In Jinja, Uganda, a group of elderly women, affectionately called “cricket grannies,” are changing the way we think about aging and health. Every week, these vibrant women gather to play cricket, mixing fitness with fun. Their ages range from 50 to 90, and they come dressed in long dresses, often barefoot, ready to swing cricket bats and laugh together.
This initiative started in 2025 with just a handful of women but has since grown to over a hundred participants. Originally aimed at children, the program was adapted when coach Aaron Kusasira noticed the adult caregivers were eager to learn the game, too. Now, they jog, stretch, and cheer each other on, turning practice into a community celebration.
Jennifer, 72, shared, “The exercises have helped my legs. I used to feel pain, but not anymore.” Such transformations highlight the program’s impact. Another participant, Patriciah, explained the joy of camaraderie, saying, “At home, I’m alone. Here, I talk with friends about our lives.”
Physical activity like this is crucial, especially for women. According to the World Health Organization, inactivity is a top risk factor for diseases that can affect older adults. Recent statistics show that sedentary lifestyles cost global health systems about $27 billion each year. Programs like this one could help flip that trend.
Beyond fitness, the weekly meets are a boost to mental health. Sharing stories and offering support helps everyone feel lighter and more connected. Coach Kusasira sees the happiness in their faces, knowing he is making a difference in their lives and the children’s, too.
Such community programs demonstrate how sport can bridge generations and promote health. As these women continue to swing their cricket bats, they aren’t just playing a game; they are redefining what it means to age gracefully and live actively.
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