By Staff Reporter
Zimbabwean youth leaders on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have joined their global peers in calling for immediate, bold action to tackle NCDs and mental health challenges, following the launch of the Kigali Youth Declaration at the Global NCD Alliance Forum held in Kigali, Rwanda.
More than 60 youth representatives from over 40 countries, including delegates from Zimbabwe, co-created the Declaration, which demands stronger policies, greater investment in youth health, and the meaningful inclusion of young people in decision-making processes concerning NCDs and mental health.
NCDs, including poor mental health, pose a catastrophic threat to our generation, undermining our health, dignity, potential, and future,” the Declaration states. It highlights alarming statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF: globally, NCDs kill 18 million people before age 70 annually, with 82% of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Among those under 20 years old, about one million die from NCDs every year.
The Declaration outlines the unique vulnerabilities facing young people, including exposure to risk factors such as unhealthy diets, tobacco and alcohol use, physical inactivity, and air pollution. It also points to mental health issues, which affect one in seven young people worldwide, yet remain underrepresented in health policies.
Zimbabwean youth delegates stressed that their participation in the forum was vital in ensuring that the voices of African youth are heard. “We are not only the generation most affected, but also the generation that must lead the charge for change,” said one delegate.
The Kigali Youth Declaration puts forth a comprehensive action plan under four pillars. The first pillar is on Leveraging Investment for a Healthier Future.
” Increasing funding for inclusive, youth-friendly health systems and addressing the needs of young people living with NCDs and mental health conditions,” reads the pillar.
The second is about enforcing Policies to Prioritize Prevention.
“Implementing evidence-based measures like the WHO NCD Best Buys and protecting young people from harmful industry practices,” the youths said.
The other pillars: Advancing Accountability and Institutionalized Youth Participation: Establishing formal mechanisms to involve youth in policy design, monitoring, and decision-making.
Driving Change Through Collaboration and Community Engagement: Promoting youth-led initiatives and integrating health education into national school curricula.
The youth leaders pledged to continue advocating for policy changes, raising awareness in their communities, fostering partnerships, and holding stakeholders accountable. Their commitment aligns with the preparations for the upcoming Fourth UN High-Level Meeting on NCDs and Mental Health and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Zimbabwean participants said they are determined to drive national action plans that reflect the priorities of young people, especially in light of the country’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its healthcare system amid rising rates of chronic diseases.
