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RADA’s Health Initiative Reaches 10,000+ Community Members

Our comprehensive health program has successfully provided screenings, education, and support to over 10,000 individuals across rural communities, marking a significant milestone in our mission to improve community health outcomes.

Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials” A Call to Action for Cameroon

“Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials” A Call to Action for Cameroon

By Nange Hezelle and Ali Patience

Human Rights Day Feature Image

December 10 marks the International Day of Human Rights, a moment to reaffirm our commitment to fundamental freedoms that belong to every person. This year’s theme, "Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials", resonates with the undeniable reality of the global challenges. It is a powerful reminder that human rights are not abstract ideals reserved for grand declarations, but rather fundamental necessities that underpin our daily existence – the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the security we crave. For Cameroon, a nation navigating complex political landscapes and persistent human rights challenges, this theme is not just relevant but an urgent call to action for all.

The theme "Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials" often highlights the contrast between aspirations and realities in Cameroon. While the nation strives for progress in its political, economic and social life, many of its citizens face daily struggles for basic rights. The upcoming 2025 local and parliamentary elections are keenly watched for their ability to deliver on the promise of inclusive governance. The right to participate in one's own government, to have one's voice heard and respected, is an everyday essential for any functioning democracy. When this right is compromised, or when the mechanisms for its exercise are perceived as exclusive, the very fabric of community trust begins to wear out. Ensuring transparency, fairness, and genuine representation in these electoral processes is not merely a political undertaking, but a fundamental human right essential for the well-being of every Cameroonian.

“When the right to safety, dignity, and participation is denied, the foundations of peace and community cohesion begin to collapse.”

The devastating Anglophone Armed Conflict tragically underscores how the denial of everyday essential human rights can lead to widespread suffering. For the communities enduring the conflict in the Northwest and Southwest regions, basic rights and necessities like safety, freedom from fear, and access to essential services have been brutally stripped away. This theme, "Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials," brings attention to the daily injustices that civilians face, the right to life, which is restricted by violence; the right to physical integrity, which is infringed by assaults and mistreatment; the right to security, which is destroyed by fear and displacement; and the right to a dignified life, which is compromised by the devastation of infrastructure and means of subsistence.

The interconnectedness of human rights is undeniable. The right to education is an everyday essential for our children's futures. The right to healthcare is crucial for the well-being of our families. The right to a fair trial is vital for justice. The right to express oneself freely, without fear of reprisal, is the bedrock of a vibrant society. In Cameroon, ensuring these rights are not just on paper but actively realized in the daily lives of all citizens is the paramount challenge. It requires constant vigilance, unwavering advocacy, and a collective commitment from government, civil society, and every individual.

This International Human Rights Day, let us move beyond abstract pronouncements and recognize the tangible impact of human rights on our daily lives. For Cameroon, this means relentlessly pursuing peace, fostering inclusive governance, and holding accountable those who perpetrate violations. Let us commit to building a Cameroon where human rights are not a distant ideal, but the very foundation of our everyday lives.

Empowering Digital Safety from Violence: 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.

Empowering Digital Safety from Violence: 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence

16 Days of Activism Feature Image

On December 5th, 2025, the Gender-Based Violence team of RADA hosted an awareness creation session as part of our campaign during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) campaign. The event, coordinated by GBV Lead Moffo Maurine, brought together RADA's staff and volunteers to raise awareness on digital safety and combat online violence against women and girls.

Understanding Digital Violence

In a thought-provoking presentation, Moses Kangong, highlighted the various forms of digital violence, including online harassment, cyberbullying, image abuse, digital dating abuse, and online grooming. He shed light on the devastating impacts of these actions, such as emotional distress, social exclusion, and educational disruptions. "The effects of digital violence can be long-lasting and far-reaching," Moses emphasized. "It's crucial that we take proactive steps to prevent online violence and support those affected."

The presentation also touched on the risks associated with digital violence, including low digital literacy, and the importance of prioritizing digital safety. Participants were encouraged to be mindful of their online behavior and to report any instances of online violence.

Digital Safety Awareness Photo 1 Digital Safety Awareness Photo 2 Digital Safety Awareness Photo 3

Key Takeaways

  • The importance of digital literacy in preventing online violence: "Digital literacy is not just about being tech-savvy; it's about being aware of the potential risks and taking steps to protect yourself online," Moses noted.
  • The need for a collective effort to combat digital violence: "We all have a role to play in creating a safer online environment," Hezelle, Head of Department, Sustainable Peace, emphasized. "Let's work together to promote digital safety and respect."
  • Strategies for promoting digital safety and respect online: Participants were encouraged to practice safe online behaviors, such as using strong passwords, being cautious when sharing personal information, and reporting online harassment.

