On June 17th, the Rena le Rona Creative Centre for Children hosted a powerful and engaging Kidney Awareness Day, bringing together a diverse group of community members, healthcare professionals, kidney disease survivors, and supporters for a day focused on education, prevention, and life-saving advocacy.
The event, guided by lively MCs Simphiwe Mini and Precious Diamond, combined heartfelt storytelling, music, free health services, and powerful calls to action to highlight the impact of kidney disease and the importance of early detection and organ donation. Attendees had the opportunity to learn directly from medical professionals about the causes, symptoms, and preventative strategies related to kidney disease, while also hearing emotional first-hand accounts from kidney failure survivors who live with the challenges of the condition every day.
A number of key stakeholders supported the event and helped make it a resounding success. Organizations such as Cell C, Diepkloof Radio, Sounds of Azania, and the Pelican Foundation played a vital role, alongside Sukumane Sakhe Isizwe, Ingoni FM, Ezase Three Productions, and UnderKonstruction. Their involvement helped amplify the message, extend the reach of awareness efforts, and provide crucial resources to the community.
To encourage early intervention, attendees received free health screenings, including blood pressure checks, HIV testing, and BMI assessments. These services aimed to detect potential risk factors early, such as hypertension and diabetes, which are leading causes of kidney disease. Through these screenings, the community was empowered to take proactive steps toward managing their health.
Among the most impactful moments were the stories shared by Muzi Ntuli, a kidney transplant recipient and one of the event’s organizers, and Madoda we Dialysis, a local advocate who shares his kidney journey on TikTok. Muzi spoke about the heavy toll dialysis had taken on his life—requiring hospital visits three times a week—yet he emphasized his deep appreciation for life and the power of positivity. Madoda shared how his social media presence has educated thousands about kidney disease, building awareness and hope through storytelling.
To uplift and engage the crowd, the event featured performances by talented artists such as Dr Buselaphi, Hassaan Mangete, Kayise, Thully Duze, Ndumiso Duze and Mthetheleli from Sounds of Azania, Cyclone, and Bushman. Their music and spoken word performances offered a creative way to educate the audience while also celebrating resilience and community spirit.
A central focus of the day was the critical need for more organ donors. With long waiting lists and many individuals depending on dialysis for survival, the event highlighted organ donation as a profound act of generosity that can save lives and restore hope for those living with kidney failure.
Kidney Awareness Day at Rena le Rona Creative Centre for Children was more than just an event—it was a heartfelt and collaborative effort to build a healthier, more informed community. Through education, free health services, artistic expression, and the support of committed stakeholders, the day delivered an urgent message: protect your kidneys, support early detection, and consider becoming an organ donor. Together, we can save lives and uplift those affected by kidney disease.
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