Kenyans rank among the world’s most physically active populations, a trend influenced more by economic necessity than personal choice. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), wealthier countries exhibit higher rates of sedentary lifestyles, while poorer nations like Kenya show greater levels of physical movement due to necessity.
The report highlights alarming inactivity rates among Kenyan children. In 2022, 85% of boys and 89% of girls under 18 were deemed physically inactive. However, this inactivity significantly decreases once they begin supporting themselves; from age 18, only 14% of males and 17% of females are considered inactive, marking some of the lowest rates globally.
Globally, nearly one-third of adults—31%—failed to meet recommended physical activity levels in 2022, with projections suggesting an increase to 35% by 2030. WHO emphasizes the importance of physical activity in preventing noncommunicable diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
The WHO recommends adults engage in 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity weekly. Inactivity is linked to heightened risks of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, dementia, and certain cancers.
The study, conducted by WHO and academic partners, was published in The Lancet Global Health journal. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus underscored the need for renewed commitments to boost physical activity levels, highlighting the necessity of robust policies and increased funding.
Notably, the highest inactivity rates were found in high-income regions, with physical inactivity more prevalent among women (34%) than men (29%). Older adults, particularly those over 60, are also less active, underscoring the need for targeted initiatives.
Dr. Rüdiger Krech from WHO described physical inactivity as a silent global health threat, emphasizing the need for innovative strategies to encourage activity across diverse demographics. WHO calls for strengthened policies promoting grassroots sports, active transportation, and community recreation.
Dr. Fiona Bull, head of the WHO Unit for Physical Activity, stresses that promoting physical activity requires a comprehensive societal approach, creating environments that make it easier and safer for all to engage in enjoyable physical activities.
