Strengthening Collaboration for Sickle Cell Care

Kenyan health advocate Ogweno Stephen recently participated in planning meetings for the upcoming 3rd Global Sickle Cell Disease Conference, scheduled to take place in Nairobi from May 8 to May 10.

The conference will bring together researchers, clinicians, advocates, policymakers, and community leaders working to improve care and outcomes for people living with sickle cell disease. The theme for this year’s event is Global Standards Local Impact: Advancing Sickle Cell Care Across Systems and Communities.

The meeting focused on building strategies that will ensure the conference delivers meaningful outcomes for both global and local stakeholders.

Representing Stowelink Foundation

During the planning session, Stephen represented Stowelink Foundation, the organization he founded to address the growing burden of non communicable diseases through advocacy, innovation, and community engagement.

His participation reflected the foundation’s commitment to strengthening health systems and supporting communities affected by chronic conditions.

While Stowelink’s work has largely focused on conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer, the organization continues to engage in broader conversations about health equity and patient centered care.

Planning for Impact Before and After the Conference

The planning discussions focused on activities before, during, and after the conference. Participants explored strategies for pre conference engagement, conference programming, and post conference collaborations that will help translate discussions into concrete actions.

One of the goals of the conference is to ensure that global expertise can translate into practical improvements in care across African health systems.

For Stephen, participating in the planning process is consistent with his broader work in public health advocacy and health system strengthening.

Building Momentum for Better Care

Sickle cell disease remains one of the most significant inherited blood disorders affecting communities across Africa. Conferences like this provide an important platform to connect global research with community needs and policy action.

By bringing together experts and advocates, the Nairobi conference aims to accelerate progress toward better diagnosis, treatment, and long term care for patients.

Stephen’s involvement highlights the growing role of Kenyan health advocates in shaping regional and global health conversations.