It is with great humility and gratitude that I was elected to serve as the Secretary to the Caucus of Patient Led Organizations (PLOs). The election which took place at Crown Plaza Nairobi saw the representatives of the PLOs convene to usher in new crop of leaders who will serve for the next one year.
The Caucus of Patient Led Organizations brings together all organizations that are members of the NCDs Alliance of Kenya (NCDAK). As a group under NCDAK, the Caucus conduct several advocacy activities and represents the voice of those with lived experience of NCDs. People living with lived experience of NCDs offer a unique and powerful insights into issues and challenges of tackling NCDs on a day-to-day basis. Additionally, individuals living with NCDs and their caregivers are best placed to narrate their story, owing to the fact that they posses’ first-hand knowledge which cannot be provided by any other person.
I applaud NCDAK for giving member organizations an opportunity to lead their own projects/activities. The technical and financial support which NCDAK has provided over the years has seen the caucus grow and increase its membership. The meaningful involvement of people living with NCDs is a critical element of an effective NCDs response. From policymaking to awareness raising, clinical trials, academic research, advocacy, organizational governance, and more, people living with NCDs can contribute to many different facets of the NCD response and act as role models breaking barriers to inclusion and active involvement.
As I join the Caucus as the Secretary, I pledge to be diligent and committed to the cause. I look forward to working together with other elected leaders to steer the caucus to greater heights and on growth path.
ODUOR KEVIN 