Novo Nordisk hosted a scientific launch event in Nairobi on Saturday , where it highlighted that the introduction of Ozempic and Wegovy in Kenya will be supported by healthcare provider training on eligibility assessment, responsible prescribing standards, and structured patient support programs .

The roll-out comes as healthcare experts urge a comprehensive approach to address the country's rising cardio-metabolic health burden .

Speaking at the launch, consultant physician and endocrinologist Dr. Roseline Ngugi highlighted the urgent need for heightened awareness, early screening, and timely intervention .

"Africa alone has seen a rise in the prevalence of diabetes of over 142 per cent in the last ten years," Dr. Ngugi noted, emphasizing that a significant portion of the Kenyan population lives with undiagnosed diabetes .

Addressing the systemic perception of weight management, Dr. Ngugi stressed that obesity should not be viewed merely through lifestyle choices .

"Obesity is not a lifestyle disease. It is a metabolic condition closely causing cardio-metabolic diseases," she explained . She further noted that the condition is increasingly affecting multiple demographic groups, including children .

Addressing previous barriers to treatment, Dr. Ngugi expressed optimism regarding market pricing structures .

"One of the problems we had is accessibility. However, I am excited to announce that the price they are offering is affordable," Dr. Ngugi stated .

Malika De Maillard, Head of Novo Nordisk Business Area Africa, led the scientific discussion surrounding the underlying mechanisms of the therapies and the evolving treatment landscape for non-communicable diseases .

Pointing to extensive global clinical experience, De Maillard underscored the urgency of addressing chronic metabolic conditions .

"There is a great medical need for diabetic patients," De Maillard noted, reinforcing the necessity for ongoing innovation and cross-sector collaboration to treat complex, interconnected conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and kidney disease .

At the event, Danish Ambassador to Kenya, Stephan Schønemann, emphasized the potential of international partnerships to expand access to care and enhance health system capacities .

"We are giving people with diabetes a better option," Ambassador Schønemann said, reflecting on the shared goals of improving clinical outcomes and bridging global healthcare disparities .

Both Ozempic and Wegovy contain semaglutide and work by mimicking a natural hormone (GLP-1) that slows digestion, targets the areas of the brain that regulate appetite, and prompts the pancreas to release insulin.