Universities are evaluated not just by academic output, but by their tangible impact on societal challenges. KCA University hosted an historic launch of the Kenya National Physical Activity Guidelines alongside the 1st International Symposium on Physical Activity and Public Health, in a landmark event that brought together national government, academia, sports and global health experts to influence national public policy.
The guidelines are designed to serve as a comprehensive, evidence-informed national framework aimed at combating the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by systematically reducing physical inactivity across Kenya. They establish a practical blueprint to influence lifestyle behaviors, shape healthier public environments and inspire regular active living across all age groups within schools, workplaces and local communities. Ultimately, the guidelines aim to translate public health research into actionable everyday practices, thereby boosting human productivity, reducing healthcare costs and enhancing the overall quality of life and national development.
Speaking on behalf of Mary Muthoni Muriuki, CBS, Principal Secretary, State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, Dr. Joel Ngondi, Director, Primary Healthcare, emphasized the strategic timing of this policy framework, saying, “Physical inactivity continues to pose a major threat to public health, contributing significantly to the growing burden of non-communicable diseases. Doing some physical activity is always better than doing none.”
This sentiment was echoed by Mr. Ngandeu Ngatta Hugue, the Programme Specialist for Social and Human Sciences at UNESCO, who commended the convergence of science and community, noting how critical such platforms are for sustainable development.
Similarly, Dr. Neema Rusibamayila Kimambo, the World Health Organization (WHO) Representative to Kenya, highlighted the global necessity of the physical guidelines, saying, “The decisions we make and the actions we inspire through these guidelines have the potential to improve quality of life, reduce the burden of disease and contribute meaningfully to Kenya’s development priorities.”
At the heart of this collaborative success is the University’s commitment to translating research into live community interventions. Reflecting on the university’s vision, KCA University Vice Chancellor & CEO, Prof. Isaiah I. C. Wakindiki, PhD, EBS, noted that “Healthy minds flourish best in healthy bodies. Meaningful collaborations achieve the greatest impact when they move beyond dialogue into action. KCA University will continue to use research, innovation and strategic partnerships to shape frameworks that improve lives.”
Through this historic symposium, KCAU has redefined the mandate of modern higher education and proven that universities have what it takes to turn rigorous research into sustainable national policy.
