KAMPALA – On July 8, 2018, the Ministry of Health in a bid to fight non-communicable diseases like hypertension, diabetes, among others launched the first-ever National Physical Activity Day that took place at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds.
“We want to remind Ugandans of the importance of exercises, most Ugandans live sedentary lifestyles. From home to work, in the comfort of a car, with no exercise at all, eating unhealthy food, etc and this is how many of them fall prey of these non-communicable diseases,” said Health Minister, Dr Jane Ruth Acheng.
Just like last year, 2019’s event under the theme “My health, my responsibility” will be officiated by President Yoweri Museveni on Sunday, July 14 at Kololo Independence Grounds starting at 6:00 AM.
“The day will be flagged off by H.E. President of Uganda, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni,” announced the ministry.
According to Ministry of Health, 40% of deaths in Uganda are due to non-communicable diseases, 13% motor accidents, 9% cardiovascular diseases, 5% cancers and the remaining percentage is for other cases.
Dr. Acheng also revealed that according to a survey carried out in 2014-2015, it was found out that 1 out of 4 people were hypertensive and aware of it.
She advised that persons from the age of 17-54 should exercise at least 5hours a day, 2-2:30 in the morning and evening with activities like brisk walking, or going to the gym and those below 17 years, at least 30mins of exercise every day.
The National Physical Activity Day is expected to be celebrated annually on the second Sunday of July.
