State urged to prioritize creation of children’s play parks
Written by Millennium on March 18, 2019
SUN REPORTER writes
@SunZambian
CHILDREN should not be doing exercises on the road; it’s dangerous for their road safety, the Road Safety Trust (ZRST) has said.
The road safety NGO also stated that it would be better and healthier for the general population, if more playgrounds were built than shopping malls.
In a statement to the media ZRST Chairman, Daniel Mwamba, has advised government that what this country needs now are playgrounds and recreational areas instead of shopping malls.
He was reacting to media reports that Kalulushi Municipal Council has concluded negotiations with “Turbo Agencies and Unity Garments” for the construction of two shopping malls in Kalulushi and Chambishi.
Kalulushi Shopping Mall would be constructed at Patterson opposite Mine Club while the Chambishi shopping Mall would be next to its council offices.
But Mwamba says, “The ZRST is seriously saddened by this new development. The place identified for these two shopping malls is better suited for recreation and conservation for the public benefit.”
He advised Kalulushi Municipal Council to rethink its plans for construction of the two shopping malls and urges all relevant government authorities – the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Local Government to halt the pattern of constructing shopping malls on land which should be recreational playgrounds.
“I think it’s safe to say that shopping malls are dominating every city and major town in this country, and yet more are still being constructed, replacing every designated playground. People are always walking in the malls but they don’t always buy. So why not build parks for people to exercise in and do their walking?” he said.
Mr. Mwamba observed that playgrounds are a great way to encourage physical activity and sustain healthy lifestyles because even a small and inexpensive park provides great opportunities for exercise, away from dangers of cars.
“Playgrounds create an opportunity for children to enjoy themselves and interact especially when they return from school. They will encourage everyone to stay outside and enjoy the fresh air. It would also motivate everyone to exercise and stay healthy,” he said.
Mr. Mwamba further said that “playgrounds are also a powerful prescription to combat chronic diseases. We’ve got an epidemic of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) on our hands: diabetes and asthma and heart attack and stroke.”
