The perceptions of Bulawayo residents on local small-scale sport events in promoting sustainable physical activity lifestyle in Zimbabwe.

Abstract

The study was done because of the growing numbers of non-communicable diseases in Bulawayo Metropolitan, Zimbabwe. Although small-scale sport events are becoming common and popular there is no research that was done in the country on the same subject. Community-based sport events offer many benefits to residents such as social cohesion which brings pride and a sense of belonging, economic development, good health and well-being. However, challenges include lack of government support, limited recreational spaces for physical activity, and high-cost entry fees. The objective was to determine strategies that can be implemented by policy makers to promote long-term health and active lifestyle habits and minimize the risk of diseases. The study employed a qualitative research design to understand real world problems in a relaxed and natural setting. An interview guide with open ended questions encouraged meaningful dialogue. All participants were chosen from various stakeholders including sports administrators, athletes and inactive individuals. Convenience sampling was used based on existing networks. All interviews were recorded using Teams and transcribed for analysis on Microsoft Word. The interviews lasted from thirty to sixty minutes. The city of Bulawayo residents has the potential to promote sustainable physical activity lifestyles especially when supported with safe recreational spaces, and when the events are inclusive for all people with various conditions. The event organizers aim to promote grassroots sport to improve health outcomes and reduce crime among the unemployed youth. Drawing on conclusions, Bulawayo residents acknowledge that small-scale events foster community identity and cultural heritage. There is a need to make events more accessible and frequent so that the events can prolong on long term basis. The organizers should have a genuine desire to promote residents’ health and wellbeing rather than running events for personal gains. Policy makers and the government must support community initiative to promote healthy lifestyle habits.