A Call to Action

As we continue to navigate the digital age, we must prioritize digital safety and respect. Let us work together to create a safer online environment for all, particularly women and girls who are disproportionately affected by online violence. "We must take action to prevent online violence and support those affected.”

FOOD POLICY: COUNTERING INDUSTRY INTERFERENCE TOWARDS SECURING EVIDENCE-BASED CURBING of NCDS PREVALENCE IN CAMEROON

FOOD POLICY: COUNTERING INDUSTRY INTERFERENCE TOWARDS SECURING EVIDENCE-BASED CURBING of NCDS PREVALENCE IN CAMEROON

Food Policy Workshop Feature Image

On November 25 and 26, 2025, marked a very important step in RADA’s and its partners advocacy for the adoption of a healthy food policy in Cameroon. The session titled “Food Policy: Countering Industry Interference towards Securing Evidence-Based Curbing of NCDs Prevalence in Cameroon” was geared towards

  • Conducting a landscape analysis for industry interference on Front of Package Warning Labels (FOPWL) and Taxation Policies in Cameroon.
  • Conduct a political mapping of the industry
  • Contribute to the Industry interference response strategy

The host for the day was Ms. Chenwi Claris introduced the organization and handed the floor to Ferdinant M. Sonyuy to provide opening remarks. After welcoming the participants, he stated that the session would focus on political mapping and that it would be conducted with a strong understanding of policy advocacy to achieve the session's objectives.

With the aim for the session known to the participants, Ferdinant defined what NCDs are and their risk factors, as well as the global picture, the Cameroon situation. He went further to talk about what unhealthy diets are and their link to NCDs and the consequences, especially in children and young adults. In the next phase, he discussed mitigation strategies, including taxation, FoPWLs, and regulation of advertising, among others. There was also a presentation on what Front of Package Warning Labels (FoPWLs) are. the FoPWLs that RADA designed in collaboration with MINSANTE and the research methodology. The highlight of the policy pathways for both the FoPWLs and taxation of unhealthy diets was given. The objectives of the presentation were;

  • To understand the industry interference and the landscape of the FoPWLs and Taxation policies.
  • To conduct a political mapping of industry interference on the two food policies.
  • Contribute to the industry interference response strategy and collaboration
Workshop Photo 1 Workshop Photo 2

A family photo was taken, which was closely followed by a breakout session. The participants were split into two groups, which focused on FoPWLs and the Taxation of unhealthy Packaged Foods, respectively. They had to follow a presentation, then participate in the group work sessions.

Ferdinant presented on industry interference and mapping, where he defined industry interference and gave the reason for mapping, which is that we want to be 80% proactive towards interference and 20% reactive (20/80 rule). He also presented the advocacy strategy and the industry strategy for both the FoPLWs and the Taxation of Unhealthy Packaged Products. He also enumerated the various analyses that were done and their importance. Ferdinant also presented the industry landscape analysis, which started from the problem to the strategy.

“The point is to have a situation where industry is neutralized in the advocacy process, and the policies passed”. Mentioning the actors and actions, the results from the RADA Industry Interference Monitoring Response and Orientation Platform (RIIMROP) site on industry actions showed a high level of actions from the industry.

The four (4) elements of monitoring are the purpose of monitoring, what to monitor, how to monitor, and the tools and methodologies for monitoring. There are 3 levels of actors: multinational, business platforms, and alliances established by levels one and two. He presented an iceberg of industry, which included three parts, with the top being industry interference actions to oppose/influence policies, the food industry taxonomy was next under the water, and trends to achieve and ensure co-governance were the bottom of the iceberg. He spoke about political action, which was the main target of the working session. This process involves actions targeted at decision makers, policy processes, and opposition viewpoints to reduce or counter industry interference. So, there is a need to map out the process, identify the key decision makers, map key influencers and external stakeholders, and assess the decision makers, key influencers, and stakeholders.

Day 2 followed a similar pattern, as it was mostly characterized by group work, presentations, and recommendations to mitigate industry interference.

