The event was attended by attended by both the Deputy President of the Republic, Cyril Ramaphosa and the Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi who delivered the key note address.
The Soul City CEO Lebo Ramafoko in her welcoming remarks noted that Soul City, together with all the partners, look at this channel as an option that both young and old would want to adopt.
Dr Motsoaledi always his energetic and straightforward self noted the following:
- "It was generally believed that we died from communicable diseases like TB, but now it's more non-communicable diseases"
- Sugar and salt intake are too high: "South Africans eat two & a half more salt than their bodies need"
- "We want you to exercise, watch what you eat, don't drink and smoke" Dr Motsoaledi #LIVEIT
On smoking he was quite adamant:
- "there's no reason to smoke… we will put more restrictions on cigarettes and will make sure there are no space for smoking"
- "All cigarettes in this country will have ugly branding which will be implemented very soon - Be warned smokers…"
- On Alcohol he had this to say: "no such thing of responsible alcohol intake. No way to allow children to see all these adverts…"
He went on to say that he is advocating for the establishment of a National Health Commission chaired by the Deputy President where all of the above issues will be addressed and for solutions to be found.
The Minister concluded by encourage everyone to pledge the good life. #LiveIt!
The Good Life Network is a health and development pop-up channel which will air on DStv channel 199 from 1 December 2015 to 31 March 2016. The channel is focused on producing and broadcasting content that contribute towards positive individual and societal health outcomes. Viewers can look forward to shows that cover nutrition, health and fitness, human rights, youth sexuality, HIV and TB, as well as consumer and gender rights. For more information visit the website: http://thegoodlifenetwork.co.za/
