in Bloemfontein, the Fezile Dabi office in Sasolburg, the Centurion office between Pretoria and Midrand, the Vhembe office in Louis Trichardt, and finally the DOH office in Sekhukhune. In his opening remarks, Trevor welcomed all colleagues at THINK by reiterating that they are the most valuable resource for the longevity and sustainability of our organisation. He explained that this [...]

By Dr Munira Khan THINK South Africa's clinical trial unit in Hillcrest is excited to share updates on progress made for the TB ALLIANCE NC009 trial, as well as more info about the ChilPref Ext study The TB ALLIANCE NC009 trial is currently being conducted in five countries and aims to determine the safety of an investigational product in patients with bacteriologically confirmed drug-sensitive TB. One of the potential benefits of the trial is a shortened treatment period from 24 weeks to 15 weeks. The Hillcrest Clinical Trial Unit (HCTU) was approved to start screening for the study on December [...]

Meet an inspiring THINKer who lives our values entirely and truthfully – both at work and at home Born and raised in Pietermaritzburg, love and kindness were the cornerstones of Noluthando Gwala’s upbringing, shaping the way she lives her life. Now, as a mother of two wonderful boys, she devotes much of her free time to exploring new recipes with them, watching movies, dancing to the latest TikTok trends, and reading – especially Bible stories. “My tenure at THINK has been truly remarkable, especially considering it's only been nine months. It already feels like I've been part of this family [...]

By Michaela Higgins Sørensen In the world of non-profit organisations, allocating resources to communications is often left to the last slice of the budget cake. Understandably so, especially when funds are primarily directed towards specialised research, such as revolutionising tuberculosis treatment and changing WHO guidelines. However, at THINK, a research-driven NGO dedicated to healthcare advancement in Southern Africa, we recognise the evolving landscape and the need to elevate our communication efforts alongside our impact. Founded upon a commitment to research and innovation, THINK has significantly improved healthcare outcomes for over half a million individuals in South Africa. Yet, as we [...]

By Ziyuan Aria Zhou The Africa Health Conference, hosted by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, serves as a platform for discussing and disseminating the transformative initiatives shaping the healthcare landscape across the African continent. Under the theme ‘Mapping Changemakers Transforming Health in Africa’ this year, the conference explored a range of critical themes that capture the complexities of Africa’s healthcare challenges and triumphs. It aimed to highlight the ground-breaking innovations and effective policies that have significantly improved health outcomes in various African communities. The conference was infused with a diverse group of actors – including healthcare professionals, policymakers, [...]

By Allison Naidoo On February 26th, THINK South Africa collaborated with the National Bioproducts Institute (NBI) for an awareness drive during the NBI Wellness Walkabout, highlighting our shared mission for a healthier future. In the heart of Paradise Valley, the NBI stands as a beacon of hope for South African patients. For more than three decades, NBI has been a cornerstone in the production of essential plasma-derived products, marking a significant journey towards improved health. In the TEAMWORK Meeting Room, service providers shared healthcare insights as attendees moved with purpose, representing a commitment to better health. The event's slogan, "Take A [...]

World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, observed annually on March 24, serves as a crucial platform to raise awareness about the global TB epidemic and its profound health, social, and economic impacts. According to World Health Organisation (WHO) data, South Africa ranks among the top five countries worldwide with the highest burden of TB, with over 500 cases per 100,000 population. THINK South Africa, is a local non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing health and well-being for vulnerable communities, proudly stands in solidarity with the world in commemorating World TB Day. The theme for this year is 'Yes! You and I Can End TB,' [...]

THINK, a health impact and research organisation are at the forefront of World TB Day initiatives to improve the quality of life for people affected by TB in South Africa and around the world. THINK is part of the ongoing planning meetings led by the office of the Premier in KwaZulu-Natal. World TB Day is a global commemoration held on 24th March of each year and is aimed at building public awareness.  It provides an opportunity for every community to unite in the fight against TB and show support for people infected and affected by TB. Planning and implementation of the [...]

Let’s meet our new interns in Denmark, and our new students in South Africa! But first, we welcome Michaela – who after a 3-month internship is now onboard with us as THINK Denmark’s Communications Officer. Michaela Higgins Sørensen Communications Officer, Denmark Hi everyone! I'm Michaela, a 27-year-old Danish South African who grew up in Mozambique, but am currently based in Copenhagen. I completed my master’s degree in June 2021, at Aalborg University in Denmark, in Development and International Relations – with a specialisation in Global Gender Studies. For the past four years, I have been working in the gender, peace, [...]

Ladies; prioritise your health! Empower yourself with knowledge and regular check-ups to ensure early detection Dr Susan Ford, research doctor at our Clinical Research Unit, has underscored the importance of women's health – a topic that deeply resonates with her. With women often serving as primary caregivers for family members, they sometimes overlook their own health. Susan stresses the value of women's health, particularly in routine checks to detect cancers such as breast cancer and cervical cancer. Breast cancer, apart from non-melanoma skin cancer, stands as the most prevalent cancer in women of all races, with a lifetime risk of [...]

Let's take a look at some of the amazing work we have done!

