Health 20 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Experts Push for Workplace Nutritionists to Combat Rising NCDs Among Office Workers
Nutrition experts in Uganda are calling on companies to hire nutritionists to oversee employee diets amid surging non-communicable diseases linked to sedentary office lifestyles and poor eating habits. They highlight the need for better food choices at work and personal steps like walking to improve health. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/employ-nutritionists-to-monitor-diets-at-workplaces-experts-urge-5397278
Nutrition professionals warn that office workers in Uganda face increasing risks of hypertension, diabetes, and obesity due to long desk hours, minimal exercise, and reliance on workplace-provided meals.
Jennifer Tumukunde, CEO of Nutrition Garage Uganda, described a typical day for corporate employees: starting with tea from home, followed by breakfast, lunch, evening tea at the office, and dinner later—all with little movement like driving to work and using escalators.
She urged firms to review foods served at meetings, events, and daily programs, and partner with nutrition groups to promote healthier options and educate staff. ‘If you employ a receptionist or HR officer, why not a nutritionist for teams of 60 to 200 people?’ Tumukunde questioned.
Moreen Doreen Atugonza, another nutritionist, noted that better adult habits could positively influence children and communities. Ahead of Uganda’s first Workplace Nutrition Summit on March 26 in Kampala, experts will gather policymakers, corporate leaders, and health pros to strategize on diets and wellness.
Globally, NCDs cause 74% of deaths, and in Uganda, 33%. The WHO lists unhealthy diets as a key driver. Workers are advised to add simple activities like 30-minute walks, stairs, or standing desks.