Kenya is facing a growing epidemic: non‑communicable diseases now account for nearly 40% of all deaths—a dramatic shift from past decades when infectious diseases dominated. Alarmingly, half of hospital admissions and more than 40–55% of hospital deaths are now due to NCD

Major Illnesses at the Heart of the Problem

• Hypertension (high blood pressure): Affects roughly one in four adults in Kenya, yet remains widely undiagnosed and untreated. It contributes to 25% of admissions and 13% of deaths
• Diabetes: Around 3–4% of adults are living with diagnosed diabetes, but the true number is likely higher due to gaps in screening
• Cancer and other chronic diseases: Including lung conditions, cancers, epilepsy, and more—particularly increasing among younger Kenyans

The reasons why these rates are climbing include:

Lifestyle and Urbanization – Diet shifts from traditional foods to high‑salt, high‑sugar processed meals. Sedentary habits are rising—extended screen time, reduced movement, and urban occupations dominate. Alcohol and tobacco use among youth are increasing risk behaviors

Obesity and Cultural Norms – Today, 13% of Kenyan adults are obese, despite widespread food insecurity. Obesity is now recognized as a major driver of diabetes and hypertension.

Environmental Risks – Indoor air pollution from biomass cooking fuels has contributed to respiratory NCDs, with over 19 million respiratory disease cases reported last year.

Non-Communicable Diseases significantly reduce national productivity and burden families with catastrophic medical costs. The healthcare system is at risk of overload: NCDs currently occupy half of hospital resources, crowding out other services. Kenya’s NCD response is chronically under‑funded. While analysts recommend ~KES 1,500 per person annually for prevention and treatment, the 2025–26 national budget allocated only KSh 2.2 billion for NCDs—less than 10% of what’s required.

Kenya has implemented a nutrient profile model and intends front-of-pack warning labels for unhealthy packaged foods; over 90% of products would require warnings under new rules. Tobacco and alcohol acts are in place, but enforcement remains weak due to corporate influence and limited resources. The National Strategic Plan for the Prevention and Control of NCDs (2021–2026) emphasizes integration into primary health care, schools, HIV/TB programs, and community services.

Significant funding increases and transparent use of tobacco/emergency funds are urgent. Without resources, policy remains unenforced and lives are lost.

Governments must enforce food and tobacco regulations instead of bowing to corporate pressure. Public education must counter harmful cultural perceptions—like obesity as a symbol of wealth—while promoting environments that support healthy living. To combat NCDs effectively, a multi-sectoral approach combining health, education, agriculture, finance, and community groups is essential.

Kenya is at a critical crossroads. NCDs are no longer distant threats—they now cause nearly 40% of deaths and consume half of hospital resources. Most of these diseases are preventable through lifestyle changes, regulation, early detection, and community-level interventions. But reversing this trend requires bold funding, firm policy enforcement, and shared responsibility across sectors and society.

 

By Barasa Saenyi