​On Wednesday, 09 August 2023, Gauteng Social Development female officials supported by their male counterparts celebrated National Women’s Day by participating in the iconic Total Sports Women’s Race that took place at Marks Park Sports grounds in Emmarentia, Johannesburg.
Women of all ages came in large numbers to participate in 5KM and 10KM races. The sports field was painted pink with each participant wearing a pink branded T-shirt to create awareness on cancer.

The race started 15 years ago to highlight the prevalence of breast cancer and to educate women about the disease.

On the day women were offered free health care services such as pap smear.

42-year-old Annah Ramokgola from head office who completed her 10KM race in an hour said she started participating in races this year and she never looked back.

“It was going to be nice if everyone from the department came and participated unfortunately the race comes with costs and not everyone is going to afford. I have registered for the Two Oceans Marathon, and I’m confident that I am going to make it”, says Ramokgola.

Ramokgola said this race is part of the department’s wellness program and the officials are encouraged to participate.

An official and Marathon runner Nono Yende said she slept very late, but she could not miss the race.

“I was tired, because of the love I have for this sport I managed to complete my 10KM race and from here I am going to work,” says Yende.