December 2025 — In a landmark recognition of visionary leadership and impact, Ogweno Stephen, a leading Kenyan health advocate and the CEO of Stowelink Foundation, has been awarded the prestigious title of UHC Champion of the Year 2025. The honor was bestowed by the Global UHC2030 Coalition on Universal Health Coverage Day, cementing Ogweno’s status as a global authority on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and health equity.

This award not only celebrates Ogweno’s personal journey from a childhood obesity survivor to a global change-maker but also highlights the critical role of youth-led advocacy in achieving Health for All across Africa.

https://www.universalhealthcoverageday.org/uhc-champions/2025-uhc-champion-ogweno-stephen/

A Legacy of Impact: Transforming Health Systems in Kenya

As a leading Kenyan health advocate, Ogweno Stephen has spent the last decade tirelessly working to bridge the gap between policy and people. Through the Stowelink Foundation, he has spearheaded nationwide NCD prevention programs that have reached over 7 million people across 10 countries in sub-Saharan Africa.

The UHC2030 Coalition cited his specific ability to reduce the “future financial strain of chronic diseases” as a key factor in his recognition. By focusing on preventative care and health literacy, Ogweno is helping millions avoid the catastrophic out-of-pocket spending that drives families into poverty.

Key Policy Victories in 2025

Ogweno’s advocacy goes beyond awareness—it drives legislative change. His direct engagement with county and national governments has delivered tangible results:

• Vihiga County Budget Win: Successfully advocated for an increase in the NCD budget from 3% in 2021 to 8% in 2022, setting a precedent for county-level health financing.
• Nutrient Profile Model Adoption: After years of persistent advocacy starting in 2021, Ogweno championed the successful adoption of Kenya’s new Nutrient Profile Model in 2025. This policy is a game-changer for nutrition labeling and public health safety.

A Global Voice for NCD Prevention

Ogweno Stephen’s influence extends far beyond Kenya. As a UHC Champion, he represents the African continent on the world’s most influential health stages. He currently holds high-level advisory roles that shape the future of global health:

• WHO Global Coordinating Mechanism: Serving on the NCD Labs committee to drive innovation in chronic disease management.
• WHO Guideline Development Group: A vital voice in the development of guidelines for GLP-1 obesity medications, ensuring equity and access for patients in low-to-middle-income countries.
• Global Media Presence: Recently featured on France24 and at the UN High-Level Meeting on NCDs, Ogweno continues to amplify the “ticking time bomb” of obesity in Africa.

Why This Matters for Universal Health Coverage

The recognition of Ogweno Stephen as a UHC Champion sends a powerful message: NCD prevention is central to Universal Health Coverage.

“We cannot achieve health for all if we do not address the rising burden of NCDs,” Ogweno stated during his acceptance. “This award is for every young person in Kenya working to ensure that where you live does not determine if you live.”

Partner with a Leading Health Advocate

Ogweno Stephen continues to lead the charge in NCD prevention in Kenya and global health innovation. Whether through speaking engagements, policy consultancy, or the impactful programs at Stowelink Foundation, his work is redefining what is possible in public health.