Advocating for Stronger NCD Policies Through Law and Data

On February 13, Ogweno Stephen participated in a high-impact panel discussion on the role of law and data in implementing the NCD Best Buys. The session explored how regulatory frameworks and data-driven advocacy can support the fight against non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This insightful panel featured case studies from Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, demonstrating how legal interventions are driving progress in tobacco control, alcohol regulation, and unhealthy food policies.

About the Panel

The NCD Best Buys are a set of cost-effective, evidence-based interventions designed to reduce the four key risk factors of NCDs: tobacco use, harmful alcohol consumption, unhealthy diets, and physical inactivity. Many of these interventions require strong legal and regulatory frameworks for effective implementation.

The panel discussion featured alumni from the McCabe Centre for Law and Cancer Legal Training Program, who shared their experiences on advancing NCD policies in East Africa. It also showcased the impact of data-driven advocacy, highlighting how six tobacco control dashboards developed by the Tobacco Control Data Initiative (TCDI) are empowering policymakers and NCD stakeholders in Kenya, Ethiopia, Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, and South Africa to make informed decisions.

Ogweno Stephen’s Key Contributions

Ogweno Stephen, a renowned NCDs advocate from Kenya, emphasized the importance of lived experience in shaping effective health policies. Representing the Stowelink Foundation, Ogweno highlighted how policy advocacy must integrate the voices of those directly affected by NCDs. He shared some of Stowelink’s key advocacy priorities:

1. Youth Participation in Policy Development

Stowelink advocates for the active involvement of young people in developing policies, initiatives, and programs that impact their health. Ensuring their voices are heard in decision-making processes leads to more effective and inclusive health policies.

2. Access to Early Diagnostic Services for Chronic Diseases

Early detection is critical in managing NCDs. Stowelink is pushing for annual diagnostic services to be covered by national health insurance funds, making screening for chronic diseases more accessible and affordable.

3. Front-of-Pack Labeling and Restrictions on Unhealthy Food Advertisements

Stowelink advocates for clear front-of-pack labeling on food products to empower consumers with accurate nutritional information. Additionally, they call for stricter regulations on advertisements targeting children and young people, reducing their exposure to unhealthy food marketing.

4. Elimination of Trans Fatty Acids (TFAs) in Food Products

Trans fats are a major contributor to cardiovascular diseases. Stowelink is actively lobbying for the removal of trans fatty acids from food products and urging governments to promote healthier food alternatives.

5. Stronger Tobacco and Alcohol Control Policies

Stowelink supports higher taxation, stricter advertising restrictions, and stronger regulatory measures to curb tobacco and alcohol consumption. These measures are essential for reducing the burden of NCDs linked to smoking and excessive alcohol use.

Transforming Policy into Practice

During the panel, Ogweno Stephen shared some of Stowelink Foundation’s advocacy successes, showcasing how grassroots movements can influence national health policies. By centering lived experience in policy discussions, Stowelink is making significant strides in ensuring that NCD policies are not just developed but effectively implemented.

The discussion reinforced the need for collaboration among policymakers, legal experts, and health advocates to drive the adoption of the NCD Best Buys. Ogweno’s insights underscored the power of data, legal action, and community engagement in transforming health policies for a healthier future in Kenya and beyond.

Join the Movement for NCD Advocacy

As the fight against NCDs continues, organizations like Stowelink Foundation and advocates like Ogweno Stephen are leading the way. By leveraging law and data, we can create stronger policies that improve health outcomes. Stay connected with Ogweno Stephen for more updates on NCDs advocacy, health policies, and innovative solutions to combat chronic diseases.