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Resilience and hope thrive amid urban challenges as a community embraces a healthier future. Loise Wambui Karuku, a 34-year-old diabetic, is a shining example of this resilience. Diagnosed with diabetes at just 22, Loise’s life took a dramatic turn, forcing her to navigate a health system that often falls short of addressing the needs of people living with Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).
When the Diabetes Awareness Trust (DAT) launched its project in Viwandani in 2023, it marked the beginning of a transformative journey for Loise and many like her. Loise recalls the moment she first heard about DAT.
“For the first time, it felt like someone was thinking about us—diabetes patients. The knowledge and support they provided gave us hope and a sense of community.”
Loise quickly joined DAT’s activities, participating in trainings and sensitization forums that emphasized the importance of nutrition, safe-produced foods, and healthy living. Among these, the nutritional education sessions stood out as particularly impactful. Through these sessions, Loise learned to manage her diabetes effectively and began sharing her experiences with others, emerging as a community champion for managing diabetes and promoting healthy lifestyles.
The Power of Knowledge and Community Support
Loise’s transformation didn’t happen overnight. The DAT project introduced her to the critical link between safe-produced foods and health outcomes, especially for those managing NCDs.
“It now makes so much sense to me,” she says. “Knowing where your food comes from and how it’s grown is just as important as the medicine you take. For us, organic vegetables are not a luxury—they’re a necessity.”
However, accessing organic foods in Viwandani remains a significant challenge. Limited availability and high costs make it difficult for residents to incorporate these into their diets consistently.
Despite these hurdles, Loise has embraced the concept of safe-produced foods, advocating for more awareness and accessibility within her community.
Beyond the knowledge gained, DAT’s activities have fostered a sense of solidarity among diabetes patients. The experience-sharing forums provided a safe space for patients to discuss their struggles and successes, breaking the isolation that many felt. For Loise, this network of support has been invaluable.
“Talking to others who understand what I’m going through has made a world of difference. We encourage each other, share tips, and celebrate together!”
Challenges in the Health System
While DAT’s efforts have significantly improved awareness and management of diabetes in Viwandani, Loise highlights the systemic challenges that persist. Access to medications and essential monitoring tools like glucometers remains a major concern for diabetes patients.
“We had high expectations when the project started,” Loise admits. “We hoped to receive medications and glucometers, but the health system is still not prioritizing NCDs the way it should.”
She attributes this gap to the decentralized nature of Kenya’s health system, where county governments play a crucial role in determining healthcare priorities. In some cases, infectious diseases and overshadowing diabetes and other NCDs.
Inspiring Change
Despite these challenges, Loise remains optimistic and determined to drive change within her community. Her advocacy has inspired others to take charge of their health habits. To seeking regular screenings and medical advice. She also collaborates with Community Health Officers (CHOs) trained by DAT to spread awareness and connect more residents to resources and support groups.
Loise’s work has sparked a wave of change in Viwandani, where more residents are starting to understand the importance of food safety and nutrition. Some have even started growing their vegetables in small kitchen gardens, a practice promoted by DAT to ensure access to safe-produced foods.
Looking ahead, Loise dreams of a community where every diabetic patient has access to the resources they need to manage their condition effectively. She hopes for more robust support from both the government and organizations like DAT to address the gaps in the health system and make organic foods more accessible.
A Beacon of Hope
Loise’s journey from patient to advocate is a testament to the power of knowledge, community, and determination. Through her work with DAT, she has not only transformed her own life but has also become a beacon of hope for others navigating the challenges of diabetes. Her story is a reminder that, with the right support and resources, even the most marginalized communities can thrive.
“It’s not just about living with diabetes,” she smiles. “And together, we can make that a reality for everyone in Viwandani.”
