The Tanzania Veterans Union (UMSOTA) has unveiled plans to introduce a dedicated Exercise and Health Programme for older people, aimed at curbing the growing burden of non-communicable diseases and fostering a culture of regular physical activity across the country.
Speaking to The Respondent Online, UMSOTA Chairperson Faza Lusozi said the absence of a strong exercise culture remains a major public health challenge in Tanzania, particularly among the elderly, contributing to increased cases of lifestyle-related illnesses.
He said the programme will be rolled out through UMSOTA veterans stationed in different regions, who will be trained to lead and coordinate exercise sessions for elderly people within their local communities.
“As part of the implementation process, we have engaged key institutions including the National Sports Council (NSC), the Council for the Elderly, and heritage stakeholders to ensure older people are actively involved and supported to participate in regular physical exercise,” Lusozi said.
According to him, the initiative is expected to transform community perceptions towards physical exercise, encouraging voluntary participation and helping to build a sustainable exercise culture that will enhance the health, wellbeing and overall quality of life of older people in Tanzania.