SJAK hosts second wellness medical camp for sports journalists

The Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) has hosted its second wellness medical camp in Nairobi, aimed at promoting preventive healthcare among sports journalists.

The initiative, launched two years ago by SJAK members, is gaining momentum through partnerships with LifeCare Hospitals and Holistic.

LifeCare’s Business Development Manager, Hezekiah Omondi, emphasized the importance of the partnership, noting that journalists often operate under intense pressure and tight deadlines.

“Partnering with SJAK is important because journalists work under tight deadlines and high pressure. Giving them access to preventive care helps protect the people who keep the public informed. Healthy journalists mean a stronger media,” he said.

During the camp, participants underwent a range of screenings including blood pressure, random blood sugar, prostate and breast cancer checks, as well as dental assessments, according to Nursing Manager Mary Waweru.

“It’s important to know your wellness status because things like blood sugar and blood pressure may not have signs and symptoms and the essence is to seek treatment early,” she noted.

Holistic representative William Deche said the organization supported the exercise with body composition analysis and mental health assessments, helping journalists better understand their physical and psychological wellbeing.

SJAK reaffirmed its commitment to the programme, saying the initiative will continue to expand in future.

“The health of our members is a priority. This is only the second edition and more will follow because we want every journalist to thrive on and off the beat,” the association said.

Barnaba Korir, First Deputy President of the National Olympic Committee of Kenya, lauded the initiative, noting that similar wellness programmes have proven effective for athletes.

“The camp is a good initiative that we have also adopted for athletes. If it works for athletes, it works for journalists too,” he said.