NAIROBI – Kenya has taken a major step in transforming its health sector with the launch of the country’s first-ever national conference dedicated to addressing Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), bringing together experts, policymakers and patient advocates to shape long-term solutions to one of the nation’s fastest-growing health challenges.
The two-day meeting, held in Nairobi, convened community health volunteers (CHVs), medical professionals, researchers, development partners, civil society and representatives from the private sector to deliberate on the rising burden of NCDs such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease and chronic respiratory illnesses.
The landmark forum—described by organisers as the most comprehensive national dialogue on NCDs ever held in Kenya—focused on prevention, early detection, treatment, financing and the strengthening of health systems to reduce both mortality and catastrophic out-of-pocket expenditure by patients.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Olunga said NCDs now account for more than 62% of household medical expenses, 43% of hospital admissions, and nearly one-third of all annual deaths in Kenya.
He emphasized the necessity of integrating NCD care fully into primary health settings and community-level services while leveraging digital systems to generate real-time data for decision-making.
“This conference marks a milestone in how we address NCDs,” the PS said. “It is an opportunity to protect and restore health in Kenya. While Kenyans seek financial solutions to access healthcare, we must prioritise healthier lifestyles, regular screening and improved access to essential medicines.”
Experts at the forum noted with concern that Kenya’s NCD burden is being driven by rapid urbanisation, sedentary living, unhealthy diets, tobacco use and alcohol abuse. They stressed that a national response must be multi-sectoral, involving government ministries beyond health, including education, agriculture, sports and finance, as well as county governments and non-state partners.
The Kenya NCD Alliance raised alarms over widespread late diagnosis, noting that most patients only seek medical care after conditions are advanced. The alliance called for increased public awareness campaigns, stronger national health data systems and expanded research investment to guide interventions.
Patient groups delivered emotional testimonies illustrating the heavy socioeconomic cost of living with chronic illness, particularly for low-income families who face ongoing financial struggles due to repeated hospital visits and long-term treatment needs. Many welcomed the event as the first meaningful national platform where patient voices were acknowledged in policy development.
A major highlight of the conference was the launch of the 10+ National Operational Plan for Severe NCDs in Children and Young Adults, outlining priority commitments such as:
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Accelerating prevention and early screening
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Expanding universal health coverage to include stronger NCD benefit packages
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Increasing access to diagnostic and treatment services
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Adopting digital innovations to track patients and improve quality of care
Organisers and delegates expressed optimism that the outcomes of the inaugural event will build momentum for a more coordinated national response and inform future health financing reforms.
The conference signals Kenya’s renewed resolve to confront the growing NCD epidemic through evidence-based policies, stronger partnerships and a more patient-centred approach to healthcare—laying the foundation for healthier generations in years to come.
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