The donation also marks World Cancer Day on Wednesday, 4 February and the first anniversary of the clinic, which has enhanced breast cancer detection, treatment and research in Gauteng and beyond, while significantly improving access to specialised care, says KFC Africa.

Saturday's sellout match at DP World Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg turned the iconic venue into a sea of pink as thousands of fans rallied behind breast cancer awareness and early detection, says the entity.

With 60% of its workforce being female, KFC's donation to the breast health clinic at Charlotte Maxeke demonstrates its commitment to empowering women, supporting their health, and enabling them to move forward and take their place at the table, adds the entity.

"People are at the heart of everything we do at KFC Africa, and health is deeply personal to us," says Akhona Qengqe, General Manager of KFC Africa. 

"Breast cancer is the most common cancer among South African women, and one in 27 women will experience it at some point. This contribution on Pink Day is one way we show up for our staff by helping to create spaces where everyone does not just belong but is genuinely seen, heard and supported."

Qengqe says KFC's participation in Pink Day stems from the brand’s partnership with Cricket South Africa through KFC Mini-Cricket and its recent sponsorships of the Proteas Men's and Proteas Women's teams.

"As a committed partner to Cricket South Africa, supporting Pink Day was a natural extension of our shared values, and we are delighted to host the event for the first time at the Third KFC T20 International," she says. 

"It is an honour to be able to support Cricket South Africa's purpose-led initiative and the vital work of the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital Breast Care Unit."

Pink Day began in 2011 during a Test match between the Proteas and Australia at the Wanderers, and fifteen years later remains one of the most meaningful days in South African cricket, having grown into the country’s most iconic sporting movement for breast cancer awareness, uniting fans, families, survivors, players and corporates in a shared purpose to honour the unbreakable human spirit.

CSA Chief Executive Officer, Pholetsi Moseki, says, "Pink Day has become one of the most powerful moments in South African cricket; a day when sport transcends boundaries and brings people together around a cause that touches so many lives."

"KFC's involvement underscores how brands that are serious about the public's well-being can help amplify impact. We are grateful for their support of the Charlotte Maxeke Breast Care Unit and for their continued investment in cricket at all levels."

The Breast Care Unit treats thousands of patients every year, providing access to quality breast care regardless of location or income.

Since its launch, Pink Day has raised significant funds for breast cancer awareness and treatment, while driving crucial conversations around early detection, concludes KFC Africa.

For more information, visit www.kfc.co.za. You can also follow KFC Africa on Facebook, X, Instagram, or on TikTok. 

*Image courtesy of Facebook