By Bilkis Abdulraheem Lawal
The World Health Organization (WHO) has sounded the alarm over Africa’s growing diabetes crisis, warning that the number of adults living with the disease could more than double from 24 million today to 60 million by 2050, if urgent action is not taken.
WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Mohamed Janabi, issued the warning in his message for World Diabetes Day 2025, marked under the theme “Diabetes Across Life Stages.”
Dr. Janabi said nearly half of those affected in Africa remain undiagnosed, facing high risks of complications such as heart, kidney, and nerve damage. He called for early detection, better access to affordable medicines, and stronger health systems that can provide continuous care.
“We have a window of up to 15 years to control diabetes through regular exercise, healthy eating, and appropriate medication,” he said.
He also urged African governments to integrate diabetes care into primary health systems and strengthen policies that promote physical activity and healthy diets.
The WHO has launched regional frameworks such as the Global Diabetes Compact and PEN-Plus to help countries expand access to preventive and chronic disease care.
Dr. Janabi concluded by calling for collective action, saying, “Every person with diabetes deserves a healthy, dignified, and fulfilling life.”
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