At the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Dr. Andrew Mulwa, Head of NASCOP, presented Kenya’s stance on addressing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). He acknowledged the importance of the Global Coordination Mechanism in promoting a multi-sectoral response, in line with the Global Declaration supported by all 47 WHO Africa Region Member States.
“While recognizing the critical role of the Global Coordination mechanism in promoting multi-sectoral response to NCDs, Kenya supports efforts to expand engagement, enhance coordination, and strengthen regional and national impact.”
Dr. Mulwa asserted the country’s national coordination system, the NCD Interagency Coordinating Committee, guided by the National Strategic Plan. This system brings together all key stakeholders beyond the health sector to align actions, pool resources efficiently, and foster inclusivity in the fight against NCDs.
He reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to global goals to reduce NCDs with a focus on diabetes prevention, oral and mental health care, and the elimination of cervical cancer. This aligns with the global recognition of November 17th as World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day.
Kenya’s Social Health Insurance Act ensures access to comprehensive care for NCDs, which is a step to achieving universal health coverage.