Get to know THINKer Fanelesibonge Msimango – and her wonderful interpretation of THINK culture and values! Fanele joined THINK in February this year as a Data Clerk on the ADAPT project. When the ADAPT project concluded in April, she applied for her current role as a Linkage Coordinator. “In this capacity, I collaborate closely with Linkage Officers to oversee the management of linkage activities. My responsibilities include coordinating the efforts of Linkage Officers, monitoring progress, evaluating performance, conducting quality control and quality assurance checks on THINK Linkage Trackers, and compiling comprehensive linkage reports on a monthly and quarterly basis for programs,” [...]

In the first part of this year, THINK broadened the scope of the Clinical Trial Unit to include a Male Medical Circumcision (MMC) program. This single intervention reduces the risk of heterosexual transmission of HIV from women to men by about 60%. Further, it reduces the risk of sexually transmitted infections, penile cancer in men, and cervical cancer in female partners of circumcised men. The successful rollout of the MMC program has been spearheaded by a dedicated multi-disciplinary team. Supported by a technical lead and a program manager, our clinical team – comprised of skilled medical officers, professional nurses, a [...]

South Africa is among the top five countries with the highest burden of TB.  However, the government recently announced it would be slashing its budget for TB research grants. Now, a researcher plans to use AI to analyse TB data. Machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) may become a key weapon in fighting South Africa's tuberculosis scourge – which sees as many as 300 000 new infections and more than 50 000 deaths per year. World Health Organisation data places South Africa among the top five countries in the world with the highest burden of TB, with more than 500 cases [...]

Programme will target African health sector workers looking to improve efficiency and outcomes A South African NGO plans to set up a hub in Durban where people working in public health throughout Africa can come to learn how to use AI chatbots in their work. THNK, a non-profit company founded in 2013 to help people affected by TB and HIV, says it hopes to have the hub up and running by mid-2024. The training will build on methods to use ChatGPT to improve the efficiency and outcome of health programmes developed by THINK under a Gates Foundation funded seed project. Last [...]

Get up, close and personal with our Senior IT Officer, Bekani Samuel Nsibanyoni! Find out why he places such high importance on IT proficiency, and learn more about his vision of creating an IT Training Development Centre. Q: What can you tell us about the Digital Discovery Hub? A: Today THINK relies heavily on computerised technology to efficiently complete various amounts of tasks. As part of our mission to create a workplace that is efficient and effective from a technology point of view, I would like to embark on a journey that allows us to ensure all THINKers have access to [...]

SUCCESS STORY 1A 20-year-old male came to Ladysmith’s Steadville clinic on March 21 this year, presenting with loss of appetite, loss of energy, loss of weight, coughing and vomiting blood. Signs and symptoms of TB was noted. Sputum for GXP taken, and the result was positive with Rifampicin Resistance – on March 24. He was referred to Ladysmith Hospital for treatment, and subsequently to Estcourt for DR-TB initiation.Tracing by the Department of Health was done, and seven contacts identified – all tested on March 28, no under 5s included. The THINK team then got an invite from the DoH to come [...]

The team at our uMkhanyakude district office has received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Provincial Office for reaching the target TB success rate.A celebration at the Provincial TB Workshop recently took place, where uMkhanyakude was recognised for doing an excellent job in managing cases of both Drug-Sensitive (DS) and Drug-Resistant (DR) TB.For the last three years, uMkhanyakude has shown great dedication to taking care of TB patients. They achieved a success rate of 88% - 89% in treating DS TB, which shows that this fabulous THINK team provide high-quality care to people with TB. uMkhanyakude also managed to meet and maintain [...]

The uMgungundlovu district, a vital hub serving 10% of the provincial population, is a diverse district where challenges overpower opportunities – as the district addresses socio-economic issues like informal settlements and the existing vulnerable key population demographic. With seven municipalities under its umbrella – uMshwathi, Umgeni, Mpofana, Impendle, Msunduzi, UMkhambathini, and Richmond – the district strives to collate a collective response to healthcare needs. There are currently 28 facilities in the district receiving support from THINK's DSD and roving teams; 10 facilities receive direct support from our DSD staff, while 18 benefit from technical assistance via roving teams. Our commitment [...]

We're thrilled to bring you the latest happenings at our new home in Copenhagen! We're now sharing an open office space with our partners at Dalberg Media. A leading social impact advisory group that brings together strategy consulting, design thinking, big data analytics, research, and implementation to address complex social and environmental challenges, Dalberg is a dynamic organisation you should definitely get to know. In our lively co-working environment, we're surrounded by about 30 brilliant minds, mainly from Dalberg. But that's not all! We're also sharing the space with Nordic Safe Cities, an NGO committed to fostering inclusive and safe urban [...]

We all know and love the wonderful THINK culture – a vital part of every THINKers well-being and motivation to make a difference daily. Although most of us have individual takes on how we define this unique culture, at the end of the day it all boils down to aligning with our core values. Let’s hear what our inspiring leader, Trevor Mvundura, has to say in this fun Q&A session! Q: What defines the THINK culture? A: When asked about THINK's culture, I’d say it's anchored in our core values. Our team's passion for the work we do is palpable. [...]