Interview with Joseph Mohlala – Councilor in Sekhukhune

"Before TCE our people were lost when it comes to HIV and AIDS. People were not testing and were not disclosing their status." Says Councilor Mohlala

Question

How long have you known TCE and tell us a bit about your contact with TCE?

Joseph Mohlala - Councilor

I met TCE in 2003. It was a program brought by good Samaritans, I can say. They approached me as a councilor. I created space for them to explain their idea, and when they presented, it became clear I had to be part of them. I had to assist, lead and guide them on how to unfold in this area. We had problems with some stakeholders, especially traditional leaders, but we were patient and explained the program to everyone, - that TCE was not for the leaders but for the community. We created a good working environment at the end.

Our area has over 7000 people. The majority of which are youth. Before TCE our people were lost when it comes to HIV and AIDS. People were not testing and were not disclosing their status. Some were not even getting their results from the Department of Health. But with the assistance of TCE we were able to engage most of the people in the area, and the Department of Health which provided a mobile clinic. This yard in my house was where we had mobile VCT clinics. In the beginning it was few people coming, but with time it became a habit and many people used to come and ask when the next mobile VCT clinic was coming.  I have been with TCE for a long time, and I see it as my family.

Questions

I understand you have been a WAR Room Leader? Have the Field Officers been accepted by the community? What have been your tasks and responsibilities as a WAR Room Leader? (a community leader who uses excess effort to lead the Field Officers, locally)

Joseph Mohlala - Councilor

The Field Officers were well accepted by the community. Because when they did their activities, I found time to follow up. I went to check their work and also to interview the community about the information they were getting from them. The community was confident with the Field Officers.  

After TCE there are a lot of activities around in the area. People are free to talk about the disease. It’s not a taboo anymore. People accept TCE and recognize the Field Officers and their red shirts. They accept them anytime whether it’s raining, windy and even if there is mud the Field Officers are accepted. 

My task as a WAR Room Leader was to see that the Field Officers were reporting for work on time and that they were operating within the frames of the TCE program and reaching their targets. I was strict with the Field Officers and ensured that no one tried to destroy the good program.

Question

Would you recommend TCE to other councilors and for funding from the government?

Joseph Mohlala - Councilor

I am busy at Capricorn now to spark the work of TCE in Capricorn, Fetakgomo and other districts, am recommending it. The values and norms that TCE has given our people are valuable and highly appreciated. As such I would recommend every leader in any community to invite and support the work for TCE.