Nairobi — The Ministry of Health has launched a renewed national push to expand cancer care services across Kenya, aiming to bridge the gap in diagnosis and treatment amid a sharp rise in cancer-related deaths. At a national cancer forum held Monday at Eden Convention Centre in South C, Nairobi, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale announced a new commitment to increase cancer care access as part of the government’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.
“We are building a system where no Kenyan should have to fight cancer alone or without access to proper care,” CS Duale stated.
Kenya reports an estimated 48,000 new cancer cases annually, with over 32,000 deaths, according to data presented at the forum. The leading obstacles include late-stage diagnosis, shortage of specialized health workers, and uneven distribution of treatment facilities across the country.
The one-day conference brought together senior health officials, pharmaceutical companies, cancer advocacy groups, and hospital administrators to map out strategies for improving cancer care delivery.
Dr. Elias Kelly, the CEO of the National Cancer Institute, said public awareness has improved but access to care still lags. “We need to match awareness with real access meaning facilities that can diagnose, treat, and support patients without unnecessary delays,” he said.
Speakers highlighted the urgent need to equip county hospitals with modern diagnostic tools, expand oncology training for medical personnel, and improve referral systems for faster patient movement between facilities.
A representative from Roche Pharmaceuticals stressed that improving access to cancer drugs must be accompanied by investment in infrastructure and skilled workers. “Policy and coverage must be matched by infrastructure and expertise,” the official said.
Hospitals such as Nairobi West were acknowledged for scaling up oncology units through public-private partnerships, helping to ease pressure on national referral hospitals.
Panelists also raised concerns over the fragmentation between national and county efforts. They urged better coordination through the Social Health Authority (SHA) to ensure patients receive continuous and affordable care.
In his closing remarks, CS Duale called for a united national approach to beat the rising burden of cancer. “We are committed to leading this process, but it requires all hands public and private to deliver quality cancer care to every corner of the country,” he said.
The Ministry of Health plans to expand cancer centers, increase training opportunities for healthcare workers, and strengthen public awareness campaigns in the months ahead as part of a broader cancer control strategy.
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