Overall, this 2-day workshop was a huge success, as the appraisals were positive and with key recommendations given to improve RADA’s advocacy for the adoption of healthy food policies in Cameroon. The workshop had over 10 participants in attendance, with representatives from the regional delegation of trade and mines, industry, and technological development, Civil society organizations, lawyers, Political Scientists, economists, and RADA.

AN ARTICLE FOR THE COMMEMORATION OF WORLD DIABETES DAY 2025

World Diabetes Day Feature Image

AN ARTICLE FOR THE COMMEMORATION OF WORLD DIABETES DAY 2025

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the leading causes of global morbidity and mortality. It is manifested when the body cannot manufacture or utilise insulin. Millions of people with diabetes face daily challenges managing their condition in the workplace, including stigma, discrimination, and exclusion. This World Diabetes Day 2025, with the theme being Diabetes and Wellbeing, focused on the campaign slogan ‘Know more and do more for diabetes at work’

At RADA, we did a 05 days countdown from Monday, the 10th, till Friday, the 14th of November, on raising awareness on diabetes as a whole, the types, risks, and management techniques. On our last day, we conducted a video with the organisation's staff, focusing on Diabetes and the Workplace, and educating them on their role as staff employers or resource managers. The Regional Hospital Bamenda organized a program in commemoration of World Diabetes Day, and Moffo N. Anaisse, the program Manager for the Type 1 Diabetes Support Advocacy program, took part in it, where she prepared a speech and delivered it as follows;

WDD Photo 1 WDD Photo 2 WDD Photo 3

“I would like to start by asking a question for us all, and it goes thus: Did we ever stop to think at some point about a scenario where physicians and medical scientists never found out what diabetes was, not to even talk of its management? That would have been a tragedy, creating a tale of endless grief for humanity

On behalf of the President/CEO of the Reconciliation and Development Association, Mr. Mbiydzenuy Ferdinant, I am honoured to be here today, November 14, 2025, a day recognized globally as World Diabetes Day. This year’s theme, Diabetes and Wellbeing, aligns with the overall SDG 3 target 4 on health and well-being. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as diabetes, certainly pose a significant challenge to maintaining the state of well-being. Organizing a two-day picnic of champions in Baffoussam for children with lived experience of TID was one of the events that this year's RADA, in collaboration with the Regional Hospital and the Banso Baptist Hospital, organized to boost the well-being of these children and their caregivers. Indeed, the effect was profound, and the atmosphere was filled with widespread smiles and joyful expressions of the children and their parents, 26 in number.

Collaboration remains critical in the region to support the livelihood and psychological well-being of people living with diabetes. We want to appreciate the Regional Delegate of Public Health, Dr Ambe Lionel, and the Director of the Regional Hospital, Dr. Denis Nsame, for their strong and positive collaboration with RADA. Also, Mme. Aliah Deslyn, the Site Coordinator for the CDiC, together with Mme. Nfor Claudette, the Focal Person for Diabetes and Hypertension, and Mme. Mah Anyangwe, the Clinical Psychologist, proved to be a great force of true collaboration. Thank you for your exceptional work and dedication to service, as it is indeed rare to find such. I promise you the world is a better place because of you, our employees, parents, brothers, sisters, and children now have better diabetes management thanks to your strong commitment. Health is wealth, and we must preserve it at all costs.”

The day of the program started with a diabetes walk to the hospital round about and back and continued with a warm welcome speech from the Director of the Hospital, Dr. Denis Nsame followed by a series of learning sessions that included: an explanation of the theme of the year; Diabetes and Wellbeing, a talk on Diabetes in children and education on psychosocial support and nutrition for diabetic patients.

Indeed, it was a day well spent celebrating World Diabetes Day.

In conclusion, there is an urgent need for collective action to combat the global diabetes epidemic through awareness, prevention, accessible care, and management. This fight against diabetes is a shared responsibility requiring the collaboration of individuals, families, healthcare professionals, governments, and communities as a whole to implement effective prevention and control strategies.

Prepared by: Moffo Annaise

When Alcohol Fuels the Fire: The Hidden Costs of Alcohol Consumption Among Cameroon’s Youths

When Alcohol Fuels the Fire — RADA
Opinion
Nov 2025

‘When Alcohol Fuels the Fire: The Hidden Costs of Alcohol Consumption Among Cameroon’s Youths’

By: Temboh Yannick

Cameroon is facing a growing crisis as rising alcohol consumption among young people transitions from a casual pastime to a pressing national concern. What was once viewed as a “fun escape” is increasingly undermining communities, contributing to frustration, clouding judgment, and, in some instances, triggering cycles of violence.

