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Every April 6, the world marks the World Day of Physical Activity, which has been celebrated since 2002.  Regular exercises contribute significantly to the reduction of non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases as well as reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. 

To mark the World Day of Physical Activity, Bena Nekesa and Pauline Luba narrate how a 31-year-old man is contributing to healthy living in his community.

For long, some people have held the misconception that excessive weight is a sign of wealth. 

However, the recent increase in health concerns over weight gain and non-communicable diseases have made many appreciate the importance of a healthier lifestyle.

One such health concern that is unsettling people is the World Health Organisation report that heart disease is the number one cause of adult death globally. 

Joseph Cheswa, one of the members of the club.

The 2020 Uganda Global Nutrition report found that 10.4% of Uganda’s adult women and an average of 2.5% of the adult men are living with obesity.

By 2019, non-communicable diseases were responsible for 36% of the deaths in Uganda. Such statistics have unsettled people like 31-year-old Charles Miti, to the point of getting to act.

In 2022, Miti chose to celebrate his birthday which falls on August 20 by creating awareness about the importance of exercise. He walked from Kampala to Jinja, a distance of over 80km in a bid to create that awareness. 

That walk gave Miti many ideas on how to further his gospel of fitness, especially among the members of the community in which he lives. Last year, he established a fitness club at Uganda Christian University, targeting the institution’s students. Miti is also a student at the university, pursuing a degree in accounting and finance. 

With the club, Miti envisioned a journey of holistic transformation that encompasses mental resilience and spiritual growth not just for himself but others. Since its inception a year ago, the club Miti has become a cornerstone of support and empowerment for its members.

Miti is not just the founder of the club but is also a beneficiary of its objectives. For instance, not so long ago, he weighed 94 kilogrammes. He has since cut that weight by 20kg.

“I was inspired to create a space where others could embark on their transformative voyages,” he said. 

Charles Miti

“Walking is at the center of what we do, but there is much more. Fitness is medicine and is everything. Once you choose the road of fitness, you are cured physically, mentally, and spiritually.” 

In addition to walking, the members also engage in aerobics, swimming, and jogging. Joseph Ssebanenya, Miti’s brother who is a medical doctor, has played a crucial role in providing professional insights about health and fitness to members. 

According to the World Health Organisation, regular exercise not only extends one’s lifespan up to 10 years but also promotes overall health, reduces the risk of chronic diseases, and enhances cognitive function, which leads to improved productivity and quality of life. 

For Miti and the 50 other participants, the club represents more than just physical activity; it is a sanctuary of happiness and personal growth. They have forged bonds that have transcended mere acquaintanceship, evolving into a tight-knit community.

“Through prayer, fellowship, and shared experiences, our members discovered the transformative power of nurturing both body and spirit,” he said. 

“Through collective efforts, we have created a supportive community where individuals thrived, not just academically, but also emotionally and spiritually.”

Through support and encouragement, individuals struggling with issues ranging from self-esteem to addiction have found solace and strength for positive views about life.

This story was produced in partnership with Uganda Partners