By Jacob Ngwenya
As the world commemorates World Kidney Day today, March 13, 2025, Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Champions Zimbabwe is leading the charge in advocating for kidney health policy changes and promoting awareness about kidney disease prevention and management.
This year’s theme, “Are Your Kidneys OK?” is a timely reminder of the importance of prioritizing kidney health. In Zimbabwe, kidney diseases are a significant public health concern, with an estimated 10 percent of the population living with chronic kidney disease.
To address this growing burden, NCD Champions Zimbabwe are calling on policymakers, healthcare providers, and individuals to join forces in promoting kidney health.
The organization’s policy engagement document outlines three key objectives to raise awareness and educate the public about kidney health and the importance of prevention, early detection, and treatment of kidney diseases.
It also advocates for policy changes, pushing for policy changes that prioritize kidney health and improve access to kidney care services. It also seeks to engage stakeholders and encourage policymakers, healthcare providers, and individuals to promote kidney health and reduce the burden of kidney diseases in Zimbabwe.
To achieve these objectives, NCD Champions Zimbabwe is requesting policymakers to develop and implement a national kidney health policy, prioritizing prevention, early detection, and treatment of kidney diseases. It also requests for increased funding for kidney care services.
It also hopes for the provision of accessible, affordable, and quality kidney care services, including dialysis and transplantation, and the implementation of public awareness campaigns through educating the population about kidney health and disease prevention.
The organization is also recommending several policy changes, including strengthening healthcare systems, providing training and capacity-building programs for healthcare workers, and establishing a national kidney registry.
As we commemorate World Kidney Day 2025, NCD Champions Zimbabwe is urging everyone to join the conversation and take action. Together, we can make a difference and promote kidney health for all.
