Chinhanu’s Call to Action: Young People Prioritize Health Enhancements Minister of Health, Kenneth Chinhanu, has issued an urgent plea to the nation’s youth, emphasizing the paramount importance of maintaining and improving their health. Addressing a gathering of young people, Chinhanu highlighted the critical role they play in shaping the future of Zimbabwe. “Your health is the foundation upon which your aspirations and dreams are built,” Chinhanu declared. “It is essential that you make healthy choices and prioritize your well-being, not only for your own sake but also for the sake of our nation.” Chinhanu emphasized the alarming rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among young people, including hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. He attributed this trend to unhealthy lifestyles characterized by poor nutrition, physical inactivity, and excessive screen time. “These diseases are a ticking time bomb that threatens the productivity and prosperity of our country,” he warned. “If we do not take immediate action to address this crisis, the consequences will be severe.” To tackle this challenge, Chinhanu outlined several key interventions that young people should embrace: * Adopt a Healthy Diet: Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive sodium intake. * Engage in Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. This can include walking, running, swimming, or any activity that raises your heart rate. * Quit Smoking and Avoid Alcohol Excess: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are major risk factors for NCDs. Chinhanu urged young people to shun these harmful habits. * Get Sufficient Sleep: Adequate sleep is crucial for physical and mental health. Young people should aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. * Manage Stress: Stress can negatively impact health. Chinhanu encouraged young people to find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation. Chinhanu also highlighted the importance of mental health. He urged young people to seek help if they are struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. “You are not alone,” he reassured. “There are resources available to support you. Reach out to a trusted adult, a health professional, or a mental health hotline.” In conclusion, Chinhanu’s message to young people was clear: “Your health is your most precious asset. Invest in it now, and reap the rewards of a healthier, more fulfilling life. Together, let us create a Zimbabwe where every young person has the opportunity to live a long, healthy, and prosperous life.”MUTARE-based realistic charcoal pencil artist Charles Chinhanu tackles various themes through his creative drawings. His art, classified as realist art, conveys bold messages through his meticulous attention to detail and subtle disguises of his overall intent.MUTARE-based realistic charcoal pencil artist Charles Chinhanu tackles various themes through his creative drawings. His art, classified as realist art, conveys bold messages through his meticulous attention to detail and subtle disguises of his overall intent. Chinhanu’s drawing “Eye Focus” depicts a leopard with a focused gaze, symbolizing determination and strategic planning. He emphasizes the need to stay focused on objectives and to hide from prey until the opportune moment. He also draws parallels between the leopard’s hunting strategy and the importance of honing skills and staying dedicated to goals in any chosen career path. “Health Wise” addresses the issue of HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections among young people. The drawing features condoms and sharp objects, reminding viewers that unprotected sex and infected needles remain the primary transmission routes. Chinhanu hopes to encourage serious reflection on HIV prevention and treatment. “Handle Your Love” explores themes of self-control, family bonds, love, and compassion. Through this drawing, Chinhanu emphasizes the importance of maintaining healthy relationships and treating each other with respect and kindness. Chinhanu believes that creating spaces for exhibitions and fostering communication and networking helps the local and international communities appreciate charcoal pencil drawing and other art forms. He adds that his drawings are primarily intended for wall hanging and serve as symbolic content to convey messages and inspire reflection. Despite the challenges faced due to the cost of materials, Chinhanu remains passionate about his art and hopes to teach others the techniques of charcoal pencil drawing. He believes that art has the power to sharpen the mind and motivate individuals to achieve their goals.Chinhanu, a community leader, recently urged young people to prioritize their health by engaging in physical activity and maintaining a nutritious diet. He emphasized the importance of regular exercise and a balanced intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains for overall well-being. Chinhanu highlighted the benefits of physical activity, such as improved cardiovascular health, reduced stress levels, and enhanced mood. He encouraged young people to incorporate activities they enjoy into their daily routines, such as brisk walking, cycling, or team sports. Regarding nutrition, Chinhanu stressed the need for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. He advised against consuming excessive amounts of processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats, as they can contribute to health problems such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Chinhanu expressed concern about the growing prevalence of sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits among young people, emphasizing the need for a proactive approach to health. He encouraged parents, teachers, and community leaders to support young people in making healthy choices and creating a supportive environment for their well-being.