MPUMALANGA– In the wake of the global observance of World Health Day on April 7,the Mpumalanga MEC for Health, Sasekani Manzini, has emphasized the importance of maintaining good health practices among the residents of Mpumalanga.
World Health Day serves as a significant annual event aimed at raising awareness about health issues worldwide and is endorsed by prominent organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO).
The origins of this observance date back to 1948 when the First World Health Assembly, convened by WHO, designated April 7 as World Health Day starting from 1950.
The celebration of World Health Day not only serves as a reminder of the critical role health plays in our lives but also underscores the need for continuous efforts to promote well-being and disease prevention within communities.
In light of this, MEC Sasekani Manzini’s call to action resonates strongly with the overarching theme of this year’s World Health Day – “Building a fairer, healthier world for everyone.”
“Empower yourself, your health, and your right. Take charge of your well-being, this is world health day.”
“Access to good health is a fundamental human right. Regardless of our identities or geographical locations each of us deserve the opportunity to enjoy life if wellness.” she added.
World Health Day is one of 11 official global health campaigns marked by WHO, along with World Tuberculosis Day, World Immunization Week, World Malaria Day, World No Tobacco Day, World AIDS Day, World Blood Donor Day, World Chagas Disease Day, World Patient Safety Day, World Antimicrobial Awareness Week and World Hepatitis Day.
Speaking with the Highveld Chronicle, a nurse at a local clinic in Witbank said, “Taking good care of your health is very important, but many people are scared to get tested for diseases like HIV, TB, Cancer, and Diabetes. These chronic diseases are curable if treated early. “
They can be prevented early. People must not be afraid of visiting their nearest clinics as it is for free.” she added.
