What You Need to Know
On April 11, 2026, Mauritius launched the National Prevention Programme for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) as part of World Health Day. The initiative aims to improve public health through screenings and education, addressing the high prevalence of NCDs like diabetes and hypertension. Key officials emphasized the importance of early detection and digital health advancements.
Africa-Press – Mauritius. In the context of World Health Day observed on 07 April, the Ministry of Health and Wellness launched, on Saturday 11 April 2026, the National Prevention Programme for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) at the Bel Air Rivière Sèche Mediclinic. Under the 2026 theme, “Together for health. Stand with science”, the initiative highlights the need for collective efforts and evidence-based strategies to improve public health.
The programme seeks to bring essential healthcare services closer to communities while fostering a culture of prevention and early detection. It includes a range of activities such as NCD screenings—covering diabetes tests, blood pressure monitoring, Body Mass Index and body composition analysis, vision tests, and medical consultations—as well as breast and cervical cancer screenings, nutrition awareness through the Food Plate Model, and health education sessions.
The launch was attended by several dignitaries, including the Minister of Health and Wellness, Mr Anil Kumar Bachoo; the Minister of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation, Dr Avinash Ramtohul; the Junior Minister of Health and Wellness, Ms Anishta Babooram; and the World Health Organisation Resident Representative in Mauritius, Dr Abdou Salam Gueye.
Speaking at the event, Minister Bachoo underscored the importance of regular screenings, particularly for individuals who may be unaware of underlying conditions. He stressed that early detection enables timely intervention and better health management, urging the public to prioritise routine medical check-ups. He further noted the high prevalence of NCDs such as diabetes, hypertension, and cancers in Mauritius, calling for sustained vigilance and proactive health practices. Ongoing initiatives, he added, are aimed at enhancing healthcare quality and overall health outcomes.
Minister Ramtohul, for his part, highlighted advancements in the digitalisation of the health sector. He announced the upcoming introduction of a new feature on the KOREK Super App, which will allow citizens to self-register and book appointments with specialist doctors, thereby improving access to care and boosting the efficiency of e-health services in Mauritius.
World Health Day is celebrated annually on April 7, focusing on global health issues. The theme for 2026, ‘Together for health. Stand with science,’ emphasizes collective efforts in health promotion. Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) have become a significant public health challenge worldwide, including in Mauritius, where they account for a large portion of health issues. The launch of the National NCD Programme reflects a proactive approach to combat these diseases through community engagement and preventive measures.