Alcohol abuse is not merely an individual issue; it poses a significant societal challenge. Each bottle embodies untold stories of lost potential; students dropping out, young leaders losing their way, and communities fracturing under the weight of despair. The normalization of excessive drinking has fostered a dangerous illusion of control, eroding the very foundations of peace and progress.

As post-election tensions persist in various regions, alcohol often acts as a catalyst for unrest. The link between substance abuse and social instability demands urgent attention. To empower Cameroon’s youth as future leaders, safeguarding their mental clarity and decision-making is essential.

It is imperative to rethink our approach to alcohol culture. Collaboration among communities, educational institutions, and policymakers is crucial in raising awareness, facilitating open dialogues, and providing healthier outlets for coping, expression, and leadership.

Peace begins with a clear mind. Progress is built on sober choices.

#AlcoholAwareness #CameroonDecides #PeaceBuilding

An article: On the Webinar on Government’s Role in Restricting Unhealthy Diets and Promoting Healthy Options

Wbinar on Government’s Role in Restricting Unhealthy Diets

Webinar on Government’s Role in Restricting Unhealthy Diets and Promoting Healthy Options

Webinar Feature Image

On September 23rd, 2025, the Reconciliation and Development Association (RADA) in collaboration with the Coalition for the Promotion of Healthy Diets in Cameroon, hosted a high-level webinar on Government’s Role in Restricting Unhealthy Diets and Promoting Healthy Options. This event, gathered about 50 persons in attendance including policymakers, civil society actors, media representatives, and public health professionals, focused on Cameroon’s response to the growing challenge of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). The webinar was held within the framework of RADA’s Healthy Eating Program that closely followed the launch of the RADA Industry Interference Monitoring and Response Orientation Platform (RIIMROP), a tool designed to safeguard policy processes from undue industry influence.

Opening Remarks

The session began with opening remarks by Ms. Claris Chenwi, Project Coordinator at RADA, who welcomed participants and stressed the urgency of tackling unhealthy http://localhost/radabackupwp-content/uploads/2025/10/Image-2.jpg diets through collaborative action. She noted that the government has a unique responsibility in creating an enabling environment for healthy living. “Civil society can advocate and raise awareness, but without government leadership and high-level political will, our efforts will not be enough to reverse the NCD crisis,” she remarked.

First Presentation: Policy Interventions for Healthy Eating in Cameroon

The first presentation was delivered by Mr. Ferdinant M. Sonyuy, President/CEO of RADA, Secretary General of the Cameroon NCD Alliance (CNCDA), and Executive Director of ANN. His presentation focused on, Policy Interventions for Healthy Eating in Cameroon: Implications to Cameroon’s Post-UNHLM Leadership on NCDs, highlighted the global and national burden of NCDs and underscored the role of government in championing food policies that protect citizens.

Mr. Ferdinant Presentation

Drawing on the outcomes of the United Nations High-Level Meeting (UNHLM) on NCDs, Mr. Sonyuy explained that every country is expected to be represented at the meeting by high-level officials such as the Minister of Health or Foreign Affairs, or ideally, the Head of State. “When our leaders from the Senate to the Presidency give serious consideration to the NCD crisis, it signals strong national commitment and ensures accountability in the fight,” he stated.

Policy Interventions Discussion

He further called for Cameroon to pass what he described as ‘low-hanging fruit’ policies, including taxation on sweetened beverages (SBs) and the implementation of Front of Package Warning Labels (FoPWLs). “Charity must begin at home. We cannot claim leadership at the regional and global level if we are not implementing evidence-based food policies here in Cameroon,” he said.

Highlighting RADA’s contributions, Mr. Sonyuy spoke about the Healthy Eating Cameroon Program which advocates for UPPs and SBs taxation, healthy food procurement policies, reformulation of unhealthy products, and implementation of FoPWLs. He also stressed the importance of the RIIMROP platform, which was recently developed to monitor and counter industry interference. “Industry interference is a reality. We must be able to identify it, monitor it, and act collectively to safeguard the health of our population,” he added.

