New York, USA , September 2025

Kenyan health advocate Ogweno Stephen joined world leaders, policymakers, and global health experts in New York for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) High-Level Meetings on Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) and Mental Health, marking a pivotal moment for global health. The 4th High-Level Meeting brought together countries to review progress, share solutions, and renew commitments to tackle the growing burden of NCDs worldwide.

Representing both Kenya and the global lived experience community, Ogweno Stephen played an active role in several key events during the week , including the Global Obesity Forum hosted by the World Obesity Federation (WOF), the Fourth Multistakeholder Gathering on NCDs and Mental Health, and the Economist Impact session on “Accelerating Action Toward SDG 3.4: Putting Obesity on the Agenda.”

Throughout the week, Ogweno emphasized the importance of integrating the voices of people living with NCDs into global policy processes. His message was clear: meaningful participation leads to more effective, equitable, and sustainable health solutions.

As a Kenyan health advocate and the founder of Stowelink Foundation, Ogweno continues to demonstrate how lived experience and innovation can transform public health responses in Africa. Through his work, he has empowered communities to better understand and prevent NCDs using digital storytelling, youth-led education, and health technology.

At UNGA, he also joined discussions on the future of people-centred primary health care, youth-driven innovation, and multi-sector collaboration for NCD prevention. His participation in high-level dialogues underscored the growing recognition of African leadership in shaping the global health agenda.

Speaking after the meetings, Ogweno Stephen reflected:

“This UNGA wasn’t just about global policy , it was about people. It was about ensuring that those most affected by NCDs have a voice in shaping the systems meant to serve them.”

As global attention turns toward the next phase of NCD and mental health action, Ogweno Stephen’s advocacy continues to spotlight Kenya’s leadership in advancing health equity, innovation, and meaningful community engagement.