Day: May 29, 2024

Fitness and Wellness Experts have emphasised the crucial role of physical exercise in promoting mental health and balanced lifestyle.

They gave the advice during a Fitness and Wellness Awareness session, hosted by the FitMyke Fitness Foundation, in collaboration with Evolve 360 Gym in Abuja.

A guest speaker and health expert, Aisha Bubah, in her presentation, emphasised practical strategies for integrating exercise into everyday routines.

Bubah said that even small changes, like daily stretching or short workouts, could lead to significant improvements in overall mental health of an individual.

She encouraged the participants to make exercise a regular part of their lives.

Earlier, the founder of FitMyke Fitness Foundation, Michael Uwejeyan, had emphasised the importance of such initiatives in promoting a balanced lifestyle.

Uwejeyan said the goal was to create events that encouraged physical fitness and to also highlight the integral role of exercise in maintaining overall mental health.

‘We are thril
led with the positive response and the level of engagement from our community.

‘It is clear there is a strong desire to learn about the benefits of exercise for overall well-being, and we are committed to continuing these efforts to support our community’s health.’

‘The foundation plans to offer follow-up sessions and additional resources to ensure ongoing support for its members and the broader community.

‘This event marks a significant step towards promoting a more integrated approach to mental health and overall wellness, reinforcing the message that exercise is a key component of a balanced lifestyle.

‘FitMyke Fitness Foundation has a longstanding history of organising health-related awareness programmes. Beyond this recent event, the Foundation has hosted awareness programmes for various health related issues, aiming to improve individual wellbeing,’ he said.

The event featured a variety of activities designed to engage participants and highlight the importance of regular exercise.

Expert trainers
led an invigorating workout session, demonstrating various techniques and routines that attendees could incorporate into their daily lives.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

All systems are in place to ensure that South Africans will have an opportunity to exercise their democratic right to vote on Wednesday, 29 May 2024.

The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said several measures have been put in place so that citizens can safely and securely cast their vote in the year that the country celebrates 30 years of freedom.

‘The right to vote was fought for during our country’s liberation struggle and came at an extremely high price as many of our countrymen and women sacrificed their lives for us to have this right,’ the statement read.

GCIS said voting is about the future and putting in place a government, which builds a better life for its people, a life materially better than in the years before democracy.

As a nation, government believes that every citizen should rightfully be proud of the democracy, which gives a voice to everyone.

The government agency also thanked all South Africans who cast their vote for their special votes.

Those who were approved
for special votes but did not have the opportunity to cast their ballot can still do so on the official Election Day.

The GCIS called on all South Africans, especially young and first-time voters, to exercise their democratic right to vote.

In the run-up to the elections, there has also been a massive civil education drive by the Department of Basic Education in partnership with the Electoral Commission (IEC).

This has resulted in almost all 539 000 young people aged 18 and 19 years old registered to vote.

In collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs, all eligible youth in school have been provided with their identity documents (IDs) to ensure they can participate in this national milestone.

Meanwhile, the same department extended its operational hours and will be opened until open until 9pm tonight to allow eligible voters to collect their smart ID cards or green ID books.

‘We thank all South Africans who have already taken up the opportunity at various Home Affairs branches across the country
to collect their IDs.’

Temporary identification certificates can also be obtained for R70 and will be issued immediately for use.

Voters can call the Home Affairs toll-free number 0800 60 11 90 for more information.

Government said it was grateful to all its stakeholders, including the media and civil society organisations, who have played a crucial role in actively advocating for a free and fair campaigning process.

The GCIS thanked traditional and Khoi-San leaders for the role they have played in ensuring voters exercise their democratic rights.

‘Since 1994, these leaders have been instrumental in our society and we call on them to continue to encourage all eligible voters to participate in the elections tomorrow.’

GCIS said the seventh democratic election was a turning point in the history of the country’s democracy due to the expansion of electoral participation, which broadened the pool of leadership choices for national and provincial elections.

‘We believe that this is a testament to the vibrant
and inclusive democracy the country has built over the past three decades.’

