Patients and medical experts gathered in Nairobi, Kenya, to demand improved care and more affordable treatment for psoriatic disease [1].
This movement seeks to address a critical gap in healthcare across the continent, where the disease is often under-recognized and effective treatments remain out of reach for many. By bringing together policymakers and clinicians, the forum aimed to shift how the condition is managed and prioritized in public health agendas.
The event, which took place from May 7-9, 2026 [1], served as the first Africa Forum on Psoriasis. The gathering included a diverse group of stakeholders, including researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and representatives from patient organizations [1]. These participants focused on the urgent need for greater inclusion of patients in treatment decisions and the systemic barriers that prevent quality care.
Attendees highlighted that the high cost of medication and a lack of specialized knowledge among some healthcare providers contribute to poor patient outcomes [1]. Because the disease is frequently overlooked, many patients do not receive a timely diagnosis, which can lead to severe complications and a diminished quality of life.
The forum called for urgent action to increase the availability of effective therapies across Africa [1]. Experts said the current state of psoriasis care is insufficient and requires a coordinated effort between governments and health organizations to ensure that patients are not left behind in the global advancement of dermatology.
By focusing on patient-centered care, the forum emphasized that treatment is not merely about medication but about the holistic inclusion of the person living with the disease in the decision-making process [1].
“The disease remains severely under-recognised, costly and access to effective treatment is limited across Africa.”
The establishment of this forum signals a growing recognition of non-communicable diseases in African healthcare systems, which have historically prioritized infectious diseases. By centering the patient experience and highlighting the financial barriers to care, the movement aims to pressure regional governments to integrate dermatology into broader public health strategies and reduce the cost of specialized medication.
