Reports show that 1 in 5 people will suffer from cancer in their lifetime. 1 in 6 deaths is due to cancer, with 70% of these deaths taking place in low income regions. The medical journal Lancet predicted that South Africa could see an increase of 78% in the number of cancer cases by 2030. It is because of such stats that the Thato Molamu Foundation has a long and personal commitment to bridging the geographic and economic disparities associated with a lack of access to adequate cancer screening and treatment for under resourced South African citizens.
Thato Molamu who is well known for his character as Nicholas on Generations initiated a cancer awareness programme through his foundation. The programme is set to tackle the needs of many South Africans who face the harsh reality of being affected by the disease and cannot find dignified care and treatment. âWe aim to create a competitive golf challenge with Doctors and celebrities through an annual 3-part activation with the main golf challenge in October, with a total of 4 challenges annually,â explained Molamu. The drive behind this challenge is to have a real and measurable impact on the lives of under-resourced South Africans living with cancer but lack access to quality cancer treatment.
The ultimate goal is to raise enough funds to build South Africaâs first specialized hospital dedicated to cancer research and development, screening and treatment by 2025. Medical Doctors and media personalities like Mapaseka Koetle, Florence Segal and Thuli Phongolo have vouched to support the initiative and were seen championing at the forefront of the initiative. Ms Bathabile Dlamini, Leader of the ANC Womenâs League also attended the event. She articulated a firm interest and commitment on creating a conducive environment for young people to be the forerunners of social impact.
The Pink Golf Challenge will take place on every Motherâs Day, Fatherâs Day and Heritage Day, with the main and final golfing challenge during Breast Cancer Month. The public will be invited to all the golfing events where they will spend the day with family and the campaigns Pink Golf Challenge ambassadors.
