Although Kenyans enjoy comparatively good health, the prevalence of chronic disease is increasing and our ageing population is placing ever- growing pressures on the finite resources of our health system. Improving the uptake of physical activity at a population level can play a vital role in relieving these pressures. Physical activity can be preventative as well as helping to improve the quality of life of those with a chronic disease. Physical inactivity, on the other hand, plays a direct role in the development and progression of chronic health conditions.
This Acton plan seeks to highlight physical activity as a priority area for the Ministry of Health and create greater recognition of the importance of physical activity in optimising health outcomes. It brings together current evidence and identifies key physical activity issues for the Kenyan population. The NPAAP, sets out our key strategic objectives which include; 1. Development and dissemination of national legislation, policies and guidelines that promote physical activity, 2.Creation of public awareness on the health benefits of physical activity, 3. Strengthen implementation of the physical activity component of the school health policy and 4. Support implementation of programmes that promote physical activity in community settings.
Many of the drivers which can make a positive contribution to improved physical activity outcomes, such as transport and urban planning policy, are however outside of the direct control of the MOH. The Framework therefore describes the key roles that other sectors can play in the improvement of physical activity outcomes and acknowledges our many shared goals across government portfolios and in the community sector. The Ministry of Health for its own part will continue to work towards, and advocate for, innovative ways to promote physical activity in our daily work and play, and in our schools, families and communities, so that the healthy choice to be physically active can be the easy choice.
Sicily K. Kariuki (Mrs.), EGH
Cabinet Secretary