Second Presentation: Leadership in Promoting Healthy Eating in Cameroon

The second presentation was delivered by Ms. Marlen Wango, Health Promotion Lead at RADA. Her talk on: Leadership in Promoting Healthy Eating in Cameroon: Challenges and Opportunities, focused on the negative impacts of unhealthy diets and the strides made under RADA’s Healthy Eating Campaign.

Ms. Wango Presentation

“Unhealthy diets have overtaken tobacco as the leading risk factor for NCDs globally. In Cameroon, the story is no different,” she explained. Ms. Wango noted that diets high in sugar, salt, fat, and calories have contributed to rising cases of obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and cancers. She further emphasized that these diseases are not only destroying lives but also placing immense pressure on the country’s healthcare system.

Ms. Wango highlighted the achievements of the Healthy Eating Campaign, which has built a coalition of 22 civil society organizations, trained 35 health educators, and partnered with 38 media houses. “So far, our campaign has reached communities through churches, schools, mosques, markets, hospitals, and social media platforms, with an impressive outreach of more than 10,000 people,” she shared. She also underscored the role of the Social Cognitive Theory in driving behavioral change and the importance of community-based educators in building trust and credibility.

Despite successes, she noted several challenges including misinformation, limited resources, and resistance from some segments of the public. “The industry has been pushing narratives that unhealthy products fight hunger and malnutrition. We must counter these with evidence and community education. Nobody wants to be sick, not even our leaders,” she stressed.

The next key activity was a thorough question and answer session that was moderated by the host, Magdalene Nghanwi. The participants were encouraged to make use of the RIIMROP platform and also join the on going policy advocacy.

CEO’s Last Words

In his final words, Mr. Ferdinant M. Sonyuy emphasized unity and accountability: “It is important we all gather and work with the government so that our health is secured. Things that affect our health need to be responded to without any conflict of interest.”

Closing Remarks

In his closing remarks, Mr. Ferdinant M. Sonyuy delivered a powerful message, calling for urgent political action: “Our leaders, from the Senate to the Presidency, must give high-level consideration to the NCD crisis. Policies should be passed without delay to protect the health of our people. This is not only a public health issue but a development imperative.”

He reaffirmed RADA’s commitment to work with the government, civil society, and international partners to build a healthier future for Cameroon. The webinar ended with a collective call to action for stronger government leadership, sustained advocacy, and community engagement to ensure that healthier food environments become a reality in Cameroon.

Prepared by: Bidmia Christabel Bobnyonga and Merveille Ngueubou

The RADA Industry Interference Monitoring and Response Orientation Platform (RIIMROP) Launch

RIIMROP Launch Article

The RADA Industry Interference Monitoring and Response Orientation Platform (RIIMROP) Launch

RIIMROP Launch

On August 21st, 2025 at the the United International Hotel, Yaoundé, the RADA Industry Interference Platform was launched. History has been made with this site that is aimed at ensuring that policies that are designed to combat non-communicable diseases (NCDs) remain free from negative corporate influence. The overall goal of this site is to promote transparency and accountability by monitoring industry interference and actions around policies. In attendance for this event were over 55 people from several sectors of development, we had representatives from the Ministry of public Health (MINSANTE), World Health Organization (WHO), Agency for Norms and Standards (ANOR), Ministry of Economy, Planning and Regional Development (MINEPAT), Ministry of Mines, Industry and Technological Development (MINMIDT), the Cameroon NCD Alliance (CNCDA), Media, Nexinch, the RADA Team and other civil society organizations.

Participants at Launch

In the opening remarks, the CEO of RADA, Ferdinant M. Sonyuy, said that RADA was delighted to join everyone in Cameroon to promote healthy lifestyles. With an overview of the organization with its vision and mission, he spoke about the Healthy Eating Program of RADA that has birth the development of this site. In his remarks, he provided statistics on NCDs worldwide and in Cameroon, and appreciated the Ministry of Public Health, the Global Health Advocacy Incubator -GHAI, and Resolve to Save Lives for their collaboration and support. “Industry interference is a key issue that Cameroon needs to pay attention to,” Said Ferdinant. In his words, he said, “at the end of the session, the hope is to assist the relevant stakeholders to understand this interference and be able to counter it for the sake of the population.”

Presentation Session

Professor Jean-Claude Mbanya, the Chair of the CNCDA, presided this ceremony, and provided a few key remarks, first he emphasized on the data Mr. Sonyuy presented and said this “unless there are joint forces to curb the influence of industry, the next generation will not be saved from NCDs”. He highlighted the benefits of Healthy Food Policies, “it is necessary to make noise about the norms so that it should become law. RADA is giving a platform to be able to identify those who will be working against this; it is important to know the impact of this.”

