Tadious Manyepo
Sports Reporter
GOVERNMENT, through the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture have rolled out a nationwide “walk for life” initiative aimed at suffocating non-communicable diseases and drug abuse.
The programme was launched in Harare last Friday with over 1000 people participating in the ground-breaking 7km-walk from Bishop Gaul Avenue in Belvedere to the National Sports Stadium.
Government officials, from different ministries, including Director of Sport and Recreation in the Sport Ministry Eugenia Chidhakwa and the ZIFA Normalisation Committee, led by their chairman Lincoln Mutasa, were all part of the procession on Friday.
In line with President Mnangagwa’s leaving no one and no place behind principle, the “walk for life” also saw those on wheelchairs and with different disabilities joining the “walk” which is running under the theme “My health, my stride”.
Upon arrival at the National Sports Stadium’s B-Arena pitch, participants engaged in different activities which included aerobics and agility games.
Guest of Honour at the launch, Deputy Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Emily Jesaya implored people from all walks of life to embrace simple fitness regimes like walking given the various health benefits they offer.
“As we take each step forward, I want to talk to you about a simple yet powerful activity that can greatly improve fitness and overall well-being: ‘WALKING’.
“Walking is something that we often take for granted, but it is a natural and accessible form of exercise that can be incorporated into our daily lives with ease,” said Jesaya.
“Whether you’re young or old, fit or just starting your fitness journey, walking has countless benefits that can enhance your life in remarkable ways.
“When you walk, your heart rate increases, pumping more oxygen-rich blood to your muscles and organs.
“This strengthens the cardiovascular system.
“Walking regularly has been known for reducing the risk of chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain types of cancer.”