From 25 to 27 August 2025, Lusaka, Zambia will host the Seventy-fifth Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa, the region’s highest-level annual health policymaking forum. This meeting brings together African Ministers of Health, WHO leadership, and key stakeholders to shape the continent’s future health agenda.

One of the key priorities under discussion is obesity and the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs)—a public health challenge that has reached critical levels across Africa. Representing the World Obesity Federation and Stowelink Foundation, Ogweno Stephen will participate in the deliberations to advocate for stronger regional action and policy alignment on obesity prevention and management.

Why This Discussion Matters

Once viewed as a “Western issue,” obesity is now a rapidly growing concern in Africa. According to WHO, obesity rates in the region have nearly doubled in the last two decades, driven by urbanization, changing diets, reduced physical activity, and aggressive marketing of unhealthy foods.

The consequences are far-reaching. Obesity increases the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and other NCDs, which are now among Africa’s top causes of death. Without timely intervention, the continent faces the dual threat of undernutrition and obesity—a health paradox that requires urgent policy attention.

Stowelink Foundation’s Commitment to the Fight Against Obesity

Through its advocacy, research, and youth-led health education programs, Stowelink Foundation has consistently worked to:

• Promote policies for childhood obesity prevention and nutrition awareness.
• Support community-based education on NCD risk factors.
• Encourage data-driven public health strategies to inform policymaking.
• Advance youth leadership and lived experience engagement in NCD response.

At the WHO Regional Committee meeting, Stowelink Foundation aims to amplify the voices of communities affected by obesity, foster Africa–global partnerships, and position obesity as a central health and development issue.

Looking Ahead

The WHO Africa Regional Committee is more than a meeting—it represents a strategic opportunity to set the tone for how Africa tackles its most pressing health priorities. With obesity emerging as one of the fastest-growing NCDs in the region, Stowelink Foundation continues to lead conversations, build capacity, and drive collaborative action that ensures health equity and inclusivity remain at the heart of Africa’s public health agenda.