DSD STAFF CELEBRATE WELLNESS AND TEAM SPIRIT AT 2025 SPORTS DAY
By Tholakele Makena and Thandeka Stampu.
- The Department of Social Development’s annual sports day is a vital part of the employee health and wellness programme.
- Staff members gathered at Thaba Tshwane Sports Ground in the City of Tshwane to take part in a variety of sporting codes, friendly competitions, and team-building activities.
- Opening the fun-filled day, the Deputy Minister of Social Development, Ganief Hendricks, commended staff for their enthusiasm and commitment to maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
The Department of Social Development held its annual sports day at the Thaba Tshwane Sports Ground in Centurion, City of Tshwane, filled with fun, fitness, and teamwork.
The day, held on 7 November 2025, is an important part of the department’s employee health and wellness programme, which encourages employees to lead active, healthy lifestyles and to strengthen relationships beyond the work environment.
It featured a variety of sporting codes, friendly competitions, and team-building activities aimed at promoting unity and well-being among colleagues.
Opening the event, Deputy Minister of Social Development Ganief Hendricks commended staff for their enthusiasm and commitment to maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
“It gives me great pleasure to open the Department of Social Development’s 2025 sports day. Today, we celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship, teamwork, and our collective pursuit of excellence,” said Hendricks.
“I warmly welcome all our esteemed guests and dignitaries who have joined us. Your presence continues to inspire our officials and staff to perform at their best,” he added.
“Since joining the department last year, I have had the privilege of meeting many of you, and I remain deeply grateful for the warmth and dedication you have shown. You have truly demonstrated that ours is a caring department, committed to service, compassion, and excellence.”
The deputy minister highlighted the importance of the Employee Health and Wellness Framework (2019) of the Department of Public Service and Administration, which promotes a healthy and productive public service.
“The wellness management pillar encourages us to stay active and live healthier lives, values perfectly reflected in today’s event,” he said.
Hendricks emphasised that the sports day is more than a competition; it is a reminder of the department’s collective resilience, unity, and shared commitment to excellence in serving communities.
“To all participants, today is your day. Play with pride, respect your opponents, and enjoy every moment. Whether you win or lose, remember that your participation and effort make you all champions,” he concluded.
Throughout the day, staff participated in various activities such as aerobics, electric fence, traffic jam, build a replica, toxic waste, just one word, and nail balance, creating an atmosphere of excitement and camaraderie. Teams showcased not only their sporting skills but also their creativity and teamwork.
The department’s sports day continues to serve as a vital platform for strengthening employee morale, promoting wellness, and fostering social connection across different units.
By promoting physical and mental well-being, the department reaffirms its commitment to building a healthy, motivated, and productive workforce dedicated to improving the lives of South Africans.
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