World Kidney Day 2023 in Gabon: strong mobilisation for the prevention of kidney disease

To mark World Kidney Day, celebrated on 9 March 2023, Gabon rallied around a national campaign to raise awareness of kidney disease and screen for it. Focused on prevention, this initiative brought together the health authorities, health professionals, patients and several public figures committed to promoting kidney health.

Ambassador Serge Abessolo stands alongside patients

As official ambassador of World Kidney Day in Gabon, Serge Abessolo visited the National Haemodialysis Centre and several haemodialysis centres in Greater Libreville to meet people living with kidney failure.

The visit was marked by moving conversations. The ambassador took the time to listen to patients’ testimonies, learn about their daily lives and offer words of encouragement. Through his presence, he reminded everyone that kidney disease can affect anyone, regardless of age, sex or social status.

An invitation to free screening

Through this campaign, the organisers invited the entire population to follow the ambassador’s example by attending the free consultations held at several screening sites for World Kidney Day.

Screening is simple, quick and essential. It makes it possible to identify kidney problems early and to begin treatment before more serious complications appear.

Prevention remains one of the most effective ways of fighting chronic kidney disease today.

Two days devoted to awareness-raising

As part of this 2023 edition, the National Haemodialysis Centre exceptionally opened its doors on Wednesday 8 March, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., to welcome the public for free consultations and screening.

In the afternoon, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., a scientific conference brought specialists together to discuss prevention, early diagnosis and the management of kidney failure.

On 9 March, several consultation sites continued screening activities across the country, giving a large number of citizens a free kidney health check.

The authorities lead by example

The campaign was also marked by the participation of the highest health authorities. The Minister of Health and the Minister Delegate were screened and took part in the various awareness activities, demonstrating their commitment to the prevention of kidney disease.

Their participation reinforced the main message of the day: everyone is concerned by the health of their kidneys, and early screening can save lives.

A prevention message for everyone

Kidney failure is a genuine public health issue. Often silent at first, it can progress for several years without visible symptoms. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, monitoring blood pressure, controlling diabetes and getting screened regularly are all steps that help preserve kidney health in the long term.

World Kidney Day 2023 thus highlighted the importance of prevention, awareness and solidarity with people living with kidney disease.

Let’s take care of our kidneys, for a healthier life and a healthier future.