WHO Calls for Urgent Action as Diabetes Cases Rise Rapidly Across Africa

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has called on African governments to intensify efforts to address the rising cases of diabetes across the continent, warning that the disease is increasing at a rate higher than in any other region.

In a statement marking the 2025 World Diabetes Day, the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Mohamed Janabi, said shifting lifestyles, growing obesity rates, and limited access to preventive and primary healthcare were driving an “unprecedented surge” in diabetes cases.

Janabi disclosed that over 24 million adults in Africa are currently living with diabetes, with the number projected to rise to 60 million by 2050 if urgent measures are not taken. He noted that nearly half of those affected remain undiagnosed, increasing the risk of severe complications, disabilities, and preventable deaths.

He stressed the need for strengthened health systems, improved early detection, affordable treatment, and life-long care. He added that African nations had already endorsed a regional framework to support equitable diabetes management, citing Ghana and Uganda as examples of countries that have integrated diabetes and cardiovascular care into primary health services.

Janabi highlighted WHO’s PEN and PEN-Plus programmes, which are expanding access to cost-effective chronic disease treatment at primary and district healthcare levels. He further urged governments to boost health financing, improve drug supply chains, and promote healthy diets and physical activity.

“The goal is to ensure that every person living with diabetes can live a healthy and dignified life,” he said.

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