US First Lady Promotes Healthy Living in South Africa

Posted June 23rd, 2011 at 3:05 pm (UTC-5)
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U.S. first lady Michelle Obama teamed up with Nobel Peace Prize laureate Desmond Tutu to promote healthy living during the latest stop on her African tour.

The first lady met with the archbishop emeritus at Cape Town Stadium Thursday, before taking to the pitch and kicking a football (soccer ball) around with some children.

Obama told the children they needed to make smart choices and take care of their health if they want to be productive individuals.

Archbishop Tutu told the children Obama's presence was proof the possibilities for their futures are endless.

Last year, Obama helped launch a program in the United States called “Let's Move,” to help fight the growing problem of childhood obesity.

The stop in Cape Town was part of the U.S. first lady's weeklong trip to Africa, accompanied by her two daughters, Malia and Sasha, and other relatives.

Obama was also scheduled to go to Robben Island prison, where former South African President Nelson Mandela was jailed for 18 years, but the visit was cancelled due to high winds. The first lady met with Mr. Mandela at his home in Johannesburg Tuesday.

The first lady and her family leave South Africa Friday for neighboring Botswana, where they will go on safari Saturday.

Obama has been using the trip to promote youth leadership, education, health and wellness.