During the UN General Assembly (UNGA) side event, Kenya called for stronger global action to address oral health as a significant factor in the fight against non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The event, hosted by Colgate-Palmolive at Tavern on the Green in New York, gathered global leaders to evaluate progress in oral health and identify interventions to improve global population health.
Representing Kenya, Dr. Ouma Oluga, the Principal Secretary for Medical Services, emphasized the country’s commitment to combating NCDs through integrated, equitable healthcare strategies. He highlighted the alarming fact that nearly half of the world’s population suffers from oral diseases, many of which are closely connected to chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Dr. Oluga stressed the importance of elevating oral health within the global NCD agenda to reduce the broader health impact on societies worldwide.
Kenya’s achievements in oral health policy and initiatives were showcased at the event, including the National Oral Health Policy (2022–2030) and the National Oral Health Strategic Plan. These frameworks aim to integrate oral health into the country’s larger health reforms, ensuring that oral hygiene and disease prevention are part of the national health dialogue. Furthermore, the inclusion of an oral health module in Kenya’s 2025 National STEP Survey and the integration of oral health education into community health training were noted as key steps in advancing the country’s health outcomes.
A significant highlight was the success of the “Bright Smiles, Bright Futures” program, which has already reached over 15 million children across Kenya, teaching them the importance of good oral hygiene. Dr. Oluga also emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration, pointing out that oral health intersects with other sectors, including education, agriculture, and finance. He urged the global community to adopt policies that acknowledge the strategic role oral health plays in reducing the overall burden of NCDs.
The event was attended by key figures such as Anil Soni, CEO of the WHO Foundation; Janti Soeripto, President and CEO of Save the Children US; and Dr. Maria Ryan, Chief Clinical Officer at Colgate-Palmolive, all of whom underscored the importance of global cooperation in tackling oral health challenges.
