Kenya is set to witness major improvements in diabetes prevention and management following a renewed partnership between the Ministry of Health and the World Diabetes Foundation (WDF). The collaboration aims to enhance access to quality healthcare for people living with diabetes by integrating screening, treatment, and awareness initiatives across the country.
The Ministry of Health reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the growing burden of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through sustainable and community-focused interventions. The initiative underscores the government’s strategic shift toward strengthening primary healthcare systems, ensuring that diabetes services are available closer to communities rather than being concentrated in referral hospitals.
During a consultative meeting between the Ministry of Health and the World Diabetes Foundation, key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors gathered to review progress made in diabetes care and to chart new strategies for nationwide implementation. The discussions centered on improving early detection, promoting lifestyle changes, and supporting effective disease management at the grassroots level.
The Ministry highlighted its priority of building resilient health systems that can respond to both communicable and non-communicable diseases. By integrating diabetes services into primary healthcare, the government seeks to ensure early diagnosis and continuous management, reducing the risk of complications and enhancing the quality of life for patients.
Participants at the forum emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among healthcare providers, research institutions, civil society, and international partners. Sustainable financing and the use of technology to support remote monitoring and patient education were identified as key enablers of progress. The renewed partnership is expected to mobilize additional resources and expertise to support Kenya’s National Strategy for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases.
The meeting brought together representatives from the Ministry’s Division of Cancer and Non-Communicable Diseases, Diabetes Management and Information Centre, NCD Alliance Kenya, Medtronic Labs, PATH Kenya, and the Kenya Defeat Diabetes Association. Their shared commitment to tackling diabetes highlights the growing recognition that NCDs pose a significant threat to Kenya’s public health and economic stability.
Through this strengthened partnership, Kenya is reinforcing its resolve to curb diabetes through early prevention, effective management, and community engagement—ensuring that every Kenyan has access to affordable, quality healthcare.
