TZANEEN – Deputy President Paul Mashatile's collapse at the Nwamitwa Day event in Tzaneen, Limpopo on Saturday has sparked concerns about his health and prompted a stark warning from former Health Professionals Council of South Africa president, Dr Kgosi Letlape.
Dr Kgosi, who has since joined ActionSA, urged the nation to take heed of Mashatile's experience, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing self-care amidst demanding schedules.
"LISTEN to your body, say no to schedules that are harmful to oneself," Dr Kgosi advised. "None of us are robots, let's not overload ourselves. We come first."
Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba, however, attributed the dehydration to the high temperatures experienced in Tzaneen on Saturday, with weather services reporting a scorching 37 degrees Celsius.
While acknowledging the demanding workloads faced by public figures, Dr Kgosi stressed that taking care of oneself is a personal responsibility. His advice was not only directed at the Deputy President but to the nation as a whole.
The incident has highlighted the importance of prioritizing health and wellbeing, even amidst the pressures of public life. Dr Kgosi's warning serves as a timely reminder that even the most powerful individuals are not immune to the consequences of neglecting their own health.
This incident follows a period of increasing public scrutiny around the health of South African leaders. In recent years, concerns have been raised about the age and health of President Cyril Ramaphosa, with some questioning his ability to effectively lead the country.
While Mashatile's collapse has raised concerns about his own health, it also serves as a broader reminder of the importance of self-care and the potential consequences of neglecting one's wellbeing. Dr Kgosi's warning is a call to action for all South Africans, urging them to prioritize their health and listen to their bodies.
