The Comorian ministry of health has partnered with five organizations, including the French Development Agency, World Diabetes Foundation, and Helmsley Charitable Trust, to launch a new project aimed at combating diabetes. The project, titled "Agir tôt contre le diabète" (Act early against diabetes), was launched by the NGO Santé diabète on November 3 at its headquarters. The project will run for three years, from 2026 to 2029, and will focus on the islands of Mwali, Ndzuani, and Ngazidja.
The project has an estimated budget of over 557 million Comorian francs. According to Dr. Rachmat Athoumane, coordinator of the NGO Santé diabète, the project will focus on four main areas: empowering civil society organizations to better organize the fight against diabetes, strengthening training for healthcare personnel, raising awareness at the community level, and capitalizing on actions taken and sharing expertise with citizens and partners.
Dr. Athoumane explained that the project aims to improve the prevention and early detection of diabetes, particularly type 1 and 2. In 2025, nearly 11% of the population was recorded to be suffering from type 2 diabetes, with 1-2% of those cases remaining undiagnosed. The project also aims to improve the management of diabetes and reduce the number of complications and deaths associated with the disease.
According to data from the ministry of health, in 2025, there were 2,128 patients with type 2 diabetes being followed up by healthcare structures, with 18 deaths recorded. For type 1 diabetes, 47 patients were identified, and 56 patients were being managed for complications, including pregnant women. The project aims to increase awareness and education about diabetes, particularly in schools.
Ania Mohamed, secretary general of the ministry of health, encouraged the NGO to continue its efforts, particularly in raising awareness about diabetes. She emphasized the importance of securing data and achieving expected results. The 36th edition of World Diabetes Day will be celebrated in Comoros, as is customary.
The project will also focus on strengthening the capacity of civil society organizations to organize the fight against diabetes. This will involve training and empowering these organizations to take a more active role in raising awareness and promoting prevention and early detection.
The launch of the project marks a significant step forward in the fight against diabetes in Comoros. With the support of international partners and local organizations, the ministry of health aims to make a significant impact in reducing the prevalence and complications of diabetes in the country.
Key points
- The project has an estimated budget of over 557 million Comorian francs.
