Last week, we had the pleasure of partnering with the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF) to host an NGO session at their international non-communicable disease (NCD) forum. This collaborative effort aimed to underscore the pivotal role that non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play in addressing NCDs in St. Kitts and Nevis.
Our session featured two deeply insightful panel discussions. The first panel was dedicated to exploring community-based NCD interventions led by NGOs and this panel featured:
- Anthony Mills, Public Relations Officer at the St. Kitts Nevis Association of Persons with Disabilities. Mr Mills highlighted that NCDs are one of the major causes of disability. He emphasized that any NCD strategy must place disabilities at its core, ensuring that NCD treatment, care, and prevention approaches are fully accessible to people living with disabilities. He also stressed the importance of meaningfully engaging persons with disabilities in the development of these strategies.
- Glenville Liburd, Founder of the Nevis Renal Society, explored the extensive work the society has done in the community to raise awareness of renal issues. He shared insights into their initiatives and the positive impacts they have had on community health.
- Abi Begho, Founder and Programme Director at Lake Health and Wellbeing, highlighted the organization’s efforts in conducting research into women’s health issues, empowering women living with NCDs, and advocating for effective health policies.
The discussion was moderated by Ms. Terysia Herbert, Project Officer of the St. Kitts and Nevis NCD Alliance. Through this discussion, panelists highlighted important grassroots efforts that are making significant impacts in our communities.
The second panel delved into NCD policy advocacy, particularly focusing on sugar-sweetened beverage taxation. This enlightening session was moderated by Rachel Morrison of the Global Health Advocacy Incubator and featured the following panelists:
- Michele Baker, Advocacy and Research Officer at Lake Health and Wellbeing
- Maisha Hutton, Executive Director of the Healthy Caribbean Coalition
- Kesaundra Alves, Legal Advisor at the Global Health Advocacy Incubator
- Genesia Pemberton, Youth Health Advocate at Lake Health and Wellbeing
This panel offered an overview of the policy measures that can be instrumental in curbing the rise of NCDs. This included policies recommended by the WHO such as sugar-sweetened beverage taxation, front-of-package warning labels, a school nutrition policy and alcohol and tobacco control policies. The panelists emphasized the need for robust advocacy from NGOs, appropriate legislative frameworks and, very importantly, the political will to introduce the required policies.
The discussions were both thought-provoking and enlightening, providing a rich exchange of ideas and strategies. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our panelists, moderators, and the Taiwan ICDF for making this session a success.
We look forward to further collaborations and are committed to leveraging the insights gained from this forum to enhance our efforts in tackling NCDs effectively. Thank you to everyone who participated and supported this important initiative.
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