11 June 2025
The Importance of Movement: The Health Benefits of Sport and Play
In today’s world, people are moving less than ever before. More time on phones, computers, and sitting indoors means less time being active. This is a big problem all over the world. And it’s especially important for children and youth, who need exercise to grow up healthy, happy, and strong.
At DBA Africa, we believe that sport and movement can change lives. Whether it’s playing rugby at school, running around with friends, or kicking a football in the street, being active helps young people in so many ways.
The World Is Not Moving Enough
The World Health Organization (WHO) says that over 1.8 billion people around the world do not get enough exercise. That number is rising. In fact, by 2030, 35% of adults will be considered physically inactive. This means more people will suffer from serious health problems like heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and depression.And it’s not just adults. Around 81% of teenagers are not getting the exercise they need.
Why Exercise Matters for Youth
Physical activity is about much more than fitness. For young people, regular exercise:
- Boosts mental health and reduces stress
- Builds confidence and teamwork skills
- Helps them do better in school and in life
- Keeps their bodies strong and healthy
- Connects them to their community
When children and teenagers play sport, they also learn how to solve problems, respect others, and lead and communicate.
Sport Is Part of the Solution
Sport is a powerful tool to bring people together. It doesn’t matter if it’s football in Nigeria, cycling in Rwanda, or Running in Ethiopia, sport builds unity and gives young people purpose.
At DBA Africa, we are using sport to create real change. From school programmes to youth academies, we help boys and girls stay active, develop life skills, and believe in their own potential.
A Chance to Lead the Way
These finding show that there’s a chance to make a difference, especially in our own backyard. By investing in school sports programmes, safe play areas, and community sport projects, we can inspire a generation to move more, play more, and grow up healthier. And this isn’t just good for people, it’s good for the planet too. Walking, running, or biking instead of driving helps reduce pollution and fight climate change.
Let’s Build a World That Moves
At DBA Africa, we believe that every child has the right to play, move, and grow in safe and supportive spaces. That’s why we’re working to bring sport to every community, so that being active becomes a natural part of every young person’s life.
Through our grassroots programmes, we’re not just promoting physical activity; we’re changing lives through sport, empowering and educating youth, advancing gender equality, and building trust through local, transparent leadership. From fun and fitness to confidence and community, sport is a powerful tool, and with the right support, it can take young people from grassroots to greatness.