In September 2025, world leaders, civil society, and global health champions will gather in New York for the Fourth United Nations High-Level Meeting (HLM) on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) and Mental Health. Among the voices championing action will be Ogweno Stephen, a leading Kenyan health advocate and Director and Trustee at the World Obesity Federation, who will be pushing for stronger commitments on obesity prevention and care.

The theme of this year’s meeting is “Equity and integration: transforming lives and livelihoods through leadership and action on noncommunicable diseases and the promotion of mental health and well-being.” For Ogweno, this is a defining moment to ensure obesity—one of the world’s fastest-growing health challenges—receives the urgent attention it deserves.

Why Obesity Must Be on the Global Agenda

Obesity already affects over 1 billion people globally, contributing to nearly 4 million deaths every year. It is a key driver of 43% of diabetes cases, up to 78% of hypertension, and more than 13 types of cancer. Without urgent action, projections show that by 2050, over 4 billion people worldwide will be affected by overweight and obesity—half the world’s population.

The economic burden is equally staggering, with costs expected to reach nearly 3% of global GDP by 2030. For African countries and other low- and middle-income regions, this translates into an enormous strain on already fragile health systems.

Key Messages from the World Obesity Federation

As part of the World Obesity Federation’s advocacy work, Ogweno Stephen will be amplifying five core messages at the UN HLM:

1. Obesity is a global crisis now – It drives multiple diseases and millions of preventable deaths each year.
2. The future is at stake – Without urgent action, over 4 billion people will be affected by 2035.
3. We have proven solutions – WHO “Best Buys” and new treatments can save lives and reduce costs.
4. The HLM is our moment to act – Obesity must be recognized as a disease in the Political Declaration.
5. Political will, not individual willpower – System-wide solutions are needed, from primary healthcare integration to reducing ultra-processed foods.

Ogweno Stephen’s Advocacy Role

As a Kenyan health advocate, Ogweno Stephen brings a unique voice from the Global South, representing both the World Obesity Federation and communities in Kenya and other LMICs. His hope is that this HLM will deliver a stronger Political Declaration that commits governments to:

• Recognize obesity as a disease.
• Prioritize prevention and care within health systems.
• Place people with lived experience at the center of policymaking.
• Accelerate implementation of the WHO Global Acceleration Plan on NCDs.

Looking Ahead

For Ogweno, attending this High-Level Meeting is about more than policy—it’s about equity, dignity, and transforming lives. As he puts it, “The time for action is now. We must move from blaming individuals to building systems that support health for all.”

This September, as the world debates the future of NCDs and mental health, Ogweno Stephen will be at the forefront—championing obesity advocacy and ensuring that the voices of Africa and LMICs are heard on the global stage.