Fitness Among the Graves: A Community’s Quest for Health in Zimbabwe
1. Dawn Exercise in Unlikely Surroundings
In the early hours of the morning, 65-year-old Nelly Mutandwa begins her day with a purposeful routine. Swapping pajamas for workout gear, she joins a group at an unconventional gym—a cemetery in Harare. Surrounded by graves, the group engages in squats, lunges, and stretches to upbeat music. For Nelly, this daily ritual is more than exercise; it’s a vital strategy to manage her diabetes. "They are resting," she gestures to the graves, "I just don’t want to join them yet. That means I have to do the hard work here."
2. Scarcity of Gyms Drives Creativity
The lack of fitness facilities in Zimbabwe, especially for older adults, has led people to innovate. Cemeteries, highways, and former railway lines become workout spots. For Nelly, the cemetery’s wide, well-maintained path offers safety and serenity, a stark contrast to her township’s potholed roads. This creative solution highlights resilience and community spirit in the face of limited resources.
3. The Rise of Non-Communicable Diseases
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes and hypertension are on the rise in Zimbabwe, now causing 40% of deaths annually. Globally, NCDs account for 74% of fatalities, according to the WHO. Once prevalent mainly among the elderly, NCDs are increasingly affecting younger populations due to poor diets and sedentary lifestyles. This shift challenges health systems and underscores the need for preventive measures.
4. Modern Lifestyles and Health Challenges
Lifestyle changes in Zimbabwe are driving the NCD surge. Urbanization brings fast food and reduced physical activity. Smartphones contribute to inactivity, while droughts affect food security. Dr. Johannes Marisa notes the alarming increase in NCDs among the young, linking it to unhealthy habits and substance abuse. This trend signals a future health crisis if unaddressed.
5. Government Interventions and Community Response
To combat NCDs, Zimbabwe’s Finance Minister introduced a tax on junk food to promote healthier diets. Meanwhile, communities take initiative. The Commandos Fitness Club, led by Joseph Nekati, offers free workouts. Members like Susan Gomo, who lost weight and managed arthritis, inspire others. Susan’s transformation encourages peers to adopt active lifestyles, showing the power of community support.
6. Hope and Healing Through Exercise
Nelly and her group symbolize hope, using the cemetery as a space for healing and life. They hope for better facilities but find motivation in their progress. As Nelly walks home, her determination embodies a broader movement towards health. Their story shows how community efforts can transform lives, offering a beacon of hope for healthier futures in Zimbabwe.
