To commemorate International Diabetes Day today, the City of Cape Town announced the launch of Partnership for Health Cities, a public awareness campaign to reduce non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the city.
Zara Nicholson, spokesperson for executive mayor Patricia de Lille, said the initiative was aimed at addressing diabetes and reducing obesity by encouraging proper nutrition and healthy lifestyles in Cape Town.
Earlier this year, the city announced that Cape Town had joined the Partnership for Healthy Cities. Today, the launch of the initiative is its first fruits.
Nicholson said: “Cape Town’s initiative has been developed due to our participation in the Partnership for Healthy Cities, a global network of cities committed to reducing NCDs and injuries led by World Health Organisation Global Ambassador for NCDs and former New York City mayor Michael R Bloomberg.
"Vital Strategies, an implementing partner, will provide technical support for the development and implementation of Cape Town’s public awareness campaign.
“Adopting a strong leadership position on the issue, the City will move towards reducing the accessibility of sugary drinks within all City of Cape Town-controlled buildings,” she said
The initiative includes investments in 47 outdoor gyms and Zumba dance classes, with the goal of promoting overall fitness levels and physical health.
“Some 83% of South Africans believe it is important for the government to address the country’s obesity problem," said Nicholson.