The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a stark warning that the number of adults living with diabetes in Africa could surge to 60 million by 2050 if current health trends continue. Presently, over 24 million adults aged between 20 and 79 are diagnosed with the condition. This alarming projection was made in a message marking World Diabetes Day on November 14, 2025.
In his statement, Dr. Mohamed Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa, emphasized the urgent need to reverse this trend. He noted that the rising prevalence of diabetes is being fuelled by a combination of shifting lifestyles, increasing rates of overweight and obesity, and inadequate access to preventive and primary health services. Dr. Janabi stated, “Africa is facing an unprecedented rise in diabetes… The scale and speed of this trend demand urgent and sustained action.”
The impact of diabetes is profound. Over time, the disease can lead to severe complications affecting the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves, significantly diminishing the quality of life for individuals and families. Presently, nearly half of those with diabetes in Africa remain undiagnosed, often facing escalating risks of serious health issues and early mortality.
Health Systems at Risk
Dr. Janabi warned that without decisive action, the rising diabetes rates could overwhelm health systems across the continent, straining economies and undermining recent development achievements. He highlighted the theme for this year’s World Diabetes Day: “Diabetes Across Life Stages.” This theme reflects the need for tailored responses at every stage of life, recognizing that diabetes affects children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly.
To address this crisis, the WHO called on African nations to establish health systems that are resilient and well-resourced, capable of delivering continuous care from prevention and early diagnosis to effective treatment and lifelong support. In 2024, African Member States endorsed the Framework for the Implementation of the Global Diabetes Compact in Africa, reaffirming their commitment to equitable and comprehensive diabetes care.
Countries like Ghana and Uganda are already taking steps to integrate diabetes and cardiovascular services into primary healthcare systems, demonstrating a proactive approach to managing chronic diseases.
Path Forward for Diabetes Management
The WHO is actively supporting countries in adapting and implementing these frameworks for diabetes prevention and control. The WHO PEN package, currently operational in 31 countries, alongside PEN-Plus, implemented in 20 countries, aims to enhance access to affordable, quality care for chronic diseases at the primary care level.
Dr. Janabi emphasized the importance of sustained financing, reliable supply chains, and robust referral and data systems to maintain progress and ensure equity in healthcare delivery. He stated that the current campaign aims to empower individuals living with diabetes to manage their condition effectively at every life stage.
As the number of diabetes cases continues to rise, the WHO’s call to action highlights the critical need for comprehensive strategies to combat this growing health crisis in Africa. The time for urgent and coordinated efforts is now, to safeguard the health of millions and secure the future of the continent’s health systems.
