A new report by the Access to Medicine Foundation has revealed a troubling gap in care for children and young people living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) like Kenya.
Despite efforts by major pharmaceutical companies, access to insulin and essential diabetes tools remains out of reach for most children in these regions.
The report shows that global efforts are not reaching the majority of those who need help. Companies such as Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk, Sanofi, and Biocon support less than 10% of the estimated 825,000 children living with Type 1 Diabetes in 71 low- and middle-income countries.
Claudia Martínez, Director of Research at the Access to Medicine Foundation, said that although some progress has occurred, far too many children still lack access to proper diabetes care.
In countries like Kenya, many children rely on outdated forms of insulin that require refrigeration and careful dosing, two major challenges in areas with limited resources. Although companies have introduced modern insulin pens and analogues in select programs, these remain scarce and inaccessible to most.
“These newer treatments are more effective and easier to use, but they are not widely available,” Martínez added.
The report also highlights efforts beyond medicine. Sanofi’s KiDS program, for example, trains teachers and school staff to support children with diabetes. Meanwhile, companies like Lilly and Novo Nordisk are helping improve health facilities and provide vital equipment.
But there’s a catch: most of these programs depend on donations and have expiry dates. Ten of the 11 initiatives studied will end within the next five years, raising serious concerns about what happens when the donations stop.
“Donations help in the short term, but they’re not sustainable,” Martínez warned. “If companies pull out, thousands of children could suddenly lose life-saving care.”
Some companies are exploring longer-term solutions by partnering with governments and local health systems. In a few cases, they’ve even lifted age restrictions so young adults can continue receiving support.
Still, the Foundation insists that real change must come from building strong, affordable healthcare systems. It urges pharmaceutical companies to go beyond donations by lowering the cost of insulin, improving access to modern treatment tools, and creating solutions tailored for children.
“Insulin is still out of reach for half the people who need it,” Martínez said. “For many children, this isn’t about living well, it’s about staying alive.”
The report calls on leaders in business and government to act urgently and compassionately. The tools to fix the problem exist. We need commitment now.
Until then, for many children in Kenya and across the developing world, living with Type 1 Diabetes will remain a daily struggle for survival.
