Eat well, Live Well
club which also keeps us physical fit since it is something we enjoy.
What is your most important message for the people who will read the interview?
For people reading this interview I would strongly encourage you to utilize the services of credible and recognized nutrition practitioners for validated information on nutrition. Apart from government facilities, there are currently private dietitians and nutritionists who are based in other private hospitals, medical centers, National Food Technology Research Centre and the University of Botswana. So really the resource persons are there.
This one goes out to employers to engage nutrition practitioners in their employee wellness programs. Employees spend more time in the workplace than at home. So if you are trying to change someone’s habits, it is better to use the workplace. Unfortunately most companies are also not willing to pay local professionals for services. I know I am being political but if is an expert based in another country they can pay an arm and a leg for the ‘consultant’ who has similar qualifications or even less. Currently in Botswana there quite a number of qualified Dietitians and Nutritionists with up to PhD level like myself. We do have a few male dietitians even though historically it is a female dominated career.
My last main wish is to produce market ready quality nutritionists and dietitians. We are ready as a country and more than capable to meet the demands of the profession. During my time, I had the privilege of studying abroad, however with the current covid-19 restrictions and financial implications, chances of training dietitians outside Botswana in the near future are very slim. I challenge the relevant stakeholders and regulating bodies to make this happen.
Any words of advice/ suggestions for someone considering entering your field?
For the students who decide to choose nutrition or dietetics as a career, studying a nutrition and dietetics degree is REALLY hard…I won’t sugar coat it. Nutrition and Dietetics is an incredibly hard, and science-based degree. You have to work hard to get through it as you can’t fake it. If you’re not good at science or maths, it may not be the right program for you. And it takes about 4-5 years to become a dietitian. Expect to be at university every day of the week. The final year/semester tends to included practicals in the hospital and it’s very intense (and physically and emotionally exhausting). If you are up for the challenge, then this is a very exciting and fulfilling career choice. I strongly encourages more males to choose it as a career.
Where can everyone keep up with you to learn more?
I can be found on my Facebook page ‘Dr. Lebo’, https://www.facebook.com/DrLebo-115244390279570
Gaborone Private Hospital (Doctors’ suites) Website: www.afiyanutrition.co.bw Email: afiya.eluya@gmail.com Landline: 3685627
Whatsapp line: 74516360