CS Nakhumicha Urges Immediate Action Against Diabetes Epidemic at World Diabetes Day Event

𝐄𝐥𝐠𝐞𝐲𝐨 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐤𝐰𝐞𝐭, 𝐊𝐞𝐧𝐲𝐚 - 𝟏𝟒𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑 - Kenya's Health Cabinet Secretary, Nakhumicha S. Wafula, emphasized the critical need to address the diabetes epidemic during the World Diabetes Day event at Iten County Referral Hospital. With an estimated 4% of Kenyans affected and only 40% receiving treatment, the CS highlighted the urgency of raising awareness and improving healthcare accessibility.

The event, aligned with the theme 'Enhance Access to Diabetes Care,' reflects Kenya's ongoing healthcare reforms, striving for quality and affordable care for all citizens. CS Nakhumicha stressed the importance of adopting healthy lifestyles, including balanced diets, regular exercise, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption.

Partnering with organizations like Novo Nordisk and Roche Diabetes, the Ministry has made significant progress, establishing six diabetes centers, implementing clinical guidelines, and conducting training for healthcare providers. Community health promoters equipped with screening tools play a vital role in grassroots communities, aligning with the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) framework.

A pivotal moment occurred with the official launch of a groundbreaking project: integrating diabetes and hypertension into primary healthcare. The CS expressed gratitude to the World Diabetes Foundation for their crucial four-year grant, driving this initiative across 35 counties.

This launch marks a comprehensive approach to diabetes care, emphasizing prevention, screening, and management, representing a significant stride in Kenya's fight against diabetes.