The Kenya Network of Cancer Organisations (KENCO) marked this year’s cancer awareness celebrations with a call for stronger policies, early screening and improved access to treatment for all Kenyans affected by cancer.
Phoebe Ongadi, KENCO Executive Director, emphasised that collective action remains key to reducing cancer-related deaths in the country.
“We must strengthen community-based awareness, promote early screening and ensure that no patient is left behind due to cost or stigma.” She urged men to come out and get screened.
“KENCO calls on the government to expand oncology coverage under the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). Currently, survivors receive KSh 400,000, which is insufficient. I urge the government to increase it to at least Sh1.2 million to prevent treatment abandonment due to financial constraints,” said Ongadi.
She further called for cancer to be declared a national disaster, citing its position as the third leading cause of death in Kenya, noting that it would help mobilise resources.
Dr Elias Melly, CEO at the National Cancer Institute of Kenya, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding oncology services and supporting advocacy networks. He called for more investments in cancer care infrastructure, particularly in counties where access to specialised treatment remains limited.
Anne Avonde, from the National Taxpayers Association, stressed the importance of smart tax policies that aim to address risk factors such as tobacco use. She explained that tobacco-related cancers include the mouth, lung, throat and bladder.
“Every cigarette sold is a future patient in our hospitals. By making tobacco products less affordable, we can reduce cancer incidences, cut medical costs and save thousands of lives every year,” noted Avonde.
KENCO’s members, drawn from organisations across Kenya, used the Scars to Stars occasion to reaffirm their commitment to patient-centred advocacy.
They pledged to continue pushing for policies that make cancer treatment affordable and ensure the inclusion of cancer services in the national health insurance schemes.
