The burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Kenya is projected to worsen, with health advocates warning that years of chronic underfunding and weak policy frameworks are fueling the crisis.

A coalition of seven tobacco-control and public health organizations under the Kenya Tobacco and Nicotine Tax Coalition (KTNTC) sounded the alarm over the weekend, highlighting a mismatch between the growing threat of NCDs and the government's response.

The group says Kenya’s health financing remains insufficient and poorly targeted, despite the rising toll of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions.

Following an assessment of national budget allocations from the 2021/22 financial year to the latest 2025/26 proposal, the coalition expressed concern that NCDs have yet to be prioritized.

Although the health sector received a Sh11 billion increase rising to Sh138.1 billion in 2025/26 from Sh127.1 billion in the previous year advocates note that the figures lack clarity on specific allocations for NCD-related interventions.

“This persistent underfunding, combined with policy loopholes, is contributing to preventable deaths and illness,” the coalition said, calling for clear and increased allocations to NCDs in future budget cycles and stronger policy implementation.

The organizations include the Kenya Tobacco Control and Health Promotion Alliance (KETCA), National Taxpayers’ Association (NTA), International Institute for Legislative Affairs (IILA), Consumer Information Network (CIN), Students Campaign Against Drugs (SCAD), Den of Hope, Kenya Network of Cancer Organizations (KENCO), and Non-Communicable Diseases Alliance Kenya (NCD Alliance Kenya).

The coalition warned that limited financial support hampers the rollout of preventive and treatment programs, while gaps in national NCD guidelines and execution further weaken the country’s ability to contain the growing burden.

“NCDs are no longer rare they are becoming widespread and are placing immense pressure on our already strained health system,” the organizations noted.

Findings from the KTNTC’s Joint Budget Analysis reveal significant shortcomings in Kenya’s approach to NCDs, showing inadequate funding, poor policy implementation, and weak service delivery.

NCDs are now responsible for over 40% of all deaths in the country, underlining the urgency of a coordinated and well-funded national response.