In addition to polling stations being opened throughout the country, voting will also take place in prisons. A total of 14 753 inmates at correctional facilities have registered to vote in the elections, and they will get a chance to cast their ballot.

Government said it was ready to combat and prevent any threats to the election such as intimidation, public violence, clashes, or community protests, and we remain convinced that citizens will be free to make their mark for democracy.

Law enforcement agencies have made the necessary plans to safeguard the election process. This includes securing voting stations through static deployments, along with escorting voter material and IEC staff.

Government strongly condemned the illegal demonstrations that sought to undermine the democratic process.

GCIS described the actions as unacceptable and assured citizens that necessary measures are in place to prevent such occurrences.

‘Citizens
with legitimate grievances are encouraged to constructively raise these within available channels.’

Meanwhile, the agency calls on communities to be vigilant and to avoid being manipulated by those bent on committing criminal acts under the guise of a legitimate protest.

South Africans were also encouraged to demonstrate tolerance by respecting each other’s right to vote and uphold the democratic principles that our country stands for.

The GCIS urged the public to conduct themselves peacefully and allow the IEC to do its work freely without any intimidation.

‘We call on all eligible voters to go out in their numbers and vote to strengthen our democracy and determine their future.’

GCIS described elections as a collective voice that has immense power to build the South Africa we all want.

‘As South Africa proudly celebrates 30 years of freedom and democracy, let us celebrate our democracy by exercising our right to vote and ensuring a better future for all.’

Acting GCIS Director-General, Nomonde Mnukwa
said: ‘Voting is one of the most visible means to be an active citizen and to make your voice heard, let us therefore come out in our numbers and renew our democracy’.

Source: South African Government News Agency

With voting in the seventh democratic elections underway across the country, President Cyril Ramaphosa has cast his vote in Chiawelo, Soweto, the township where he grew up.

‘I went into the voting station, greeted various party agents, and proceeded to cast my vote. This is a great day for democracy in South Africa. This is the day when South Africa decides on the future of our country…who should lead the government of South Africa,’ the President said on Wednesday.

Voting in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections started at 7am and is expected to close at 9pm.

The Electoral Commission (IEC) assured citizens that no eligible voter will be turned away and that every voter in a queue by 9pm will be assisted.

‘It is wonderful to meet so many people who are here to vote for the stabilisation and the extension of our democracy. I heard that voting is going well throughout the country. We are heartened that we have so many observers. I have been told there are 190 observers and I am sure the IEC will run a
good election,’ the President said.

He expressed concern about incidents of people interfering with the work of the IEC.

‘We are concerned about the incidents that have been reported, incidents where the IEC has raised its concern. There was one incident where the police had to intervene by arresting those who were interfering in the work of the IEC.

‘The work of the IEC is sacrosanct; it should never be interfered with because when you interfere with the work of the IEC, you are interfering with our democracy. You are trying to subvert the will of the people. The people of South Africa should never be obstructed and interfered with in anyway what so ever,’ President Ramaphosa said.

The President appealed to South Africans to abide by the prescripts of the electoral law and the Constitution during the election period.

South Africa’s constitution grants all citizens aged 18 and older the right to vote.

‘I have full confidence in our security officers throughout the country that they are going to execute
their work and will make sure that those who seek to embark on ways that will disrupt our elections will be dealt with,’ he said.

The IEC has reiterated that voters must vote where they are registered.

‘The general rule in elections is that a person votes at a voting station where they have registered. The only exception to the general rule is that a voter may vote outside of their registered voting district only after notifying the CEO. Notifications in this regard closed on May 17. Approximately 360 000 voters have been approved to vote outside their voting districts,’ the Commission said.

The commission also wishes to remind all eligible voters of the following:

To bring along valid South African identity document.

That each voter will be verified on the voters roll and marked with ink on the left thumb.

Each voter will receive three ballot papers: the national, regional, and provincial ballot papers. Voters are reminded to indicate their choices with one mark on each ballot (voters who have given pr
e-notification to vote at a voting stations outside the province in which they are registered will receive only the national ballot).

That each ballot paper will be validated with a stamp on the reverse.

That all three ballots must be deposited in the ballot box at the voting station.

