SA has one of the highest rates of childhood obesity in Africa
"The Health of the Nation Study indicates that 13% of children aged 6-14 are overweight or obese, one of the highest rates in Africa," said MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko.
Photo: Unsplash/yunmai
JOHANNESBURG - South Africa has one of the highest rates childhood obesity in Africa with 13% of children aged 6-14 being overweight or obese, according to the Health of the Nation Study.
This was revealed at a two-day summit hosted by the Gauteng Department of Health in collaboration with Novo Nordisk and the City of Johannesburg to mark the World Obesity Day.
The event was held under the theme "Changing Systems, Healthier Lives."
Coinciding with World Obesity Day on 4 March, the summit aims to explore evidence-based strategies to combat childhood obesity, improve patient care and foster collaboration among healthcare professionals, policymakers and community leaders.
On day one of the summit, Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko highlighted that South Africa has been selected as one of the six countries globally to participate in the Cities for Better Health Childhood Obesity Prevention Initiative (CBH COPI), a significant public-private partnership led by Novo Nordisk. This initiative aims to develop scalable, evidence-based interventions to prevent childhood obesity, particularly in disadvantaged communities.
"In Gauteng, we are already witnessing the impact of obesity-related conditions on our healthcare system. Recent statistics from the Gauteng Department of Health show a concerning rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly diabetes, hypertension, and strokes," she stated.
“Hospitals such as Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic, Charlotte Maxeke, and Steve Biko are experiencing increased admissions due to complications related to lifestyle diseases, many of which are linked to obesity,” she added.
In an effort to promote healthy lifestyles, the health department has launched community outreach campaigns like “Siza’kuwe” and “Corner-to-Corner,” which bring healthcare services directly to townships, informal settlements and hostels to ensure that communities have access to the necessary information.
As the MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu emphasized that her role goes beyond treating diseases; it also involves ensuring that people live healthier, longer, and more productive lives.
The summit brings together health professionals, policymakers, researchers, and key stakeholders to collaborate on sustainable solutions for childhood obesity.
“We must work together to develop policy recommendations, community-driven interventions, and awareness campaigns that can make a tangible impact,” she concluded.