Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a significant health concern in Zimbabwe, accounting for about 40% of annual deaths. These diseases, which include conditions like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and certain cancers, are projected to surpass communicable diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, and cholera as the leading cause of death in sub-Saharan Africa by 2030, according to the World Health Association (WHO).
In response to this growing health challenge, various initiatives are being undertaken. as an example, a fitness club called Commandos Fitness Club operates in a cemetery in harare, Zimbabwe. This club, coached by Joseph nekati, provides a free space for older adults to engage in physical exercise. Nekati started the club after his mother suffered a stroke,inspiring him to help others prevent similar health issues.
Members of the club, including 64-year-old Susan Gomo, have reported significant health improvements. Gomo, who manages high blood pressure and arthritis, has lost weight and improved her mobility through regular exercise. The club aims to encourage other older adults to adopt healthier lifestyles and combat the rising prevalence of NCDs.
Additionally, the zimbabwean goverment has implemented measures to promote healthier dietary choices. In the 2025 national budget, Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube introduced a 0.5% tax on the sale of certain foods, including doughnuts, tacos, pizza, hot dogs, shawarma, fries, chicken, and burgers. This tax is intended to discourage the consumption of unhealthy foods and mitigate the prevalence of non-communicable diseases.
These efforts highlight the multifaceted approach being taken to address the growing health crisis posed by non-communicable diseases in Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwean Women Find Fitness and Community in an Unlikely Place: A Cemetery
Table of Contents
In the heart of Zimbabwe, a group of women have discovered an unusual yet serene spot for their fitness routines. The cemetery, once a place of somber reflection, has transformed into a symbol of life and health for these determined individuals.
A new Path to Wellness
For Gomo, a resident of Zimbabwe, the journey to better health began with a simple observation. “They end up just eating and sitting at home. They might change their minds when they see me in great shape,” she noted. This realization sparked a desire to inspire others through her own transformation.
Mutandwa, another resident, picked up the habit of power walks during a visit to her daughter in the United Kingdom in 2022. Upon returning home, she tried to continue her newfound routine but faced challenges. The roads in her township were potholed and crowded, making it challenging to walk safely. She resorted to solo walks on a nearby hill, but even that felt unsafe.
Discovering the Cemetery Path
Last year, Mutandwa noticed a fitness club operating in the local cemetery. The wide, well-maintained path provided an ideal workout spot. With three of her neighbors, she approached the coach, who welcomed them with open arms. This marked the beginning of a unique fitness journey.
The cemetery, once a place of final rest, has now become a beacon of life and community for these women. It offers a serene, safe habitat with ample space and minimal disturbances, making it an ideal location for their fitness activities.
A symbol of Life and Health
For Mutandwa and others, the cemetery has come to symbolize their quest to live healthier lives and outpace death—one step at a time. “It’s serene, it’s safe and we have a lot of space with minimal disturbances.Hopefully the (local) council can build proper facilities for us,” Mutandwa said, preparing to stroll back home.
Key Points: The Cemetery Fitness Club
| Aspect | Details |
|———————-|————————————————————————-|
| Location | Local cemetery in Zimbabwe |
| Activities | Power walks, fitness routines |
| Benefits | Serene, safe, ample space |
| Goals | Improved health, community building |
| Future Hopes | Proper facilities from the local council |
Engaging the Community
Gomo’s journey has not only transformed her life but also inspired those around her. Her active lifestyle serves as a motivation for others to adopt healthier habits. “They might change their minds when they see me in great shape,” she remarked, highlighting the power of personal example.
Support and Collaboration
The associated Press receives financial support for global health and development coverage in Africa from the Gates Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies and a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.
Stay Informed
For more on Africa and development, visit AP News.
This unique story of resilience and community spirit in Zimbabwe showcases how even the most unexpected places can become sanctuaries for personal growth and collective well-being.
Zimbabwean Women Find Fitness and Community in an Unlikely Place: A Cemetery
In the heart of Zimbabwe,a group of women have discovered an unusual yet serene spot for their fitness routines. the cemetery, once a place of somber reflection, has transformed into a symbol of life and health for these determined individuals.
New path to wellness
for Gomo, a resident of Zimbabwe, the journey to better health began with a simple observation. “They end up just eating and sitting at home.They might change their minds when they see me in great shape,” she noted. This realization sparked a desire to inspire others through her own transformation.
Mutandwa, another resident, picked up the habit of power walks during a visit to her daughter in the United Kingdom in 2022. Upon returning home, she tried to continue her newfound routine but faced challenges. The roads in her township were potholed and crowded, making it challenging to walk safely. She resorted to solo walks on a nearby hill, but even that felt unsafe.
Discovering the Cemetery Path
Last year, Mutandwa noticed a fitness club operating in the local cemetery. The wide, well-maintained path provided an ideal workout spot. With three of her neighbors, she approached the coach, who welcomed them with open arms. This marked the beginning of a unique fitness journey.
The cemetery, once a place of final rest, has now become a beacon of life and community for these women. It offers a serene, safe habitat with ample space and minimal disturbances, making it an ideal location for their fitness activities.
Symbol of Life and Health
For Mutandwa and others,the cemetery has come to symbolize their quest to live healthier lives and outpace death—one step at a time. “It’s serene, it’s safe and we have a lot of space with minimal disturbances. Hopefully, the (local) council can build proper facilities for us,” Mutandwa said, preparing to stroll back home.
Key Points: The Cemetery Fitness Club
| Aspect | details |
|—————————|————————————————————————————–|
| Location | Local cemetery in Zimbabwe |
| Activities | Power walks,fitness routines |
| Benefits | Serene,safe,ample space |
| Goals | Improved health,community building |
| Future Hopes | Proper facilities from the local council |
Engaging the Community
Gomo’s journey has not onyl transformed her life but also inspired those around her. Her active lifestyle serves as a motivation for others to adopt healthier habits. ”They might change their minds when they see me in great shape,” she remarked,highlighting the power of personal example.
Support and Collaboration
The Associated Press receives financial support for global health and development coverage in Africa from the Gates Foundation.The AP is solely responsible for all content.find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies and a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.orgStay Informed
For more on Africa and development, visit AP News
This unique story of resilience and community spirit in Zimbabwe showcases how even the most unexpected places can become sanctuaries for personal growth and collective well-being.
