Development of a policy brief to facilitate the implementation of the physical activity/sports policy in Rwanda
Year: 2018
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: The importance of health enhancing physical activity participation (HEPA) has always been emphasized globally, as one of the means to reduce the risk of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) occurrence.In Africa, it is more relevant currently, due to the growing burden of NCDs that is coupled with the existing encumbrance of communicable diseases.In Rwanda, specifically, there are limited national strategies to promote health-enhancing physical activity.Consequently, the level of physical activity among Rwandans, especially government office workers, is likely to diminish, which could possibly be attributed to the rapid urbanization that comes with lifestyle changes.Basically, most people tend to abandon the traditional labour-intensive activities, which are associated with high energy expenditure, to more sedentary activities.Therefore, the need to promote health enhancing physical activity participation is crucial.Physical activity participation is an intricate and multifaceted behaviour that may not be viewed from a linear perspective.This current study adopted a socio-ecological framework to assess the factors that influence Leisure Time Physical Activity (LTPA) among government employees in Kigali City.The study used an exploratory, sequential, mixed methods of qualitative and quantitative designs, in order to comprehensively explore and understand the research problem.Qualitatively, a Case study and exploratory design was used to collect data, specifically from the Rwanda Sport Policy and its implementing stakeholders.Quantitatively, a cross-sectional, descriptive design was used to assess and describe the levels of LTPA among government workers in Kigali City, as well as highlight the various factors that influence, or limit, their participation.Data were collected in four phases, commencing with a review of the Rwanda Sports Policy as phase one.The policy was reviewed using the ADEPT and Linear policy process models.In the second phase, semi structured interviews were conducted with thirteen key stakeholders of the Sports Policy, who were purposively selected.The aim was to explore their opinions and experiences, regarding the policy, and how it is implemented.The third phase was a survey among 521 government workers in Kigali City, who were conveniently selected from a stratified population sample.Their demographic profiles were assessed, as http://etd.uwc.ac.za/ and for fulfilling His promise to me.To Him be Glory and Honour.I profoundly thank my supervisor, Professor José Frantz, for her professional guidance, encouragement, patience and divine wisdom.Thank you for believing in me and reassuring me that I could make it.You have been an inspiration to me in many ways and it has been amazing working under your guidance (which I prefer to call
Author: Lela Mukaruzima
Language: English
Topic: Physical Activity and Health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2912965041