Maintaining a positive attitude, adopting healthy lifestyles and serving others are the key components required for longevity. 

These were some of the remarks made by the Director of Health in the ||Kharas Region, Sandra Owoses, during a tree planting ceremony at the Keetmanshoop hospital.

The tree planting ceremony is part of the Legacy Programme of the African Union Sport Council Region 5 Youth Games, which aims to plant 2500 trees across the country. 

"People are possibly wondering, 'Why is this tree planting at the Ministry of Health? We are serving many young people here because of the challenges that they are facing.' Health is not only about physical health; it is about being healthy and being joyful. It is about your physical, your mental, and your physiological health, so we want to really encourage you all to be able to take care of your health."

Namibia will host the 2025 Youth Games in July, where eleven Southern African countries will compete in various sporting codes. 

The tree planting ceremony thus signifies shared responsibility to leave a lasting impact on communities during and after the world-class sporting event.

The tree planting ceremony took place at the hospital garden, which is currently being maintained by hospital staff.  

The junior mayor of the Keetmanshoop municipality, Dezi Conradie, emphasised the importance of sport in the ability to heal past wounds, build character, discipline, teamwork, and promote leadership. 

The Youth Games, which are now in their 11th edition, provide a platform for young athletes from across Southern Africa to showcase their talents, compete at high levels, and foster camaraderie among participants. 

The games are expected to take place in Windhoek and Swakopmund from the 4th of July to the 13th of July, 2025.