Confronting non-communicable diseases crisis in east, central and southern Africa health communities (ECSA-HC).

Abstract

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health (MH) conditions are a growing burden across Africa, driving premature mortality, economic strain, and pressure on health systems. The 76th East, Central and Southern Africa Health Community (ECSA-HC) Ministerial conference convened over 300 delegates in Eswatini to review progress, share best practices, and identify strategic actions to accelerate regional responses to NCDs, MH and adolescent nutrition. This article synthesizes key discussions, country experiences, and partner contributions from the plenary session. Participants highlighted advances in integrating NCD and MH services into primary healthcare, strengthening multisectoral coordination, and expanding prevention initiatives targeting adolescents and communities. Persistent challenges included limited surveillance systems, insufficient domestic financing, and inequitable access to diagnostics and medicines. The outcomes provide policy-relevant insights and practical strategies to strengthen health systems and accelerate progress towards universal health coverage (UHC) and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets in the region.