A new report by the Zimbabwe Livelihoods Assessment Committee has raised a significant concern for government: a growing proportion of the adult population is overweight or obese.
The findings, presented to Cabinet, reveal that 35% of adults aged 18 to 59 are classified as overweight or obese, prompting a call for immediate action.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr. Jenfan Muswere stated that while the nation has made strides in improving food security and overall nutrition, the rising levels of obesity present a new challenge.
“With the proportion of households consuming globally acceptable diets increasing in 2025, we must also recognise that obesity is on the rise.
"This requires heightened awareness campaigns and the upscaling of screening programmes for the early detection of related diseases,” he said.
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The ZimLAC 2025 report, conducted between February and June, was designed to provide an annual update on the country’s urban and rural livelihoods to inform policy and guide interventions.
The assessment found that government-led social support and climate-proofing initiatives, such as the Pfumvudza/Intwasa strategy, have contributed to improved food security and social stability.
Despite these successes, government acknowledges that the health landscape is evolving.
The report serves as a warning that while hunger-related issues are being addressed, lifestyle diseases linked to diet and other factors are becoming more prevalent.
Going forward, government said it will continue its social protection programmes while also encouraging public works for the able-bodied and implementing measures to curb the rise in non-communicable diseases associated with obesity.
The focus, it stressed, is on ensuring a holistic approach to national health and well-being.
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