16 Sep 2019

Preparations for the Independence Day celebrations are ongoing with the intent to hype the mood in various communities.

As such, the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Development in Ghanzi on Setember 13 hosted a fitness fun marathon as part of the efforts to hype such a mood as well as promote healthy living among communities.

After the marathon, which coincided with the Month of Prayer Against HIV/AIDS launch, Ghanzi Brigade learner, who is also a change agent, Mr Keabetswe Lesonya cautioned the youth against unbecoming behaviour, saying the independence jovial mood should not spoil their moral character because that may in turn jeopardise their future.

“As you celebrate this year’s independence, you should keep in mind that HIV is real and can affect anyone,” he said.

Mr Lesonya observed that inter-generational sex and transactional sex, coupled with abuse of alcohol and drugs can also make them fall prey of HIV.

Also, he indicated that alcohol and drug abuse exacerbated road accidents, fights as well as criminal activities.

On the other hand, he challenged churches to continue to promote good behaviour and healthy lifestyle through wellness activities and educational seminars, particularly among the youth.

A counsellor from Ghanzi Brigade, Ms Tumisang Mogwase reminded participants not to neglect their emotional well-being to avoid lifestyle diseases.

Ms Mogwase also challenged the youth to play an active role in their societies by assuming the ‘change agent’ role, particularly to help their peers as they shared the same challenges and perspectives.

The ministry’s principal programmes officer in Ghanzi, Ms Kelatlhegile Mbotho stated that engaging in physical activities helped to keep lifestyle diseases at bay as well as uniting the community. ENDS