Vincy Moves – sustainability is key

St Vincent and the Grenadines is poised to launch its version of the “ Caribbean Moves”, dubbed “ Vincy Moves”.

Essentially, Vincy Moves, like the wider Caribbean Moves, is a multi-sectoral health and wellness initiative, that sets out to bring together the nation’s health districts, sports associations, fitness groupings, walking groups, gym operators, fitness instructors and enthusiasts, interested individuals and communities, in forging and sustaining movement for healthy living.

Indeed, this a noble undertaking and warrants the support of all stakeholders, as the country must advance that thrust towards getting the business of wellness into the psyche of most, if not all Vincentians.

And, it is most timely at this juncture, as we have been experiencing many health challenges, directly linked to lack of physical activities, exercise and unhealthy lifestyles.

Hypertension, diabetes, chronic heart conditions and cancers, are among the ailments which Vincentians are chalking up.

Staving off the aforementioned non- communicable diseases that affect our people on a frequent basis has put a strain on our local health services. The effects of the fall outs are far- reaching, as productivity and a demand on the already scarce financial resources of the state, compound the issues.

The general concept of St Vincent and the Grenadines embarking on a nation-wide approach of health and general well-being, is nothing new.

We just have to jog our memories a few years back, when the much touted “ Wellness Revolution” was in the air as a tag line.

However, things then have not evolved and we are back at it, but with a sweeter -sounding promotion caption.

Therefore, as Vincy Moves is launched this Saturday October 22, 2022, the hope is that the fanfare,trappings, speeches, health screening, traditional, contemporary, recreational and sporting activities, the dance offs and aerobics, are not “ the one -day police” phenomenon.

As Vincentians, we have been accustomed to start things “ hot and sweaty”, create a hype and eventually they do not last as long as “Miss Janey Fire”.

Hopefully though, amidst some of the misgivings and questions about the longevity of Vincy Moves, there should be that renewed energy from all the major players, to make it work.

Among the debilitating factors for certain, will be the issue of finance. Of course, sustaining Vincy Moves would need an injection of funds.

Additionally, the inter-sectoral approach, one of the pillars which Vincy Moves stands on, must be really and truly a joint venture, with all pulling their weight.

Significantly, there must be that national buy in, especially from the community level. This column would register unequivocally that in order for Vincy Moves to be successful, community involvement must be high priority.

Critically too, there has to be a widespread education component attached to the “Movement”, rather than a piecemeal individualistic dissemination of information.

In short, the narrative must be one voice, one objective, one outcome.

Also, it cannot be a “ one size fits all” undertaking, hence the many physical activities being earmarked must suffice within the scheme of things, encompassing the majority of the Vincentian population, inclusive of those who are differently able.

Hence, the promotion of our many nature trails, erecting footpaths, enacting of dog laws to protect walkers and joggers, as well as providing concessions on gym equipment, sneakers other exercise apparel, must be pencilled in as part of the holistic meaning of Vincy Moves.

Likewise, the various ministries must penetrate the schools’ nutrition programmes, appoint trained Physical Education teachers in the pre-schools and primary schools, to instil the promotion of physical activities from an early age.

Other positive derivatives of Vincy Moves, must be a reduction in our astronomical food import bill, more trimmed bodies, along with a departure of the protruding midsections which is prevalent here.
Hopefully, the full effect of Vincy Moves, must be seen within the next five -year period.

All in all, should Vincy Moves take root and began to bear fruits, then we would experience a healthier, fitter and physically literate St Vincent and the Grenadines.