The Ministry of Health has formally endorsed an amendment to the Ministry of Sports’ National Sport Policy and Strategic Plan, recognising the essential link between sport and public health.
This endorsement was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Health and the National Sport Council which paves the way for increased collaboration between them to ensure that St. Kitts and Nevis bolsters its efforts to combat inactivity and the scourge of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
The amended policy now includes the Ministry of Health as a key stakeholder whose objective is to integrate health and wellness considerations into sport development and activities.
This collaboration aims to promote physical wellbeing among athletes and the general population, provide expertise on health related matters in relation to sport, and support initiatives that enhance overall health through participation in sport and physical activities.
Minister of Health, Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, who is also the CARICOM lead on health matters, has long voiced his government’s commitment to strengthening the national health system through avenues which include promoting healthy lifestyles through sport. This partnership with the National Sport Council underscores the importance of a holistic approach to health and wellness.
The Minister of Sport, Samal Duggins, also the just concluded 11th Commonwealth Sports Ministers Meeting in Paris as a platform to advocate for more sport and wellness initiatives in St. Kitts and Nevis and the region.
“Sport and physical activity are powerful tools in our arsenal to combat the NCD epidemic. They offer numerous benefits including reducing the risk of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers.
“Beyond physical health, engaging in sports enhances mental well-being, reduces stress, and fosters social cohesion within communities,” Minister Duggins said as he addressed the Commonwealth Sports Ministers meeting.
NCDs are responsible for 80 percent of morbidity and mortality. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for innovative and sustainable strategies to promote healthier lifestyles and improve public health outcomes.
The St. Kitts National Sport Council continues to work with international partners such as the Commonwealth Secretariat and UNESCO to strengthen strategic collaboration on the health and wellbeing of St. Kitts and Nevis.
File Photo: Minister of Sport, Samal Duggins, and the National Sport Council’s Chairperson, Glenn Quinlan, going over components of the National Sport Policy and Strategic Plan.
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