As we commemorate World Diabetes Day on 14th November under the theme “Diabetes Across Life Stages,” we also reflect on the broader theme for the period 2024 to 2026 “, Diabetes and Well-being.”

The 2025 focus, “Diabetes and the Workplace,” carries the slogan: “Know more and do more for diabetes at work.” This year’s campaign aims to enhance the overall well-being of people living with diabetes by promoting access to care, support, and healthy work environments that foster productivity and inclusion.

In alignment with this global call, the Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, celebrates the remarkable achievements of the PEN-Plus clinics, a groundbreaking initiative that addresses severe and chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in children and young adults across Zambia.

With support from the NCDI Poverty Network and the Scottish Government, PEN-Plus has transformed healthcare delivery in low- and lower-middle-income settings by integrating chronic care services into first-level hospitals. This approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care closer to their communities rather than relying solely on tertiary hospitals.

The programme improves accessibility and quality of care for conditions such as Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), sickle cell disease (SCD), and rheumatic and congenital heart diseases, empowering young patients and their families to manage their health effectively while improving long-term outcomes.

Currently, Zambia has five PEN-Plus clinic sites: Matero Level One Hospital (Lusaka), Mwachisompola Level One Hospital (Chibombo), and Kapiri Mposhi District Hospital, all of which are supported by the NCDI Poverty Network.

The two sites, recently launched at Chifubu Level One Hospital in Ndola (Copperbelt) and Chipata District Hospital (Eastern Province), are supported by the Scottish Government through its International Development Programme.

This year’s World Diabetes Day, we encourage both the young and the elderly to seek services from our PEN Plus sites and other health facilities across the country. Have your blood sugar checked. If diagnosed, start the treatment as advised by your health professionals. Maintain a healthy diet and engage in regular physical activity.