Free glucose testing by aQuellé brings diabetes awareness closer to South African communities

With diabetes claiming the lives of almost 79 South Africans every day, aQuellé is strengthening its commitment to raising awareness and encouraging early detection through its annual Together Let's Beat Diabetes campaign. In partnership with Diabetes South Africa, the initiative has seen over 150 free glucose testing stations set up across the country, already testing over 12 000 people this year.

"Diabetes affects families and communities across South Africa every day, and we need to create greater awareness that early detection is essential. We want to encourage as many South Africans as possible to take that first step by understanding their glucose levels and making informed decisions about their health,” comments Nico Bosman, aQuellé Director.

“To date, we have tested over 17 000 people, and we are calling on communities to join in the fight against diabetes. Every person tested is an opportunity to promote healthier choices and potentially change a life.”

The need for increased diabetes awareness

Building on the success of the previous 4 years, aQuellé and Diabetes South Africa continue taking free glucose testing directly into communities, making basic health screening more accessible while educating South Africans about the importance of understanding their blood glucose levels.

The need for greater awareness is significant. According to Statistics South Africa's latest Mortality and Causes of Death in South Africa, 2024 report, diabetes was the country's leading underlying natural cause of death, with 28 767 dying from the disease that year alone.

One of the challenges is that Type 2 diabetes can develop gradually, with some people experiencing few or no noticeable symptoms until complications arise. Left unmanaged, elevated blood glucose levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, vision loss and lower-limb amputations.

aQuellé supports diabetes prevention through healthy living

As a South African natural spring water brand, aQuellé is targeting a disease that’s directly impacting South Africans. aQuellé advocates for healthy hydration as part of a balanced lifestyle. Choosing water instead of sugar-sweetened beverages is a simple way to reduce added sugar intake, while helping manage blood sugar levels.

Getting active is another important part of reducing the risk of Type 2 diabetes and supporting overall wellbeing.  The brand is the official hydration partner to Durban’s beloved rugby team, the Sharks, Netball South Africa, and 15 of the 16 PSL football clubs - including Orlando Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns, and AmaZulu FC.

Eating healthily helps reduce one’s risk of getting Type 2 diabetes. Obesity is a major risk factor associated with diabetes.

In addition to the official sports partnerships, aQuellé is actively involved in community sporting events, including the aQuellé Midmar Mile and the ECR Big Walk. Through these activations and its growing portfolio of sports partnerships, aQuellé encourages South Africans to make active living part of their everyday routines.

Find a free glucose testing station near you

South Africans can take advantage of free glucose testing through the Together Let's Beat Diabetes campaign, with testing stations hosted at selected locations across the country. There are several testing stations planned for the rest of this year.

Note: A glucose screening indicates blood sugar levels at the time of testing. It is not, on its own, a formal diabetes diagnosis, and anyone with an abnormal reading should seek further assessment from a healthcare professional.

Date               Region       Store

2026/11/06     EC              Jumbo Finro C&C, Gqeberha

2026/11/07     EC              Afrisave, Nelson Mandela Bay

2026/11/13     EC              Tradevalue Powertrade

2026/11/14     EC              Spar Daku, Ibhayi

2026/12/04     EC              Jumbo Finro C&C, Gqeberha

2026/12/05     EC              Afrisave, Kariega

2026/12/15     EC              Tradevalue Powertrade

Date               Region       Store

2026/11/07     GP              Jumbo Crown Mines 

2026/11/20     GP              Shoprite MediRite Pretoria North 

2026/11/21     GP              Makro Wonderboom 

Date               Region       Store

2026/11/07     WC             Shoprite Middestad 

2026/11/14     WC             PNP Soneike, Kuils River

2026/11/21     WC             Shoprite Saxdowne Road 

2026/11/28     WC             Checkers Meadowridge 

Note: Activation schedule is subject to change. For more information and to find a testing station, visit www.aquelle.co.za. Follow aQuellé on social media:

Facebook: @aQuelle

Instagram: @aquelle_sa

LinkedIn: aQuellé

YouTube: Over 5,400 Lives Reached | aQuellé’s Initiative to Beat Diabetes Together

aQuellé's Together Let's Beat Diabetes FAQs

1.       Where can I get a free blood glucose test?

aQuellé, in partnership with Diabetes South Africa, will host free glucose testing stations at selected locations across the country during Diabetes Awareness Month and beyond.

2.       Why is it important to have your blood glucose levels tested?

Type 2 diabetes can develop without obvious symptoms, meaning people may be unaware that their glucose levels are elevated. Regular screening can help identify potential concerns early, allowing individuals to seek medical advice and take appropriate action to manage their health.

3.       What can I do to reduce my risk of developing Type 2 diabetes?

Healthy lifestyle choices can help reduce your risk. aQuellé encourages South Africans to drink water instead of sugar-sweetened beverages, eat a balanced diet rich in fibre, vegetables and fruit, maintain a healthy weight and participate in regular physical activity. Knowing your risk factors and having your glucose levels checked are also important steps.