Story by Patience Nyagato
ZIMBABWE this week hosted the Regional Summit on Obesity and Chronic Diseases in Harare, bringing together health experts, policymakers, and researchers to confront the rising threat of obesity and related non-communicable diseases (NCDs) across the region.
The summit, held on Friday, marks a significant step in the country’s contribution to the global campaign against lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular illnesses, which are increasingly linked to changes in diet, urbanisation, and sedentary lifestyles.
Health professionals at the gathering underscored the need for coordinated interventions, public awareness, and stronger policy frameworks to manage and prevent obesity and its associated conditions.
“We are bringing together different practitioners so that we can develop national guidelines to manage people living with obesity. The numbers are rising globally, and Zimbabwe is no exception. We are seeing more patients with high blood pressure, diabetes, and breathing problems, all linked to excess weight,” Chairperson of the Regional Summit on Obesity and Chronic Diseases, DR Munyaradzi Muriva said.
Guest of Honour, Colonel Miniyothabo Chiwenga, emphasised that health promotion must begin at home and within communities if the fight against obesity is to succeed.
“The fight against obesity cannot be won by doctors alone. It requires families, schools, policymakers, and every citizen to promote healthy living,” she said.
Experts at the summit underscored the need for a national framework that prioritises prevention, research, and public education on the risks of obesity and its link to chronic diseases.
As the summit concluded, delegates agreed that building a healthier Zimbabwe demands collaboration across sectors from households and schools to hospitals and government institutions.
