As the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) continues to rise, local innovators are stepping up to counter the challenge through homegrown solutions. One such innovator is Stowelink Foundation, which is using board games and mobile applications to revolutionize NCD awareness and management in Kenya.
Speaking at a Health NGOs Network (HENNET) event, Stowelink founder Stephen Ogweno highlighted the need to educate the population on the growing threat of NCDs while focusing on behavior change.
“The health challenge of the 21st century is non-communicable diseases, but we are proving that prevention can be made simple, fun, and community-driven.”Ogweno said.
To address this gap, Stowelink has developed innovations that bring health information closer to communities in creative ways. From Health themed board games aimed at educating children on healthy eating habits, to Mobile applications like the NCDs 365 which is an Interactive app sharing preventive NCD tips. It has over 2800 users.
These innovations are meant to encourage healthy habits, some of them like the board games have gained traction in schools, among youth groups, and community programs, making conversations about health less intimidating and more relatable.
According to the Ministry of Health (MOH) NCDs such as Diabetes, Hypertension, Cancer now account for more than 55 per cent of all hospital admissions in the country.
“Primary health care is the frontline defense against Non-communicable diseases, because it focusses on prevention and promotion. When it comes to NCDs.” Said Ogweno. “But it also helps to do health education in the community, strengthens referral systems, and reduces the cost of hospitalization.”
Speaking at the same event Dr. Silas Agutu, Technical Advisor, Primary Healthcare at the Ministry of Health emphasized on the need to invest in Primary Healthcare to control the rising surge of Non communicable diseases.
“Primary health care is the foundation for our health system as a country. It is people centered, focusing not just on treating illnesses, the focus is on prevention and promoting health for our population as well.” He said “evidence shows that the countries that have invested in strong primary health care systems have actually achieved better health outcomes.”
Kenya has established over 250 Primary Care Networks (PCNs) across the country, they are meant to link Community Health units to facilities and creating a more efficient referral system in the hopes of achieving universal Healthcare and tackle the NCD crisis head on.
