The role of national strategic planning for NCDs in advancing country implementation of global targets

Despite the significant burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Africa and their socio-economic impact, they have historically been neglected on health agendas. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3.4, have increased attention to NCDs by focusing on reducing premature mortality. In response, African countries, including Rwanda, have developed national strategies, such as Rwanda’s 2020-2025 NCD Action Plan, guided by global frameworks like the Global Action Plan for NCDs 2013-2030 and the Global NCD Compact 2020-2030. This session would explore the importance of National Strategic Action Plans, their development process and implementation plan for prevention and control of NCDs as well as the need for a whole of government approach through a high level national multi-sectoral coordination committee to ensure an effective NCD strategic action plan execution. This will be done through keynote presentations followed with a panel discussion offering a critical opportunity to assess progress, identify challenges, and learn from successful experiences from Rwanda and other countries about strategic planning and multi sectoral approach to NCD prevention, control and care.