Thousands of Kenyans Join DMI Annual Diabetes Walk to Raise Awareness and Support Children Living with Type 1 Diabetes

 By Christopher mbiti 

Nairobi, Kenya|11 July 2026,

Thousands of Kenyans has today Saturday gathered at the Carnivore Grounds in Nairobi for the 2026 Kenya Diabetes Management and Information Centre (DMI) Annual Diabetes Walk, a campaign aimed at raising awareness about Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) while mobilizing resources to support children and young adults living with the condition.

The annual event, held under the theme "Let's Walk, Give, and Change Lives Together," brought together government officials, healthcare professionals, development partners, corporate organizations, caregivers, families, and members of the public in a united call to improve access to quality diabetes care across the country.

Organizers said the walk sought to educate the public on the importance of early diagnosis, reduce stigma surrounding diabetes, and generate funds to help children and young adults living with Type 1 Diabetes access life-saving treatment and support services.

Speaking during the event, officials from the Kenya Diabetes Management and Information Centre noted that many children living with Type 1 Diabetes continue to face numerous challenges, including inconsistent access to insulin, blood glucose monitoring supplies, limited public awareness, stigma, and difficulties managing the condition in school environments.

They also highlighted the financial burden placed on families by the lifelong management of diabetes, emphasizing the need for greater investment in healthcare systems that ensure uninterrupted access to medication, regular clinic visits, and quality diabetes care for all patients.

Healthcare professionals who participated in the walk urged Kenyans to seek early screening for diabetes and encouraged communities to support those living with the disease instead of discriminating against them. They stressed that increased awareness can help prevent complications through timely diagnosis and proper management.

The event also provided a platform for caregivers and beneficiaries to share their experiences, highlighting the daily realities of living with Type 1 Diabetes and the importance of emotional, social, and medical support.

Since its inception in 2001, the DMI Annual Diabetes Walk has grown into one of Kenya's leading diabetes awareness campaigns, bringing together stakeholders from across the health sector to advocate for improved diabetes care and better health outcomes for vulnerable patients.

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The organizers expressed appreciation to all partners, sponsors, volunteers, and participants who took part in this year's walk, saying their support would contribute significantly to improving the lives of children and young adults living with Type 1 Diabetes in Kenya.