The Kigali youth statement was co-created by young people in the global non-communicable diseases (NCD) community and highlights the urgency of addressing youth concerns and taking action against NCDs, including mental health. It was an important outcome from the 650 delegates gathered at this global event to share their insights, data and personal experiences on the pressing issues of NCDs, being the leading global cause of death.
With the support of UNICEF, I, as a Fix My Food youth advocate, recently had the privilege of participating in the 4th Global NCD Alliance Forum, held in Rwanda from 13 to15 February 2025. As a panel participant, I shared with delegates the famous South African struggle cry of “Amandla” (which means ‘power’) asking delegates to respond with “Ngawethu” (meaning ‘to us’). This rallying call of “power to the people” seeks to galvanise support for transforming the systems that are failing the health and wellbeing of children, youth and all society. The call also underpins the power of one voice where advocates support each other through participatory collaboration and respect.
I had also volunteered to co-lead the Youth Communications Group for the Forum. We developed messaging, support media engagement and successfully hosted a youth booth at the Forum. The booth showcased the colour and vibrancy that youth bring to advocacy efforts and as one advocate, Chikhulupiliro Ng’ombe, wrote on our message board, “The youth are not just the future. They are the present!”
I especially enjoyed the final day of the Forum, which was “Kigali Car-Free Day”. On this day, locals and delegates walked, ran, cycled and even skateboarded about the city. Free NCD Prevention Screening was available, and I had the chance to do yoga and volleyball. I was also able to experience Kigali’s local fresh produce, reinforcing Rwanda’s holistic approach to health.
Through engaging with other youth advocates, I forged a global support system to share ideas and resources and maintain the movement’s momentum. The experience left me confident, inspired, and motivated to continue my advocacy efforts to transform our systems and prevent NCDs.
I invite everyone to join me advocating for the urgent prevention of NCDs by signing the Call to Lead and endorsing the Kigali Youth Declaration now!
