ZANZIBAR: PRESIDENT Hussein Mwinyi has expressed concern over the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Zanzibar, calling for collective action to address the issue.
“NCDs cause more deaths and illnesses worldwide than any other cause and Zanzibar is no exception. Everyone has a crucial role to play in reducing this burden,” President Mwinyi said on Sunday after leading a three-kilometre fitness walk.
The walk, which took place in Unguja from the Kiembe-samaki area to Mao-Tse-Tung stadium, aimed to promote regular exercise and health checks—essential practices in combating NCDs such as diabetes, cancer and hypertension.
“The Zanzibar government continues to tackle NCDs by urging coordinated efforts across all sectors and age groups to address this growing problem,” Dr Mwinyi added.
He emphasised that many of these diseases are linked to lifestyle choices and can be prevented by adopting healthy habits, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet and following health guidelines.
The walk was organised by the Zanzibar Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Pharm Access Institute as part of a special campaign against NCDs in the Zanzibar community.
President Mwinyi, who led the event despite the morning rain, shared that studies show that regular physical activity and healthy eating significantly reduce the risk of NCDs and also improve mental health, helping to prevent depression and stress.
Dr Mwinyi also noted that statistics from the Ministry of Health indicate an increase in NCDs, including diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. He urged the public not to undermine the government’s efforts by failing to observe health precautions recommended by experts. “Treating NCDs is costly for both the government and families,” he said.
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He encouraged citizens to visit hospitals for regular health checks, noting that over 60 health centres offer these services for free.
President Mwinyi praised the Ministry of Health and development partners, particularly the GEZI Health Initiatives and Chinese medical teams, for their ongoing efforts in educating the public and providing cancer screenings.
Plans are also underway to establish a cardiac institute in Zanzibar, which will provide modern facilities and reduce the costs of sending patients abroad, bringing essential services closer to the people.
Zanzibar’s Health Minister, Mr Nassor Ahmed Mazrui, assured that the government is taking various measures to ensure the health of its people. He urged both public and private institutions to organise regular community exercise sessions at least once a month.
Pharm Access Director Kheri Marwa stressed that the issue of NCDs is a global challenge, requiring collective action to encourage exercise and healthy eating to reduce the burden.
