SADC warns about growing weight problems across southern Africa affecting all ages. Children as young as five show obesity signs because of unhealthy living habits. South Africa leads with 55 percent adult obesity rates. Many other countries face similar issues, with Malawi at 25 percent. Girls experience higher obesity levels than boys throughout the region.
This health crisis creates major money troubles for countries. Obesity reduces the amount of work people can do and increases sick days, which hurts economic growth. The world spent almost 2 trillion dollars on obesity costs in 2020, and this might double to 4 trillion dollars by 2035. African countries could pay 50 billion dollars yearly because of obesity problems.
People eat more processed foods instead of traditional healthy meals. Foreign companies invest heavily in sugary drinks. Food imports have changed what people eat daily. Urban areas saw obesity first, but rural communities caught up fast. Poor communities face increasing risk as the problem spreads everywhere.
SADC wants governments to make stronger rules about unhealthy food marketing. They suggest taxes on sugary drinks. Schools need better food choices without junk food nearby. Companies should make foods with less sugar, salt trans-fats. Schools must create more spaces for physical activity to help children stay healthy.
This health crisis creates major money troubles for countries. Obesity reduces the amount of work people can do and increases sick days, which hurts economic growth. The world spent almost 2 trillion dollars on obesity costs in 2020, and this might double to 4 trillion dollars by 2035. African countries could pay 50 billion dollars yearly because of obesity problems.
People eat more processed foods instead of traditional healthy meals. Foreign companies invest heavily in sugary drinks. Food imports have changed what people eat daily. Urban areas saw obesity first, but rural communities caught up fast. Poor communities face increasing risk as the problem spreads everywhere.
SADC wants governments to make stronger rules about unhealthy food marketing. They suggest taxes on sugary drinks. Schools need better food choices without junk food nearby. Companies should make foods with less sugar, salt trans-fats. Schools must create more spaces for physical activity to help children stay healthy.