Presentation Session

The WHO representative Dr Danielle Simnoue supported this initiative and said it will eventually reduce the death rate from NCDs in Cameroon. She said the taxation and Front of Package Warning Labels (FoPWLs) are very important as it is recommended by the WHO and are in line with the 3rd Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for the WHO. She further reaffirmed their support to RADA throughout this advocacy.

Presentation Session

The last remark came from Nicole Ide, from Resolve to Save Lives. She spoke about the rise of NCDs due to poor diets and processed products and also stated that food policy is a human right issue, and went ahead to talk about policies that are helpful to reduce the availability of these packaged products, and focused on Front of Package Warning Labels (FoPWLs). She said these labels are gaining momentum worldwide as many countries are adopting them. “Industry is out for profit, and they will always stand against such policies, and we have to safeguard against this interference by ensuring these policies are based on scientific evidence, use a strong nutrient profile, among others.” To conclude, Nicole said the industry will always resist; it is not unique to Cameroon, but we need to save lives and look above the profit level.

Live Launch Moment

The next key session that followed was the presentation on Understanding Industry Interference- the industry playbook. This session focused on unveiling the different industry tactics, to resist and deny the implementation of healthy food policies, such tactics include;

  • Threatening and challenging governments that have passed the tax.
  • Defaming evidence to distort tax
  • Stigmatizing the SB tax.
  • Taking advantage of and using vulnerable populations and environmental concerns to imply that the products are good for health, avoid tax or make an argument for the right choice.

The ways to mitigate such tactics were to;

  • Protect the tax design
  • Safeguard the policy decision-making process
  • Leverage CSOs' opportunities
Live Launch Moment

Before the launch, the web developer Momene Vigal, explained how to access the site, the information on the site, how to create an account, how to report and the validation process to be done by the admin.

Live Launch Moment

The floor for question and answer session was opened, comments and clarifications about the site given. The next key segment of this launch, was the actual launch of the site, Professor Mbanya came up and pressed the Live button but before he did, he said “This is an innovative initiative for Cameroon, and if used right will be of great benefit to us. The community needs to be aware of this site so as to help.”

In conclusion, there is a need for a strong political will, advocacy, media support, and regional body support. More remarks came from the representative from MINSANTE and the chair of the CNCDA. The call to action was, for MINMIDT to move on with the FoPWL project without industry interference and the media should spread the word as they have a really strong role to play.

Live Launch Moment

Prepared by: Ngueubou N. Merveille

Strengthening NCD Advocacy and Governance in Africa: RADA at the Forefront

Strengthening NCD Advocacy and Governance in Africa: RADA at the Forefront

Governance

Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, RADA represents the secretariat of the Cameroon NCD Alliance, a coalition of civil society organisations with a mission to ensure a collective voice for NCDs at home and abroad.

Advocacy

First, we align strongly with the Call to Lead on NCDs and the eight (8) Africa NCDs Network HLM advocacy priorities including priority 2 on strengthening political commitment and leadership highlighting the need to fast track national commitments to NCDs through strong leadership, ensuring inclusive decision-making with people living with NCDs and civil society.

Panel

Less than 25 African countries have a national NCD policy /action plan. Political will is clearly lacking here in prioritising NCDS in line with regional and global trends, where 75% of global deaths are woefully due to NCDs.

Forum

The growing phenomenon of the economic argument, which removes the health from the economics, has paved the way for unwarranted industry interference, exchanging short-term, seemingly economic gains for virtually planned long-term incapacitation if it is not immediately mitigated.

Given that everyone is affected by NCDs regardless of our levels of political engagement, we urge member states to:

  1. Consider prioritizing the implementation of WHO Best Buys.
  2. Invest in developing Investment Cases to reflect sound economic human capital gains in NCD prevention and control.
  3. Support community engagement and adequately value the power of lived experience especially across the most vulnerable groups.

The lack of policies betrays the presence of political will. We cannot hold high-level political meetings with few policies in place. As Civil Society, we join our voices to call for real engagement by policy makers, as the majority of the cost-effective interventions need the signature of a pen for implementation, and all lie in the hands of our policy makers.

© 2025 RADA | Visit us at www.cacsna.org

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