JULIUS MUHUMUZA

The Ministry of Health has called upon the general public to embrace physical activities to prevent the rise of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). State Minister made the call for Health in charge of Primary Health Care, Hon. Margaret Muhanga, while addressing the Press at Ministry of Health Headquarters ahead of National Physical Activity Day, to be commemorated on June 16th, 2024, Sunday.

While addressing the press at Health Ministry Headquarters in Kampala ahead of National Physical Activity Day, Health Minister in Charge of Primary Health Care, Hon. Margaret Muhanga, noted that the burden of Non-Communicable Diseases is increasing, such as Diabetes, Cancer, Hypertension, Asthma, and Mental illness among others.

Minister Muhanga mentioned some of the root causes of such NCDs including Tobacco smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and lack of physical exercise among others.

She added that the ministry has put in much effort in fighting NCDs with National Physical Activity guidelines that will be launched very soon, urging the public to always embrace physical Activities to avoid getting NCDs.

Gerald Mutungi, Assistant Commissioner Programs Manager for Non-Communicable Diseases under the Ministry of Health, says that National Physical Activity guidelines will guide the public on which type of activity one can do depending on his gender.

Ugandan Kickboxer Moses Golola explains the importance of physical activities, especially fitness. He urged the government to gazette a National Day for Physical Exercise at least once a month, advocating for walking from home to work.

National Physical Activity Day 2024 will be commemorated on June 16th at Makerere University Business School sports ground under the theme “Exercise is Medicine”, and President Museveni is expected to be the chief guest with many physical activities calling upon Ugandans to participate