Nairobi, Kenya – June 2026 – Kenya has taken a major step in advancing preventive healthcare with the launch of the country’s first National Physical Activity Guidelines. The Guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations aimed at promoting active lifestyles and addressing physical inactivity, a key risk factor contributing to the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Kenya.
Developed by the Ministry of Health through the Division of Health Promotion and Education Management, the Guidelines are designed to support all population groups, including children, adolescents, adults, older persons, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities. They align with Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage agenda, Vision 2030, and the World Health Organization’s Global Action Plan on Physical Activity 2018–2030.
Speaking at the launch, Timothy Wafula from KELIN noted that
“We are especially encouraged by the strong emphasis on equity, inclusion, and accessibility. The Guidelines affirm that every person—regardless of age, gender, disability status, health condition, or socioeconomic background— should have access to opportunities that support healthy living. This aligns with KELIN’s commitment to advancing the right to health and ensuring that no one is left behind in Kenya’s journey towards Universal Health Coverage. We look forward to supporting efforts to translate these recommendations into action at national, county and community levels.”
Since 2020, KELIN has been implementing projects that seek to contribute towards the prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through advocating for policy measures that promote healthy diets and Physical activity. With the support of the International Development Law Organization (IDLO), KELIN supported the development of a Policy Brief on Promoting Physical Activity in Kenya reigniting conversations on physical activity as a policy measure to prevent NCDs. KELIN also provided technical input during the development of the Guidelines and will continue to advocate for their implementation in counties, schools, workplaces, health facilities and communities.
The launch of the Guidelines marks an important milestone in Kenya’s efforts to prevent NCDs and promote healthier lifestyles. Effective implementation will require coordinated action across sectors, including health, education, transport, urban planning and sports, to create environments that support and encourage physical activity for all.
For more information, please contact:
Timothy Wafula
E-mail: twafula@kelinkenya.org
Website: www.kelinkenya.org
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/kelinkenya
X: @KELINKenya
