On November 14, 2026, people of all ages and health conditions gathered in Lomé, Togo, for a march to raise awareness about diabetes. The event, which marked World Diabetes Day, was organized by four local associations: the Association Togolaise Contre le Pied Diabétique (ATCPD), the Association Togolaise du Diabète (ATD), the Association Les Amis de la Joie (ADJ), and Jeunes Intellectuels pour la Sécurité Alimentaire au Togo (JISA-TOGO). The march started at Atikoumé and ended at Lomégan, with participants wearing sneakers and sharing a common goal: to encourage early action against diabetes.
The event was part of a larger program that included a week of awareness-raising activities. During the week, medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and paramedics, received training on diabetes and hypertension management. Pharmacists also received updates on the latest developments in diabetes care. Additionally, free screenings were conducted at public health centers, markets, and other locations in the Grand Lomé area, with support from 15 to 20 pharmacies.
The march itself was a lively and inclusive event, with participants of all ages and health conditions joining in. Before the march began, participants had the opportunity to undergo free blood sugar testing. Many took advantage of this offer to learn about their health status before starting the march. At the end of the march, a collective exercise session was held, creating a convivial atmosphere where everyone could participate.
Dr. Kodjo Kossi Serge, a diabetologist, emphasized the importance of collaboration among associations in the fight against diabetes. He noted that the goal is to improve the quality of life for diabetics and reduce mortality rates, which he believes are high in Togo. The theme of the year, according to Dr. Kodjo, focuses on three key ideas: preventing the onset of the disease in those who do not have it, preventing complications in those who already have diabetes, and preventing patients with complications from falling into a dramatic situation.
The event aimed to highlight the importance of early action against diabetes. According to Dr. Kodjo, diabetes and hypertension are "silent killers" that often progress together. The training provided to medical professionals and pharmacists during the week-long program aimed to equip them with the necessary skills to manage these conditions effectively.
The collaboration among the four associations that organized the event sends a strong message, according to Dr. Kodjo. He emphasized that the fight against diabetes is a common one, requiring a united effort to achieve the goal of improving the lives of diabetics. The event concluded on a positive note, with participants showing enthusiasm and commitment to the cause.
The World Diabetes Day celebrations in Togo demonstrate the country's commitment to raising awareness about diabetes and promoting early action against the disease. With the support of local associations, medical professionals, and pharmacists, the event aimed to make a positive impact on the lives of diabetics and reduce the risk of complications associated with the disease.
Key points
- The event was organized by four local associations: ATCPD, ATD, ADJ, and JISA-TOGO.
- Free screenings were conducted at public health centers, markets, and other locations in the Grand Lomé area.
- Dr. Kodjo Kossi Serge emphasized the importance of collaboration among associations in the fight against diabetes.
