Stakeholder perspectives on surveillance of physical activity and monitoring and evaluation of interventions in Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND

Promoting physical activity (PA) has been one of the key strategic priorities in Saudi Arabia. At the population level, policies targeting PA can potentially enhance health and well-being. One of the objectives of the Quality-of-Life Program within the Saudi Vision 2030 is to increase public participation in sports and PA. The present paper describes the outcomes of a participatory workshop focusing on stakeholder perceptions of the current state of surveillance of PA and monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of PA programs and initiatives.

METHODS

A workshop was organized fostering a discussion between 29 key attendees from 8 different government entities and other organizations representing the policymakers, researchers, planners, and implementers of programs that focus on promoting or evaluating PA. Stakeholder perceptions on the current state of M&E and surveillance of PA were gathered. A list of actions generated from the identified gaps in the established programs was created, and areas of opportunities for collaboration were identified.

RESULTS

The stakeholder discussion highlighted key themes related to PA surveillance, M&E, including the perceived strengths and challenges and the key priority actions to address the gaps. Additional important steps include creating a national strategy and action plan for PA, with M&E framework that comprises key goals, targets, indicators, unified data collection methods, and guidance on ensuring coordinated and wide dissemination.

CONCLUSION

M&E of PA in Saudi Arabia requires a multi-stakeholder, multi-sectoral approach, facilitated by creating a specialized governance and leadership committee. Some recommendations include establishing a multi-sectoral structure to lead PA in Saudi Arabia and developing mechanisms for sharing experiences and knowledge. Policymakers need to embrace such an agenda and advance discussions on the scope and structure of M&E and surveillance systems for PA.