Young Leaders with Diabetes (YLD) Advocacy Camp, IDF Africa

Under the guidance of Prof. Naby Balde (Regional Chair, IDF Africa), Prof. Abdurazak (President, Ethiopia Diabetes Association), and DR Joel Dipesalema (President, Diabetes Association of Botswana), the YLD Advocacy Camp on the fight against Diabetes in Africa took place at Magnolia Hotel & Conference Centre, Addis Ababa, from 28th September 2019 to 2nd October 2019. The meeting hosted 36 participants from Anglophone countries, including Gambia, Botswana, Nigeria, Ghana, Rwanda, Lesotho, South Africa, Swaziland, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Sudan, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. This aligns with the International Diabetes Federation (IDF)'s vision of a world without diabetes.

For years, IDF has convened global diabetes communities in congress meetings addressing diverse diabetic issues. Diabetes, causing blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, stroke, and limb amputation, has witnessed a surge in cases globally. The World Health Organization reports a rise from 108 million in 1980 to 422 million in 2014, projecting an increase in global prevalence from 4.7% in 1980 to 8.5% in 2014.

In 2016, an estimated 1.6 million deaths were directly attributed to diabetes, with Africa reporting the highest proportion of deaths (75-78%) before the age of 60, raising serious concerns. The World Bank predicts a rise in global diabetes prevalence to 3.5% by 2030. The World Diabetic Day on 14 November serves as a platform for advocacy and global action against diabetes.

Effective hypoglycemia management is paramount for individuals with diabetes. Adopting preventive measures, maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and blood sugar control within target ranges are essential. The YLD Advocacy Camp emphasized these aspects, recognizing the impact of diabetes on global health.

The imperative role of social media in diabetes awareness campaigns was highlighted, leveraging Africa's increasing internet penetration. Challenges, such as diverse opinions and negative feedback, were acknowledged, emphasizing the need for leaders to respond politely, fostering citizen engagement. The IDF encourages young leaders to be role models and advocates in the fight against diabetes, exemplified by leaders like Theresa May, who managed Type 1 diabetes.

Advocacy emerges as a vital element, urging government ministries, especially health ministries, and associations to formulate policies, programs, and regulations to stay ahead of diabetes challenges. The YLD camp, a transformative experience, addressed various aspects, including proposal acceptance, sick day management, and impactful advocacy. As the Ambassador for Zimbabwe Diabetes Association (ZDA), my commitment is to advocate fervently in support of IDF's initiative, contributing to the fight against diabetes.

In the relentless battle against diabetes, we stand united as ambassadors for change. The YLD Advocacy Camp in Addis Ababa has armed us with knowledge, fueling our commitment to eradicate this global menace. As we step forward, let our actions resonate louder than words, advocating not just for ourselves but for generations to come. Together, we forge a path toward a world free from the shackles of diabetes, where health triumphs and hope prevails. The echoes of the YLD Advocacy Camp linger, challenging us to question, reflect, and envision a future without the burdens of diabetes. Each statistic shared, every life touched, reverberates through our collective consciousness. Let this be the catalyst for introspection and innovation. Beyond advocacy, let us ponder how our individual actions can redefine the narrative of diabetes—one decision, one initiative at a time. The path to change begins with a thought, a choice, and a shared commitment to a world where diabetes holds no dominion.

Motto: #ONE DISEASE, #ONE WORLD, #ONE SYMBOL #UNITE FOR DIABETES👌