The “Miracle Train” is indeed a small one-of-a-kind operational ‘miracle’ in its own right since it is the only primary healthcare train of its kind in the world. The train is a working prototype which has been undergoing changes since it’s inception in 1994.

Building this primary health care train became one of the most daunting design and engineering projects tackled by Transnet and its operating divisions – a world first.

Transnet’s operating division, Transnet Rail Engineering, refurbished old coaches and fitted them with special health care equipment. The extensive experience in project management of both Transnet Rail Engineering and Transnet Freight Rail ensured that they were qualified to execute this technically complex project successfully.

The satellite communications network on board includes telephones, fax machines, e-mail and card pay phones (both satellite and cellular) for the students and staff.

Special tents are required to ensure a comfortable waiting area for the patients. A coach is about 22 meters long and specially designed mountings had to be fitted for the whole length of each coach to slide the canvas tenting into. Special tent poles had to be made because the area around the train varied from a normal platform to a lower type platform to no platform at all. Special weights help to stabilize the tent poles when the wind blows.

All compartments on the train have been fitted with air-conditioning units to regulate temperatures inside the train.

"Our thanks is in the look in their eyes." Sr Magedilne Ntikinca

The train is equipped with its own power generator as, under normal operating circumstances, the motion of passenger coaches generates enough electricity for lights and hot water. For this train however, which provides its services whilst stationary, another power source had to be found.

The train is also equipped with a state-of-the-art kitchen and has a capacity to prepare ± 400 meals per day, served in a dining lounge area.

Six weeks prior to the train’s arrival at each station, a marketing at the location to be visited sets up a Community Steering Committee. This committee then takes increasing responsibility for the ongoing marketing of the train’s arrival, the selection of volunteers to participate in the Basic Health Care Programme and the identification and selection of locals who are employed to assist in the train’s operations for the week (i.e. as cleaners, interpreters, tent construction, laundry and scullery work). In this way, the Phelophepa provides each community with an opportunity to become involved.

"I have grown with this train and maybe it has grown with me." Sydwell Maswanganyi

Phelophepa has become a well-known and trusted beacon of hope and better health in rural South-Africa. Years of involvement with communities taught us that people can be both interesting and unpredictable. In some towns people will be prepared for the train’s arrival and are willing to assist in any way to ensure the success of the train’s visit. In other towns, the preparation may not be on the same level with more challenges to overcome. Above all, it remains clear that the Phelophepa Health Care Train has built a reputation for itself over the years and that we are associated with a project that is synonymous with healing and hope for disadvantaged communities.

The Training Institutions contracted to facilitate the marketing procedures are rendering a quality service and appreciate the opportunity it offers them and their students to enhance their marketing skills.

Transnet Foundation and Phelophepa do not travel the tracks alone. We are supported by various committed companies and individuals who, like us, realize that the Phelophepa project is not just to something invest in but also to believe in. We screen our supporters carefully and would do nothing to jeopardise this project. Transnet Foundation has forged partnerships with Training Institutions throughout South Africa to develop and enhance the health care profession’s skills base. Every two weeks students representing various faculties come to the train from their academic institutions to serve and gain valuable hands on experience and mentoring from the permanent staff.

"...the train is for everyone." Dr Lilian Cingo

Transnet’s financial commitment is reflected in its capital and operational investment. There are also opportunities for external stakeholders to add value through their financial contributions, participation and professional expertise.

Students working on the train represent a microcosm of South Africans coming from all ethnic, religious and culture groups. To many, this becomes a life – changing experience. Functioning and interacting in a multi disciplinary health setting expose them to a holistic approach whilst treating patients.

Final year students in dentistry, oral hygiene, psychology, nursing, optometry, pharmacy and catering participate in this project.

Transnet salutes all the role-players, academic institutions, the public and private sector, community leaders and their communities for their involvement and support.