Revolutionizing NCD Care: Bold Strategies and Impactful Advocacy from #ICPPA2024

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Introduction

As the curtains draw on the 1st International Conference on PEN-Plus in Africa (ICPPA) 2024, the echoes of impassioned voices, insightful discussions, and groundbreaking revelations resonate far beyond the conference halls. This gathering, graced by high-level policymakers, healthcare professionals, people with severe NCDs, representatives from the World Health Organization, donors, and other key stakeholders, has been a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle against non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Africa. From the heartfelt stories of individuals living with NCDs to the strategic dialogues on policy and implementation, ICPPA 2024 has been a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change.

Stakeholder delegation from Zimbabwe

Day One

The first day of the conference was a dynamic exploration of pressing issues in global health, with a spotlight on the challenges and opportunities in combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly through the lens of the PEN-Plus initiative. One standout moment was Eunice Owino's impassioned presentation representing Voices for PEN-Plus, where she eloquently articulated the struggles faced by families affected by sickle cell disease. Her heartfelt account underscored the urgent need for improved access to care, heightened awareness, and an end to the stigma associated with these conditions.

Throughout the day, discussions delved into the complexities of integrating NCD service delivery at the primary healthcare (PHC) and first-level referral hospital levels. Speakers emphasized the importance of engaging stakeholders at all levels, assessing the current status of NCD services, designing effective service delivery models, and implementing initiatives in a phased manner to ensure scalability and sustainability.

The conference also highlighted the critical role of patient advocates in driving change and shaping policy. Their voices, like Eunice's, serve as powerful reminders of the human impact of NCDs and the need for holistic, patient-centered approaches to healthcare.

Day Two

On the second day of the conference, I attended several sessions, starting with the WHO Global Diabetes Compact (GDC) 3rd-anniversary session, which set the stage for the day's discussions. The session highlighted the progress made in diabetes care and management, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to improve outcomes for people living with diabetes. Key points included the importance of a comprehensive approach to diabetes care, addressing social determinants of health, and promoting patient empowerment.

Delegation from WHO GDC

Following the GDC anniversary session, I participated in sessions focusing on various aspects of diabetes care and management. These included discussions on strategies for improving access to care and the importance of community engagement. There were also sessions highlighting successful initiatives from different countries and regions, showcasing best practices in severe NCD care.

One of the highlights of the day was the panel discussion on experiences and challenges in PEN-Plus initiation and implementation. Panelists shared their experiences and highlighted the importance of teamwork, capacity building, and community engagement in implementing PEN-Plus initiatives. Challenges such as funding, supply shortages, and geographical issues were also discussed, underscoring the need for innovative solutions and collaborative efforts.

Overall, the second day of the conference provided valuable insights into the current state of diabetes care and management, highlighting both progress made and challenges faced. The sessions emphasized the importance of a holistic approach to diabetes care, focusing on prevention, early detection, and comprehensive treatment. The discussions also underscored the need for continued investment in severe NCD care and the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to achieve better outcomes for people living with severe NCDs.

Final Day

On the final day of the ICPPA 2024 Conference, discussions centered on the challenges facing ear, oral, and eye health in Africa, highlighting issues like limited access to quality care and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. I presented on the urgent need to integrate these diseases into public health programs, emphasizing comprehensive strategies. Key objectives included addressing challenges, proposing integration strategies, and emphasizing the importance of data-driven decision-making. 

Tinotenda Dzikiti as a panelist

Statistics underscored the high disease burden in Africa, emphasizing the need for urgent action. Opportunities for integration were highlighted, stressing the importance of integrating services into existing healthcare systems. Discussions on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) centered on sustainable financing, partnerships, community engagement, data-driven decision-making, and innovation. The need for increased funding, sustainable financing models, and greater investment in health systems to address the NCD burden in Africa was emphasized.

Conclusion:

As we depart from ICPPA 2024, let us carry with us the lessons learned, the connections made, and the commitments forged. Let us be the champions of change in our communities, advocating for better access to care, heightened awareness, and an end to the stigma associated with NCDs. Let us leverage the power of collective action to bring lifesaving care to children and young adults doubly burdened with severe, chronic NCDs and extreme poverty. Together, we can create a future where health is a reality for all, where no one is left behind, and where the elephant in the room—the lack of data—is confronted head-on and overcome. Let us march forward, united in purpose, determined in action, and unwavering in our commitment to a healthier, more equitable Africa.

The Voices for PEN-Plus with the NCDI Poverty Network Team

#ICPPA2024 #NCDAdvocacy #HealthEquity #GlobalHealth #PENPlusPartnership #HealthForAll #PatientAdvocacy #GlobalHealthCare #NCDPrevention #HealthPolicy

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