In a powerful message for World Diabetes Day 2024, WHO Regional Director for Africa Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, sounded alarm on the escalating diabetes crisis in Africa, attributing it to urbanization, unhealthy diets, and physical inactivity.
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This year’s theme, “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps”, highlights the need for a united approach to address the rapid rise of this “silent killer” across the continent.
The WHO African Region has over 24 million adults living with diabetes, with projections indicating this number could surge to 54 million by 2045 the highest projected increase globally.
“Without immediate intervention, the human and economic toll of diabetes will become catastrophic,” said Dr. Moeti, noting that untreated diabetes can lead to severe complications, including heart disease, blindness, and limb amputations.
One critical challenge Dr. Moeti underscored is the region’s inadequate healthcare investment in diabetes, which stands at just 1% of health spending.
“Africa’s health systems have traditionally focused on acute infectious diseases, and we need to reorient our approach to address the chronic and growing burden of diabetes,” she emphasized.
Dr. Moeti highlighted the recent adoption of the Framework for the Implementation of the Global Diabetes Compact (GDC) in Africa during the WHO Regional Committee session, which outlines a roadmap for countries to integrate diabetes care within broader health systems.
“Our goal is to bring quality diabetes prevention, diagnosis, and care to every corner of the continent, especially at the primary healthcare level,” she said.
In her World Diabetes Day message, Dr. Moeti called on various stakeholders to play their part: “To individuals, I say, prioritize a healthy lifestyle and regular check-ups.
For communities, create supportive environments that promote healthy living and reduce stigma around diabetes. And to governments, WHO pledges its support in your efforts to improve access to essential medicines, strengthen primary health care, and invest in sustainable diabetes prevention and care.”
With myths and misconceptions still surrounding diabetes, Dr. Moeti stressed the importance of awareness and education.
“We need to break down these barriers to ensure that everyone, regardless of where they live or their financial status, has access to the care and information they need to manage diabetes effectively.”
As World Diabetes Day 2024 continues to amplify the call to “break barriers and bridge gaps,” WHO’s message underscores a commitment to tackling diabetes with urgency, collaboration, and comprehensive care to mitigate its impact across Africa.
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