New York, USA – Ogweno Stephen, a leading advocate in global health and obesity awareness, was a prominent speaker at the Global Obesity Forum held in New York. This multi-stakeholder gathering, centered around the World Health Organization’s Acceleration Plan, carried the theme, “Obesity is everyone’s business!” It kicked off on a sunny Sunday afternoon, following the WHO Walk the Talk event in Central Park, making it a critical week for global health discussions.

Ogweno Stephen brought a unique and powerful perspective to the forum, sharing his personal journey of growing up with childhood obesity. His lived experience provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by individuals grappling with obesity, emphasizing the need for greater empathy, understanding, and support for those living with non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

A key message that resonated throughout Ogweno’s presentation was the importance of meaningful involvement. He stressed that the voices and experiences of people living with NCDs must be integrated into local and global development processes. The notion that affected individuals can offer invaluable insights for designing effective solutions was a central theme in his address.

One of the standout takeaways from Ogweno’s presentation was the idea that obesity is not an isolated concern. It’s a shared responsibility that concerns every individual and community. He called on all participants to actively engage in the fight against obesity, underscoring that the battle requires a collective effort.

The Global Obesity Forum provided a platform for experts, policymakers, and advocates to discuss and drive the obesity agenda, aligning with the WHO Acceleration Plan’s objectives. Ogweno’s participation was a testament to his unwavering commitment to improving global health and addressing the critical issue of obesity.

As the forum progressed, Ogweno’s insights continued to echo, emphasizing that change begins with meaningful involvement, shared responsibility, and collaborative efforts. The fight against obesity is a shared journey, and Ogweno Stephen’s presence at the Global Obesity Forum reinforced the message that we all have a vital role to play in this global health challenge.