Abstracts

From Patient to Advocate: Using Lived Experience to Influence NCD Action in Nairobi and Surrounding Areas

Not scheduled

20m

Poster Lived Experiences and Advocacy

Description

Abstract

Background:
People living with NCDs have powerful insights into the barriers, realities, and needs of health systems. When supported and empowered, their voices can bring transformational change. My own journey is an example of this impact: through my lived experience and advocacy, I was elected Treasurer of the National Caucus of People Living with NCDs, as well as Treasurer of the Nairobi County Advocacy Chapter.

Objective:
To highlight how lived experience, supported by formal training and community platforms, can drive advocacy, reduce stigma, and improve health-seeking behavior.

Methods:
Trained by NCDAK as an NCD Champion, I used my experience as a person living with type 1 diabetes to engage in advocacy through media, school forums, webinars, and public engagements. As Secretary of the Diabetes & Hypertension Compgners (DHC), a member of NCDAK, I helped co-establish a community clinic and pharmacy that currently supports over 1,000 members across all 47 counties. Patients receive medication, participate in clinic-based peer support groups, and attend AGMs that foster shared learning and engagement.

Results:
Lived experience has been instrumental in raising awareness, building trust, and promoting adherence. My advocacy work earned the NCDAK Media Award for Best Lived Experience Story, bringing national attention to this model of leadership. The integration of real patient voices into structured programs has strengthened community resilience and health literacy.

Conclusion:
Lived experience must be centered in Kenya’s NCD strategies. When backed by strong networks like NCDAK and local innovations such as DHC’s clinic model, patients can lead change from within their communities.