Kisii: Kisii University, in partnership with the University of Manchester and M©decins Sans Fronti¨res (MSF), is hosting a two-day conference to identify strategies for tackling non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Speaking to the press at the institution, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Administration, Planning and Finance, Prof Mzee Awuor, stated that the aim of the conference is to create awareness of NCDs and their risk factors to reduce the burden of these diseases.
According to Kenya News Agency, Prof Awuor emphasized that non-communicable diseases are often neglected, lacking the necessary discussion and funding despite their prevalence in areas of destruction and displacements. He highlighted that Kisii is one of the counties susceptible to NCDs, making the discussion crucial for devising ways to support residents diagnosed with these diseases.
Prof Awuor also mentioned that the conference would provide a platform for students from the University of Manchester to witness the impact of NCDs on individuals and communities in Kenya. He noted that this experience would help students understand the extent of the diseases’ effects on the community and contribute to improving services for affected individuals.
The acting DVC expressed concern over the low funding for NCD support programs, emphasizing the importance of financial resources in conducting research and providing necessary medication for patients. He urged academic institutions to enhance research efforts in the area of non-communicable diseases.
MSF’s representative, John Riaga, highlighted the significance of the partnership with Kisii University, particularly in research. He noted that the discussion was timely as patients managing NCDs often face additional challenges. Riaga mentioned that many individuals with NCDs incur significant costs seeking medical attention at health facilities that may lack proper medication. He disclosed that the three health facilities managed by MSF in Homabay County are insufficient to provide free medication for all NCD patients across the county.
Dr David Okinyi, Chairperson of the National NCDs Caucus and Head of NCDs in Kisii County, noted the high burden of NCDs, with a growing number of people affected by conditions such as cancer, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. He stated the government’s commitment to discussing strategies to improve funding and reduce this burden. Dr Okinyi emphasized that the Social Health Authority (SHA) would play a crucial role in alleviating the burden on NCD patients and added that Kisii County is working to increase budgetary allocations for NCDs as a step towards addressing the issue.
The discussions will also cover managing NCD patients during crises, as many were neglected during the covid-19 pandemic, Dr Okinyi highlighted.