It is prohibited for a voter to take a photograph of their marked ballot paper. This arrangement is necessary to protect the secrecy of the choice of voters and to avoid voters being coerced or unduly induced into making political choices.

Source: South African Government News Agency

There was excitement in the air as Pretoria residents cast their votes at the Pheasant Hill Boutique Hotel at Doornkloof East, Pretoria, this morning.

Clad in a warm jersey and a coffee in one hand, Zelda Meyer from Irene, joined millions of voters who are making their mark today.

Meyer believes that voting is important regardless of who you are voting for. She told SAnews she was of the view that South Africa needs to grow the economy to create much-needed jobs, especially for the youth.

‘Whichever party will be in power, they need to make a change and grow the economy.’

The 60-year-old said she would also like to see a better working public health sector as the cost of living is skyrocketing and salaries shrink.

The Irene resident encouraged those who are still undecided about going to the voting station to do so, for their country.

‘If you recycle one beer can, even that makes a difference. You might think it’s just one beer can, but it adds to the manufacturing process…’

She expressed her gratitu
de to the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) staffers and party agents for running the voting station well.

‘It’s efficient, it’s quick. We had a small hiccup with the network but that was sorted out within 10 minutes.’

Another resident, Sam Masha, from Pretoria East, said he was looking forward to exercising his democratic right to vote for his party of choice.

‘We’re so privileged that we’re able to vote because so much blood was spilled for us to be here today. I would never just sit at home, complain, and not come to vote. This is my right,’ he added.

Despite the challenges in the country, Masha was optimistic about the future.

‘I’m happy about some of the progress, especially when it comes to corruption. Even though the wheels of justice are turning slow, there is progress that I see.’

The 49-year-old said he would like to see a future with a functioning Eskom and for the load shedding to end indefinitely.

Eighteen-year-old Nsizwa Ngcobo from Soweto said he found it difficult to decide whi
ch party to vote for as a first-time voter.

His biggest dream for whichever leader wins the elections is that they will do the right thing and think about the youth’s future.

‘Every party has its pros and cons and I really hope my vote will count,’ he said.

Source: South African Government News Agency

Government has commended the inspiring smooth start to the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.

This as thousands of South Africans have already cast their votes in the elections, affirming the strength and vibrancy of our democracy.

Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Acting Director-General (DG), Nomonde Mnukwa noted a conspicuous and palpable sense of jubilation at voting stations across the country as citizens exercise their constitutional right in the seminal seventh national election.

‘The dignity and patience with which voters are conducting themselves is a sign of our maturing democracy and we are confident that these elections will build on our history of free and fair elections’ Mnukwa said.

READ | Smooth and steady start to 2024 elections

As the country celebrates 30 Years of Freedom, Mnukwa reiterated government’s call on all 27.7 million registered voters to heed the clarion call to vote so that democracy can be strengthened.

‘This right to vote was never given for fre
e and should never be taken for granted. Many women and men died and suffered for this right and the best way we can honour them is to show up and vote,’ Mnukwa said.

She said the impressive early indication of a significant youth cohort turnout and their enthusiasm demonstrated on social media platforms, is a clear demonstration of a nation invested in a future which is underpinned by a collective sense of the civic responsibility and active participation that comes with democracy.

‘Your vote is your power and allows you to choose who will represent the interests of your community. We should never forget that elections are our collective voice, and your vote has immense power to inspire a path that will lead to the growth of our country. This Election Day let your voice be heard and let your ‘X’ speak for you,’ the Acting DG said.

Mnukwa reminded registered voters that voting stations and Home Affairs offices will remain open until 9pm and encouraged voters who have applied for IDs, or want to apply for T
emporary Identification Certificates, to visit their local Home Affairs office to collect their documents, in order to cast their vote.

Mnukwa also urged South Africans to keep making their way to voting stations throughout the day to avoid bottlenecks near closing time.

‘Elderly, pregnant, and sick voters are encouraged to approach electoral officers at their voting stations so that they can be ushered to the front of the queue. To avoid medical emergencies, voters joining queues are advised to take precautions such as drinking water to remain hydrated and should take their prescription medicines.

