On November 16, 2024, the Rwanda NCDs Alliance and the Geraldine Trada (GT) Foundation joined hands to celebrate World Diabetes Day (WDD) at Muhima Health Center in the City of Kigali.
Although WDD is officially marked every year on November 14, this year’s event extended the awareness drive under the theme “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps”.
The global campaign underscores the need to reduce diabetes risks while ensuring equitable, comprehensive, and affordable access to quality treatment and care for those diagnosed with the condition.
Mutesi Tracey Trada, a Rwandan living in England and the founder of the GT Foundation, shared her personal journey that led to the foundation’s creation in 2019. Her daughter Geraldine was diagnosed with diabetes, a challenge that inspired Mutesi to support Rwandan children and families grappling with the disease.
“The GT Foundation provides medical support, health insurance, food, and other basic necessities to vulnerable children living with diabetes and their families,” Mutesi said.
“We also equip parents with essential knowledge on managing their children’s health, empowering them to offer proper care.”
Alphonse Mbarushimana, Executive Director of the Rwanda NCDs Alliance, highlighted the importance of community awareness in the fight against diabetes.
“Diabetes is a growing health challenge, and awareness is the first step toward prevention and management,” Mbarushimana urged.
“We need people to understand the risks, adopt healthier lifestyles, and get regular checkups. Knowing your status can save your life, and together, we can reduce the burden of diabetes in Rwanda.”
Uzabakiriho Jean Damascene, a resident of Kamonyi District living with diabetes, expressed gratitude for the event.
“Living with diabetes comes with challenges, but events like this remind us that we are not alone,” he said.
“With access to healthcare and support from organizations like GT Foundation, life becomes more manageable. I encourage everyone to take their health seriously and seek medical advice if they notice any symptoms.”
Understanding Diabetes
There are three types of diabetes and their unique characteristics:
- Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition that cannot be prevented and is often hereditary.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Linked to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, obesity, and inactivity, but preventable through healthy habits like exercise and balanced nutrition.
- Gestational Diabetes: Occurs during pregnancy and increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
World Diabetes Day 2024 served as a platform to foster dialogue about the challenges faced by those living with diabetes and the importance of community-driven solutions. As Rwanda continues to prioritize non-communicable diseases, collaborations like the one between the Rwanda NCDs Alliance and the GT Foundation are crucial in breaking barriers and bridging gaps for a healthier future.
