GIS – 07 March 2023: The Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and Health Promotion Programme targeting around 2, 600 employees of the Sunlife Group, was launched, this morning, in the presence of the Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Kailesh Kumar Singh Jagutpal, the Chief Financial Officer of Sunlife Group, Mr Tommy Wong, and other personalities, at the Long Beach Resort in Belle Mare.

The event is being organised in the context of International Women’s Day 2023, celebrated annually on 08 March. The two-week event will offer free screening for NCDs as well as breast cancer, and raise awareness on preventive measures and related medical treatments.

In his address, Minister Jagutpal underlined that it is important to recognise and valorise all the efforts made by women in the tourism and hospitality sector. Government, he stated, is aware of the pivotal role of women in the society and their significant contribution in the socio-economic development of the country.

He indicated that post COVID-19, the tourism industry has restarted its activities in full swing adding that women have had an important role in re-boosting the sector and supporting the country’s progress.

Furthermore, the Minister dwelt on the impact of obesity, alcohol, and cigarette on the health of the people. Over time, he observed, there has been a positive change in people’s lifestyle and health. “It is crucial that more and more people become conscious of the importance of staying in good health, maintaining a balanced diet and practicing physical activities”, he added.

For his part, the Chief Financial Officer of Sunlife Group, Mr Tommy Wong, pointed out that Sunlife Group is doing its best to defy stereotypes and discrimination towards women especially at work and highlighted that around 30% of their staff are women. The Group, he said, is working on policies to support women employees and to provide them with a conducive environment to prosper and stay in good health.

He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Health and Wellness for their partnership in organising the health promotion campaign aimed at sensitising the population on the risks associated to NCDs, the importance of early diagnosis, and timely treatment.