Kenyan Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has called for an intensified, coordinated continental response to the escalating crisis of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), injuries, and mental health conditions across Africa.

• Africa faces a growing burden of NCDs, injuries, and mental health issues.
• The call was made during a ministerial session at the United Nations Office at Nairobi, facilitated by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.
• Kenya is strengthening its approach through the National NCD Intersectoral Coordination Committee and reforms under Taifa Care and the Social Health Authority, aiming to expand access to care for over 30.6 million Kenyans.

The Kenya Meteorological Service Authority (KMSA) has issued a warning for persistent heavy rains and potential floods and landslides across several counties until May 1.

• Heavy rainfall is expected in regions including Nairobi, the Rift Valley, the Coast, and Northeastern Kenya, with some areas facing intense downpours.
• The KMSA advises caution for road travel and aviation due to reduced visibility, and warns against sheltering under trees or near grilled windows during storms.
• Residents in flood-prone areas like Nairobi, Kisumu, and Garissa are urged to monitor rising water levels and consider relocating to safer ground.

Kenya is grappling with a significant public health crisis, recording over 19,000 snakebite cases annually, resulting in more than 1,000 deaths according to Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale.

• Over 1,000 deaths occur each year from snakebites in Kenya.
• Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale is leading efforts to combat this issue.
• Kenya is investing in domestic antivenom production and advocating for stronger global action.