On October 30th, the Desmond Tutu Health Foundation (DTHF) hosted a Science and Community event, reflecting on its decades-long journey from humble beginnings in compassionate HIV care to its current role as a pioneering force in healthcare research and community-centered solutions. Foundational to DTHF’s ethos has been an unwavering commitment to addressing public health challenges by integrating scientific research with the voices and needs of local communities.
Compassionate Beginnings and Expanding HIV Treatment Access
In the early days of the HIV epidemic, DTHF emerged as a lifeline for those living with HIV, focusing on compassionate care at a time when treatment was not available in South Africa. This foundation in empathy has been a guiding principle in DTHF’s evolution. “We should give ourselves a bit of a pat on the shoulder for the South African ARV programme in general… we’ve come a long way,” remarked CEO Professor Linda-Gail Bekker, highlighting DTHF’s role in advocating for antiretroviral access amidst political and financial obstacles.
Tackling TB and HIV Co-Infections
With TB as a significant health concern in South Africa, DTHF recognised the critical overlap between HIV and TB, channeling resources to study and address this co-epidemic. “The Desmond Tutu Foundation has made the study of TB and HIV co-epidemics one of our priorities to try and help find solutions for South Africa,” shared Dr Keren Middelkoop. By developing programmes that address both infections concurrently, DTHF has enhanced the efficacy of treatment and prevention efforts in communities where they are prevalent.
Community Engagement at the Core
DTHF has always prioritized community engagement, understanding that the most impactful healthcare interventions are those developed with input from the very people they aim to serve. “Collaborating with community stakeholders on formative research activities builds trust and lays the foundation for meaningful engagement,” explained Bekker, adding that “Putting people in the middle of our care… understanding that it’s for people that we provide the health service.” By integrating community feedback from the start of intervention development, DTHF tailors its health programmes and research to address real needs, ensuring both effectiveness and acceptability in its initiatives.
Social Behavioral Sciences and Health Policy Influence
DTHF’s influence extends beyond clinical research to health policy, contributing valuable data and insights that have shaped national and international standards in HIV and TB care. Recognising the importance of social factors in health, DTHF also emphasizes the role of behavioural sciences, helping to develop programmes that integrate social behavioural sciences and biomedical research “Just having medicine and pills without people isn’t the answer… we need to engage patients to address the behavioral side of health,” noted social-behavioural lead Dr Millicent Atujuna, underscoring DTHF’s holistic approach to healthcare delivery. “We see ourselves moving towards biobehavioral studies, where behavioral interventions support clinical outcomes in a medical context.”
Empowering Adolescents and Key Populations
Adolescents and key populations have been a focal point of DTHF’s work, from educating youth on PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) to creating inclusive healthcare spaces for LGBTQIA+ communities. reflecting on DTHF’s commitment to empowering youth and marginalized communities through comprehensive health services. “Our main aim is to promote equitable access to appropriate and affirming healthcare services for the LGBTI population through research, community engagement, and advocacy,” noted Amelia Mfiki, Community Liaison Office.
In addition, DTHF’s Mpilo Health Park offers a safe, accessible space for young people to engage in physical activity and access health screenings. Social-behavioural scientist, Dr Melissa Wallace emphasized the importance of early interventions: “Mental health conditions actually manifest often during adolescence, with 75% of mental health problems in adults originating during this period, so intervening during adolescence can significantly alter the trajectory of health in adulthood. The Mpilo Health Park provides a safe, accessible, and affordable space for youth to engage in physical activity and access health screenings in an adolescent-responsive environment.”
LGBTQIA+ Advocacy and Inclusivity in Healthcare
As part of its mission to foster inclusive healthcare, DTHF established a dedicated division for LGBTQIA+ health, creating safe spaces and promoting equitable access to healthcare services. “Our main aim is to promote equitable access to appropriate and affirming healthcare services for the LGBTQIA+ population through research, community engagement, and advocacy,” remarked Mfiki. DTHF’s efforts have led to significant policy changes, including the Department of Health’s commitment to inclusive administrative practices for LGBTQIA+ individuals. “Today, the Department of Health has a position paper on inclusivity for transgender and LGBTI persons, marking our impact on policy and administrative forms for healthcare.”
Responding to COVID-19 and Expanding to NCDs
During the COVID-19 pandemic, DTHF played a crucial role in South Africa’s response through the Sisonke trial, which provided vaccinations to healthcare workers. “By vaccinating healthcare workers through Sisonke, we averted 1,700 hospitalizations and directly saved the lives of 568 healthcare workers,” shared Dr Steven Innes, emphasizing the trial’s life-saving impact.
In recent years, DTHF has broadened its focus to include non-communicable diseases (NCDs), addressing the rising rates of conditions like diabetes, hypertension and mental health in South Africa. Through screenings and integrated healthcare models, DTHF aims to offer comprehensive care that supports both infectious and chronic disease prevention and treatment.
A Community-Led Approach to Science and Health
At the heart of DTHF’s success is a deep commitment to community-driven solutions. “The best science we’ve had is when we put our ear to the community… ask them what their solutions are,” stated Bekker. This approach has not only fostered trust but also ensured that DTHF’s interventions are grounded in the realities of the communities they serve. “Building trust with communities is not about imposing research; it’s about understanding their needs, respecting their culture, and working with them to find solutions,” said Nombeko Mpongo, Community Liaison Administrator.
As DTHF moves forward, it continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact, embodying a model of healthcare that is as compassionate as it is comprehensive. The event underscored the foundation’s commitment to health equity, its innovative approaches to public health, and its unwavering dedication to those it serves.
You can watch recordings of the presentations at the links below.
PART 1: https://bit.ly/3YV9CRq
PART 2: https://bit.ly/3AG1Kty
PART 3: https://bit.ly/3UM34lx
