We collected data from 1,122 adults living in six regions of Ghana recruited using a multi-stage sampling technique.  A proportionate sampling of rural/urban areas and random selection of households and individuals within each cluster were invited to take part.  Data were collected using a researcher-developed structured questionnaire, administered to participants using Kobo Toolbox.

A large percentage of participants were not meeting the guidance for physical activity each week. Participants expressed a strong preference for physical activity interventions to be delivered through social media channels, by healthcare professionals during consultations and in places of worship.  These settings should be prioritised for promoting physical activity in Ghana to reduce rates of chromic diseases.

Findings highlight the importance of leveraging social media, health care consultations and places of worship as settings for promoting physical activity in Ghana.

What next?

Research needs to focus on implementing interventions to promote physical activity in Ghana.

Citation details

Boateng D, Osei-Kwasi H, Addo P, Mogre V, Assasie E, Boakye K, Zakariah-Akoto S, Ojwang A, Adjei MYB, Akparibo R, Agbozo F, Abu BAZ, Amenyah SD, Singh A, Kushitor SB, Asante M, Aryeetey R, Levy AR, Daley AJ. Being active in Ghana: facilitators, barriers and preferences for being physically active in community settings among Ghanaian adults. BMJ Public Health. 2026. doi: 10.1136/bmjph-2025-002680.