Kitui County joined the global community in marking World Hypertension Day 2026, with renewed calls for urgent and coordinated action to tackle hypertension, a leading driver of deaths linked to non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Speaking to the press, Dr. Catherine Karekezi, Executive Director of NCD Alliance Kenya, warned that hypertension remains a significant public health challenge in the country, often going undetected due to its silent nature.
According to the Ministry of Health Kenya, nearly one in four Kenyan adults—about 24 percent—are living with hypertension. However, a large proportion remain unaware of their condition due to limited routine screening. Of those diagnosed, approximately 78 percent are not on treatment, and only a small number achieve proper blood pressure control.
Health experts note that the growing burden of hypertension is contributing to a wider NCD crisis in Kenya. Recent government data indicates that NCDs now account for about 43 percent of all deaths nationally, driven largely by cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, chronic respiratory illnesses, and kidney disease.
The impact is also being felt in rising cases of kidney disease. The Ministry of Health estimates that about 3.1 million Kenyans are currently living with chronic kidney disease, with hypertension and diabetes identified as the leading causes.
“Hypertension is often called the silent killer because many people do not know they have it until serious complications occur,” said Dr. Karekezi. “Regular screening, healthy diets, physical activity, reduced salt intake, and adherence to treatment are essential in reducing preventable deaths.”
Stakeholders in Kitui emphasized the need for increased investment in prevention, early diagnosis, and long-term management of hypertension. They also highlighted the role of community-level interventions in strengthening the fight against NCDs.
The government, through the Ministry of Health, is implementing the national NCD strategic plan, scaling up community screening, and integrating hypertension services into primary healthcare. Efforts are also underway to expand access to chronic disease care under the Social Health Authority framework.
Community Health Promoters were recognized as key players in grassroots awareness, routine screening, and referrals, helping to improve early detection and treatment adherence across counties.
As the country marks World Hypertension Day, health advocates are urging Kenyans to “know their numbers” by regularly checking their blood pressure and adopting healthier lifestyles to reduce the risk of complications.
Key Facts:
About 24% of Kenyan adults are living with hypertension.
NCDs account for approximately 43% of all deaths in Kenya.
Around 3.1 million Kenyans have chronic kidney disease.
Cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of mortality.
About World Hypertension Day
Observed annually on May 17, World Hypertension Day aims to raise awareness on prevention, detection, and control of high blood pressure globally.
