Rustenburg, October 2024 – In a shared commitment to uplift and improve the wellbeing of local communities, Cancervive, the Royal Bafokeng Nation (RBN), Impala Rustenburg and the Rustenburg Department of Health recently collaborated to bring cancer awareness to local communities. This impactful partnership conducted a roadshow and awareness drive, which reached nine locations and delivered vital education and life-saving information about cancer to more than 6 000 people.
Cancervive plays a critical role in cancer education and awareness across South Africa. RBN joined forces with the non-profit organisation to extend these efforts into underserved local communities. With additional support from Impala Rustenburg and the Rustenburg Department of Health, the initiative gained momentum in the region, ensuring a broader reach and deeper impact.
A highlight of the collaboration was the launch of Cancervive’s THUTO Cancer Chat Bot, a groundbreaking multilingual WhatsApp tool. The THUTO Chat Bot is designed to provide accessible cancer-related information and support, empower communities, promote early detection and dispel common misconceptions about cancer.
Moses Motlhageng, Chief Executive of Impala’s Western Limb operations, emphasised the importance of this initiative saying, “Cancer remains a silent threat in many of our communities. By supporting Cancervive and the Royal Bafokeng Nation, we are taking meaningful steps to ensure that our mine communities are informed and equipped with the knowledge they need more effectively manage their health and wellbeing.”
The six-day roadshow, known as EduShows, captivated audiences through drum, storytelling, and dance performances, with personal survivor stories emphasising the importance of early detection and prevention. This engaging approach aimed to break down the stigma surrounding cancer and inspire proactive health measures.
“For 13 years, Cancervive has been on a mission to save lives through awareness and education,” said Marlene Nortje, CEO of Cancervive. “This year, we continue our commitment to equip individuals with the tools they need to recognise and respond to cancer. Our goal is not just to inform but to inspire action in everyone we reach.”
The roadshows were hosted at various community locations aimed at reaching some of the most remote and underserved communities to share valuable insights into cancer prevention and care. Several Impala shafts were also included on the roadshow schedule.
Commenting on the significance of the Cancervive community campaign, Dr Malebo Maponyane, Senior Manager for HSDS at the Royal Bafokeng Administration said, “This partnership aligns with our RBN Plan 35 — to build resilient, healthy communities. It brings essential health education to our people, addressing a disease that is often misunderstood. With Cancervive’s EduShows and the THUTO Chat Bot, our communities are empowered to take control of their health.”
Impala remains committed to fostering improved health and wellbeing within the communities it serves. Support for this initiative is another significant milestone in the company’s social responsibility efforts.
For more information about Cancervive and the THUTO Cancer Chat Bot, please visit www.cancervive.co.za.