Morocco ranks ninth among African countries with the highest adult obesity rates, according to a new classification published by The African Exponent.
The report said 13.79% of Moroccan adults are obese this year, with the highest increases recorded in cities such as Casablanca, Rabat and Marrakech. Changing diets, more sedentary office jobs, and the rise of fast and processed foods are driving the trend.
Obesity has fueled rising cases of diabetes and hypertension in Morocco, the platform noted, with women affected at twice the rate of men. Cultural views of body image and limited access to safe spaces for physical activity play a role.
Morocco has launched nutrition awareness campaigns, promoted physical activity, improved school meals and encouraged traditional diets as part of its response.
Egypt topped the African list with 32.48%, followed by Libya at more than 28% and Seychelles at 20.58%. Tunisia ranked fourth with 19.92%, while Algeria came sixth with 16.03%. Other countries in the top 10 included South Africa, Mauritius and Papua New Guinea.
The report said obesity is rising faster in African cities than rural areas, reflecting the impact of urban diets, transport systems and lifestyles. It warned that obesity is emerging as one of Africa’s fastest-growing health challenges, cutting across income levels and affecting both adults and children.
Governments are responding with measures such as taxes on sugary drinks, stricter regulation of school meals, and efforts to revive traditional African foods for their nutritional value.
add your comment
Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.