President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called for stronger community fitness and wellness programmes to promote healthier lifestyles and help combat non-communicable diseases.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Helao Nafidi Sports Centre, the President said conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and certain cancers are affecting too many families and claiming too many lives. he said facilities such as the new sports centre provide people of all ages with an opportunity to become more physically active and pursue healthier lifestyles in a safe and conducive environment. “Movement is not only recreation; it is also prevention,”

President Nandi-Ndaitwah said, stressing that regular physical activity can help prevent and manage non-communicable diseases, strengthen physical and mental well-being, and reduce the risk of premature death.

She called on the Ministry of Health and Social Services, the ministry responsible for sport, as well as local authorities and municipalities, to work together to develop and support community fitness and wellness programmes.

The President said making healthy living more accessible can improve quality of life and help Namibians live longer, healthier and more productive lives.

By Rudi Bowe