ParkinsonsZA Mover and Shaker is pioneering a new path for patients in SA – Rakesh Harribhai

The prevalence of Parkinson’s disease (PD) is rising, with 1 in 37 people expected to receive a diagnosis according to Parkinson’s UK. This increase is largely due to growing and ageing populations. In Africa, the relatively younger demographic leads to a lower prevalence, but the continent faces unique challenges in diagnosing and treating PD. Neurologists are scarce, and in South Africa, they are mostly limited to the private healthcare sector, leaving much of the population with insufficient access. Stigma tied to beliefs in witchcraft further isolates individuals with Parkinson’s. Parkinson’s ZA, a non-profit organisation, aims to improve lives impacted by Parkinson’s disease. Founded by Rakesh Harribhai, inspired by his late mother’s experience, the organisation has adapted an Indian model more suited to South Africa’s healthcare context. Currently operating in Durban, Parkinson’s ZA offers diverse activities and plans to expand to Cape Town and Johannesburg, beginning with a care home in Pretoria East. Harribhai said he witnessed how members were isolated, withdrawn, and hesitant and have since embraced activities like table tennis and group outings to the beach.