​Koketso Maraba
 
In a continuous effort to reduce the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) together with the Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation and City of Johannesburg joined forces to help residents get active and take control of their health. 
This is part of the Move for Health campaign which saw patriots across Johannesburg taking part in a full day of wellness activities aimed at tackling the growing problem NCDs on Friday, 30 May 2025. 
The event offered something for everyone. Participants took part in 3 km and 5 km walks, high-energy aerobics, indigenous games, a children's play area, and light exercises for older adults. But the day wasn't only about getting active; healthcare workers were also on site, offering free medical checks to help residents better understand and manage their health.
Altogether, 350 TB screenings, 106 blood pressure checks, 66 diabetes tests, and 13 Pap smears were carried out. One male medical circumcision was performed, and 42 residents also had access to eye screening. To support safer sexual health, more than 4 800 condoms were distributed throughout the day.
One participant, 72-year-old Eliza Nkwindana said she was grateful that health services had been brought closer to the community. She also shared that the screenings revealed she had high blood pressure and that she received a referral letter to South Rand Hospital to begin treatment.
The importance of early screening and healthy living is especially urgent in Gauteng. Provincial data shows that diabetes now affects 11.3% of the population, while high blood pressure impacts 49% of men and 51% of women. These figures reflect the effects of urban lifestyles, often shaped by fast food, long hours sitting down, and limited physical activity.
MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, stressed the urgent need to adopt healthier habits by joining the #AsibeHealthy movement, which promotes simple steps towards better health.
"Today we are not just walking for fun. We are walking away from sickness, stress, and unhealthy living. We are walking towards better health, stronger bodies, and longer lives," she said. 
The MEC added that living healthier doesn't have to be expensive. "Just 30 minutes of walking a day can save your life. You don't need to pay for a gym. Your feet are enough," she said, encouraging families and communities to form walking groups, organise workplace fitness days, and make movement part of their daily routines.
Eighty-year-old Agnes Sello said the event reminded her of how powerful walking can be. 
"When I arrived this morning, I had a tight chest and a slight cold, but after the walk, I felt much better," she said. "I don't usually walk, but I enjoyed it. It has reignited my interest, and I'm now inspired to make walking a regular part of my routine at home," she said. 
This event shows that simple, everyday actions like walking can make a big difference in fighting lifestyle diseases and building a healthier Gauteng.