Hundreds of women from the South African Entrepreneurs Network (SAWEN), gathered at the Moruleng Stadium outside Rustenburg, on Thursday 29 August to get the latest insights on how to live a healthy, balanced life. These women were eager to change their lifestyles and conform to living healthier so that they cannot only extend their lives, but can also improve the quality thereof.
Speaking at the event, the Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Ms Elizabeth Thabethe reminded the women that wellness is sound physical and emotional health, improved by adopting a healthy lifestyle.
“When you think about wealth and health, think about how many diseases and illnesses which are related to diet and stress, which could be prevented, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, and heart disease. This is why women must start taking care of their well being,” said Thabethe.
Since the launch of the wellness day programme earlier this month, SAWEN has visited several provinces during the Women’s Month (August). This programme has allowed women to network; receive health education, visit healthcare, and wellness stalls operated by key stakeholders.
Ms Nana Ditodi, President of SAWEN, said that feeling well physically and having control over one’s own life can greatly increase mental health as well.
“Today is about creating an awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle, exercise and diet in order to maintain the quality and quantity of life,” she said.
The sports grounds were marred by sporting activities such as a 2.5km walk, soccer games, aerobics, dance and song.
Rebecca Moeletsi from Moruleng, who participated in the 2.5km walk, said she has been battling with obesity for as long as she could remember and now that she has started with this walk, she is never stopping. She commended the Department of Trade and Industry (the dti) and SAWEN for coming to Moruleng and actually showing the women that living healthy and exercising does not need money but only commitment and will.
Ms Ruth Masokoane, CEO of SAWEN urged women to take care of their bodies and be careful of obesity. She said obesity is a challenge and a common sign of unhealthy living.
“I commit to be 10kg or lighter when we come back to the North West province next year,” she added.
The aim of this turn-key programme is to empower people by giving the community back the tools it needs to make better lifestyle choices and live a better quality of life. Deputy Minister Thabethe and the leadership of SAWEN at the SAWEN Well day in Rustenburg
Enquiries:
Sidwell Medupe, Departmental Spokesperson
Cell: 079 492 1774
Tel: 012 394 1650
E-mail: MSMedupe@thedti.gov.za
Twitter: @the_dti
