HOMA BAY – In Homa Bay County, a group of caregivers has launched an advocacy effort for better governmental focus on non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The group, known as the Homa Bay Non-Communicable Diseases Advocacy Chapter, is pushing for the county government to dedicate sufficient funds to battle these diseases.
According to Kenya News Agency, during a statement made in Homa Bay town today, the chapter is concerned with the long-term impact of NCDs, which often require extensive treatment and care. She highlighted that these conditions are frequently overlooked because they are not seen as requiring immediate action. To address this issue, the group, in collaboration with NCD’s Alliance Kenya, has initiated a project to map sickle cell patients within the county.
Kwamboka emphasized the need for a shift in perception towards NCDs, advocating for them to be treated with the same urgency as other health issues. “NCDs are serious, but often not seen as requiring urgent attention. We need to change this perception,” she stated. She proposed that the county allocate specific funds in its budget to improve access to medications and raise awareness about NCDs.
The planned funding is intended for equipping local health facilities with necessary drugs and staff, aiming to reduce the travel costs for patients seeking care. Kwamboka called on the county government to ensure adequate budgetary allocation for NCDs to support health services at nearby centers and dispensaries.
Teresa Odero, the coordinator, also spoke on the need for policy adjustments, pointing out that many health facilities lack essential medications for managing NCDs. “It’s common to find patients suffering from NCDs without access to necessary drugs in their local health facilities,” Odero noted.
Deputy Chairperson Gordon Ayata advocated for increased awareness and prevention efforts, stressing that many NCDs stem from unhealthy lifestyles. “There is a crucial need for our policymakers and health promotion organizations to invest in sensitization to prevent these diseases,” Ayata commented.