‘Voters are advised to take extra precautionary measures to protect themselves as the country is currently experiencing the annual influenza (flu) season. Preventative measures such as wearing of masks, hand washing with an alcohol-based sanitiser or practising social distancing are recommended,’ Mnukwa said.

Respecting the right to vote

She further reminded employers, especially in the services and retail sec
tor to allow their employees to exercise their democratic right to cast their votes today.

‘Government is committed to ensuring a peaceful, free and fair election. Government, through the NATJOINTS [National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure], will act swiftly and decisively against those who would seek to disrupt elections.

‘We call on everyone to respect the right to vote and warn those who aim to disrupt elections or intimidate voters, that they will face the full might of the law,’ Mnukwa said.

Voters who are registered to vote can send an SMS with their ID number to 32810 or WhatsApp to 0600 88 0000 to determine if they are on the IEC voter’s roll and locate the name of the voting station where they will cast their ballots.

Source: South African Government News Agency

Voting in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections got off to a steady start with 93% of voting stations reported to have opened at 7am on Wednesday.

The Electoral Commission’s Deputy Chief Electoral Officer, Masego Sheburi said all IEC trained staff members reported for duty and started welcoming the first of the 26 million eligible voters at 7am at the 23 292 voting stations across the country.

‘In most stations, queues had formed even before the stations opened. This is testament to the enthusiasm of South Africans to record their political choices,’ Sheburi said at a media briefing held at the National Results Operational Centre (ROC) in Midrand.

Sheburi also noted that there was a delay in the opening some voting stations. This was mostly in Johannesburg due to the late delivery of materials, delayed escorts by security services, or protests by certain community members.

Five voting stations in the Eastern Cape also did not open on time due to community protests.

However, at midday, election opera
tions around the country reported good progress with minimal incidents reported.

The Commission assured voters that adequate supplies of all materials, including more than 90 million ballot papers, are available, and every voter will be assisted to vote.

The Commission also urged voters in the queues to be patient, as traditionally, voting queues peak early as voters often seek to vote first thing in the day.

‘Where there were difficulties with our voter management device, instructions were issued for voting to proceed on the manual voters’ roll. We also remind voters of the cardinal rule in the NPE2024 [National and Provincial Elections 2024], to vote where you are registered.

‘Also, once in the voting station and presented with ballot papers, remember to make one mark on one ballot.’

Sheburi also reported that voting kicked off in the morning at correctional facilities across the country to allow inmates to cast their votes.

Indelible ink

Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission has advised those who have
voted not to go on extra effort to remove the indelible ink mark on their thumbs.

‘The indelible ink is one of several security checks and safeguards built into the election process, but the Commission wishes to remind all voters that any attempt to undermine the integrity of the election process, including attempting to remove the ink mark, constitutes electoral fraud and is punishable by up to 10 years in jail,’ the Commission said.

Make your voice heard

The Electoral Commission has thanked voters who have already responded to the call to vote, and appealed to all remaining voters to make their way to a voting station before they close at 9pm tonight.

President Cyril Ramaphosa is among those who have already cast their vote.

The President cast his vote in Chiawelo, Soweto.

‘I went into the voting station, greeted various party agents, and proceeded to cast my vote. This is a great day for democracy in South Africa. This is the day when South Africa decides on the future of our country…who should lead
the government of South Africa,’ the President said on Wednesday.

READ | President casts his vote

The commission also reminded all eligible voters of the following:

To bring along valid South African identity document.

That each voter will be verified on the voters roll and marked with ink on the left thumb.

Each voter will receive three ballot papers: the national, regional, and provincial ballot papers. Voters are reminded to indicate their choices with one mark on each ballot (voters who have given pre-notification to vote at a voting stations outside the province in which they are registered will receive only the national ballot).

That each ballot paper will be validated with a stamp on the reverse.

That all three ballots must be deposited in the ballot box at the voting station.

It is prohibited for a voter to take a photograph of their marked ballot paper. This arrangement is necessary to protect the secrecy of the choice of voters and to avoid voters being coerced or unduly induced into making
political choices.

Voting continues.

Source: South African Government News Agency