From 25 to 27 August 2025, Lusaka, Zambia will host the Seventy-fifth session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa—the most important annual health decision-making forum in the region. This gathering brings together African Ministers of Health, WHO leadership, and key health stakeholders to shape policies and strategies that will define the continent’s health priorities in the coming years.

Among the critical issues on the agenda is obesity and non-communicable diseases (NCDs)—a growing health crisis in Africa. Ogweno Stephen, a Kenyan health advocate and Director and Trustee at the World Obesity Federation, will be attending this meeting, representing not only the Federation but also the voices of people living with obesity across Kenya and other low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Why This Meeting Matters for Obesity in Africa

Obesity is often misunderstood as a “Western problem,” but the data paints a different picture. According to WHO, obesity rates in Africa have nearly doubled in the past two decades. Rapid urbanization, shifting diets, limited physical activity spaces, and the aggressive marketing of unhealthy foods are driving obesity prevalence higher, particularly among young people and women.

The burden of obesity goes far beyond body weight—it fuels the rising cases of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancers, and other NCDs, which are now among the leading causes of death in the region. Without urgent and coordinated action, Africa risks facing a double burden of malnutrition—undernutrition on one hand, and obesity and diet-related diseases on the other.

Ogweno Stephen’s Role and Vision

As a Kenyan health advocate with years of experience in NCD prevention, research, and policy, Ogweno Stephen brings a unique perspective to the discussions in Lusaka. Through his leadership at the World Obesity Federation, and his advocacy work in Kenya and across Africa, he has consistently championed:

• Stronger policies to prevent childhood obesity.
• Improved access to treatment and care for people living with obesity.
• Research and data-driven approaches to guide interventions.
• Greater recognition of obesity as a public health priority in LMICs.

Reflecting on the upcoming session, Ogweno emphasized that “this meeting is a historic moment to ensure obesity is no longer overlooked in Africa’s health agenda. It is time to treat obesity with the urgency it deserves—through prevention, policy, and care.”

What He Hopes to Achieve

At the WHO Regional Committee meeting, Ogweno Stephen hopes to:

• Amplify the voices of people living with obesity, ensuring their lived experiences shape policies.
• Push for stronger regional commitments on obesity prevention and NCD care, tailored to Africa’s realities.
• Strengthen partnerships between governments, civil society, and global health organizations.
• Highlight Kenya’s leadership and innovative approaches in tackling obesity and NCDs.

Moving Forward

The Seventy-fifth WHO Regional Committee for Africa is more than a policy meeting—it is an opportunity to set the direction for Africa’s health systems for years to come. With obesity emerging as one of the continent’s fastest-growing health challenges, champions like Ogweno Stephen are playing a crucial role in ensuring the issue is given the prominence it demands.

As a Kenyan health advocate and global leader in obesity advocacy, Ogweno’s participation is not just about representing the World Obesity Federation, but about ensuring Africa’s people—especially those in low- and middle-income countries—are not left behind in the fight against obesity and related diseases.