Kathmandu: Health Concern, a non-governmental organization working in preventive and promotive health, has intensified its efforts to reduce non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among youth and adolescents through sports- and community-based interventions in Nepal.
Under the Community Sport and Health Cooperation Initiative in Nepal, supported by PATH with backing from the International Olympic Committee, Health Concern organized two major events on January 24 and 25, 2026—a community run and an interschool sports competition—aimed at promoting active lifestyles and mental well-being among young people.
As part of the initiative, a Community Run themed “#WalkForHealth” was held on January 24 at the International Club, Sanepa, Lalitpur. Organized in collaboration with the Artha Run Club (ARC), the event attracted 300–350 participants, including community members, youth, families, runners, and walkers from diverse backgrounds.
The 6-kilometre run followed the ARC route, starting and ending at the International Club, Sanepa. Designed as an inclusive event, participants were encouraged to walk, jog, or run at their own pace. Volunteers were stationed along the route, with water points and first-aid services ensuring participants’ safety and comfort.
The event was graced by Susanne Gaerte, Senior Manager for Olympism365 at the International Olympic Committee, who is on an official visit to Nepal from January 23 to 26, 2026. Her presence highlighted the role of physical activity in daily life as a powerful tool for improving health and reducing the burden of NCDs, in line with the global vision of “Olympism365 – Sport for a Better World.”
Also present were members of the PATH Global Team from the United States, including Helen McGuire, Global Program Lead – Non-Communicable Diseases, and Roshini George, Senior Program Officer. They actively participated in the run and encouraged community members to adopt regular physical activity for both physical and mental well-being.
Organizers noted that the Community Sport and Health Cooperation Initiative is currently being implemented across four districts of Bagmati Province, with schools serving as key platforms for early health promotion, life-skills development, and community engagement. Through collaboration with local governments, schools, community groups, and youth sports clubs, Health Concern aims to foster sustainable, inclusive, and age-appropriate sports activities.
Participants welcomed the initiative, acknowledging the importance of healthy lifestyles and daily physical activity. The event concluded with a prize distribution ceremony and a collective commitment by participants to continue engaging in regular physical activity for active and healthy living.
