Kenya has introduced Ozempic and Wegovy to combat the rising burden of type 2 diabetes and obesity. The new prescription medicines, containing semaglutide, were officially launched in Nairobi by pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk.

• Diabetes prevalence across Africa has increased by over 142 per cent in the last ten years.
• The medicines are intended for managing type 2 diabetes (Ozempic) and weight management (Wegovy) under medical supervision.
• Experts emphasize the need for early diagnosis and screening, alongside affordability and accessibility, to effectively address these growing health challenges.