In the footsteps of the legendary Florence Nightingale, 45-year-old Bonteheuwel mother of two, Salama Abrahams has emerged as a strong advocate for community health workers (CHWs) in South Africa, advocating for their rights and acknowledgement.
The CHWs are often seen walking in the streets of the communities, either delivering medication or providing basic medical services to residents.
She first became aware of the difficult circumstances the workers faced in 2018 when she began working in the community health field.
“I couldn't ignore what I saw when I first arrived here since I come from a corporation. These people were being taken advantage of and were not receiving enough assistance.
“One thing that stood out was how UIF was being deducted from their pay but not paid into their accounts.
“I could see that they lacked protection and unions. What was even more shocking was they were only given one month – it was wrong.”
The situation only became worse when the Covid-19 outbreak struck.
Abrahams recalls CHWs being exposed to extreme risks, without proper equipment.
“We had little resources and were dealing with asymptomatic individuals. There were no adequate facilities, and no ‘danger money' to make up for it.”
Abrahams was nevertheless motivated by her co-workers' enthusiasm and commitment in spite of the difficulties
“I was reminded about Florence Nightingale, the mother of nurses, that she was also not schooled but rather taught by her daddy, and how her compassion and dedication for taking care of people was her strength, so we forged on.
“Now we take care of a lot more than just the ill. We provide TB treatment, HIV testing, palliative care, wound care, despite being viewed as unfit and written off as volunteers.”
“Though it's not about the money for us, but rather the calling and the care we give to others, we still want and deserve proper treatment,” she said.
It was Abrahams' dedication and loyalty towards her co-workers that then earned her a new title as the National Organiser of South African Health Workers Forum.
“The title kicked in with immediate effect,” she said laughing.
“Five of the nine provinces voted for me. When they called my name, I had butterflies in my stomach, it really felt like flutters. I was overwhelmed, but I knew this was bigger than me. I prayed, asking God to guide me.”
As National Organiser, Abrahams has vowed to bridge the gap between CHWs across South Africa and the Department of Health.
Her colleague, Michelle Jansen, 54, said Abrahams being nominated as the National Organiser comes as no surprise.
“I've worked with her for the past three years and you can literally see the hard work she puts into fighting for us. She is much like the mommy, even though she is younger than us, she guides us, stands behind us and always helps us.
“I am so proud of her, really I am, I know in her new role she will excel. She changed my life in this short period of time, imagine what she can do for others.”
The Bonteheuwel Development Forum congratulated Abrahams on her new role.
“We extend our sincerest wishes to our Health Officer Salama Abrahams, offering our full support and encouragement as she embarks on her new role as National Organiser of the South African Care Workers Forum.
“We are deeply proud of her unwavering dedication to advocating for humane healthcare and decent working conditions for vulnerable primary healthcare workers and the working class as a whole.
“We pledge our continued support and commitment to her success in this new capacity. We wish our sister all the best in her future endeavors and know that she shall inspire others to join our cause.”
tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za