As South Africa commemorates 30 years of freedom and democracy this Women’s Month, it is an important time to reflect on the strides made in empowering women and advancing their rights. In line with this, Bakwena N1N4 Toll Road has reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality by partnering with PinkDrive and the North West Departments of Health and Education to bring vital cancer screening, awareness, and education to communities in the North West province.
Now in its eleventh year, this partnership reflects Bakwena’s ongoing dedication to improving the lives of people living along the N1N4 route. This year’s campaign focused on the communities of Radikhudu, Dinokana, and Lehurutshe, and was rolled out in two key phases.
Two Phases of Outreach
The first phase involved visits to local secondary schools, where both male and female learners were educated on breast, prostate, and testicular cancer. Emphasizing the importance of early detection through self-examination, this initiative aimed to instill proactive health habits in young people.
The second phase expanded the campaign’s reach by partnering with local health clinics to provide these crucial services to the surrounding communities. To ensure accessibility, Bakwena also provided transportation for community members needing to visit the clinics.
The outreach took place from 12 to 16 August 2024, covering multiple clinics, including Gopane Clinic, Dinokana Community Health Centre, and Lehurutshe Clinic. Seven secondary schools participated in the campaign: Ntlatsang, Jangjo, Ramatu, Ramotshere, Ntebogang, NR Mandela, and Ngotwane secondary schools.
Impact of the Campaign
The campaign successfully reached 2,292 males and 2,500 females, with 76 prostate-specific antigen tests conducted. Nine individuals were referred for follow-up care, highlighting the critical role of early detection and timely medical intervention.
Founded in 2009 by Noelene Kotschan, PinkDrive NPC is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting early detection of breast, cervical, prostate, and testicular cancers. PinkDrive’s mission is to prevent as many lives as possible from being lost to these cancers, particularly among individuals with limited access to healthcare in underserved areas.
By raising health awareness and providing education, PinkDrive seeks to improve understanding and prevention of gender-related cancers across South Africa.
Bakwena’s Commitment to Uplifting Communities
Bakwena’s corporate social investment (CSI) policy is centered around four pillars: road safety, health, environment & heritage, and socio-economic development. Their various programmes have made a meaningful difference in the lives of many people living in the communities along their routes. By building strong relationships and partnerships with key stakeholders and government departments, Bakwena contributes to improving health and education systems in these areas.
Solomon Kganyago, Chief Operating Officer of Bakwena N1N4 Toll Road Concession, expressed pride in supporting initiatives that empower women, children, and men by equipping them with the necessary information and resources to effectively manage their health.
This Women’s Month initiative stands as a testament to Bakwena’s ongoing commitment to making a positive impact on the communities they serve.
