Sports Key to Tackling Non-Communicable Diseases, Kabale Leaders Urge Communities

Members of Parliament from Kabale District in southwestern Uganda have voiced concern over the low levels of physical activity among residents, which they say is contributing to the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the region.

Dr Nicholas Kamara, the MP for Kabale Municipality and Chairperson of the Parliamentary Forum on Non-Communicable Diseases, emphasized that regular physical exercise is one of the most effective ways to prevent NCDs.

“Engaging in physical activity is a proven method for preventing NCDs. However, for those aged 50 and above, lifestyle changes like exercising and eating healthily may not be enough if the risk of disease is already elevated. I urge people in this age group to go for regular medical checkups,” Dr. Kamara said.

He made the remarks on Tuesday during the Kabale Christ the King Annual Uganda Martyrs Day Inter-Lay Apostolate Movements Tournament, held at Kabale Municipal Stadium. Dr Kamara used the occasion to highlight the wide-ranging health benefits of sports.

“Sports improve cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and flexibility, while significantly reducing the risk of obesity and chronic illnesses. They also help regulate blood pressure, build strong bones, and support vascular health,” he said.

Dr Kamara further urged residents to adopt healthier eating habits by avoiding oily and sugary foods. “Combining regular exercise with a proper diet lowers the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and certain cancers. It also improves mental health, helps with weight control, and strengthens bones and muscles,” he added.

Kabale District Woman MP, Hon Catherine Atwakiire Ndamira, echoed the call for increased physical activity and encouraged the formation of sports groups at the parish level to tap into government development programs.

“Forming groups provides a strategic advantage in accessing government initiatives, particularly those targeting social and economic empowerment. Groups create visibility, pool resources, and foster collective action,” she noted.

She added that participation in sports instills discipline, commitment, and perseverance, while also boosting self-confidence and improving teamwork and communication skills.

Rev Fr Fred Birungi, Parish Priest of Christ the King Catholic Church, said the annual tournament is aimed at promoting unity among Lay Apostolate Movement members, and marks the Uganda Martyrs Day in remembrance of the martyrs’ enduring faith and sacrifice.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), regular physical activity is vital for psycho-physical well-being at all stages of life. It plays a crucial role in preventing non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and osteoporosis, while also improving mental health, sleep, energy levels, and overall quality of life.

However, physical inactivity has become a growing global health concern, contributing significantly to the rise of NCDs. In response, WHO launched a Global Action Plan on Physical Activity, which aims to reduce physical inactivity by 10% by 2025 and 15% by 2030.

WHO recommends that children and adolescents aged 5 to 17 engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily, while adults aged 18 to 64 should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week.