National Cancer Institute Kenya

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  • Kenya Records 35,867 New Cancer Cases in Latest GLOBOCAN 2024 Estimates

    Kenya Records 35,867 New Cancer Cases in Latest GLOBOCAN 2024 Estimates

    Nairobi, Kenya – The latest Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) 2024 estimates indicate that 35,867 new cancer cases are diagnosed annually in Kenya, while 22,888 people die from the disease each year. The report also estimates that 76,165 people are living with cancer within five years of diagnosis. Compared to the GLOBOCAN 2022 estimates, the 2024 report reflects lower estimated numbers of new cancer cases, cancer-related deaths, and five-year prevalence. However, cancer remains a significant public health challenge, stressing the need for sustained investment in prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, research, and palliative care.

    According to the report, breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Kenya, accounting for 5,822 new cases (16.2%), followed by cervical cancer with 4,294 cases (12.0%), prostate cancer with 3,601 cases (10.0%), oesophageal cancer with 2,532 cases (7.1%), and colorectal cancer with 2,525 cases (7.0%).

    The report also highlights the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. Breast cancer remains the leading cause of cancer mortality, claiming 2,882 lives annually, followed by cervical cancer (2,606 deaths), oesophageal cancer (2,353 deaths), prostate cancer (2,199 deaths), and colorectal cancer (1,481 deaths).

    Among men, prostate cancer continues to be the most commonly diagnosed cancer, accounting for 3,601 new cases (25.9%), followed by oesophageal, colorectal, stomach, and leukaemia. Among women, breast cancer remains the leading cancer with 5,822 new cases (26.5%), followed by cervical cancer, colorectal cancer, oesophageal cancer, and ovarian cancer.

    The findings reaffirm the urgent need to strengthen Kenya’s cancer control efforts through enhanced public awareness, timely screening, early diagnosis, equitable access to quality treatment, palliative care, and sustained investment in cancer research. Early detection remains one of the most effective strategies for improving survival rates and reducing cancer-related deaths.

    The National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K) continues to coordinate the implementation of the National Cancer Control Strategy 2023–2027, which provides a comprehensive framework for reducing the country’s cancer burden through five strategic pillars: cancer prevention and early detection; diagnosis, treatment and palliative care; governance and financing; cancer registration, surveillance and research; and monitoring, evaluation, and strategic information.

    While Kenya has made significant progress in expanding access to cancer services, strengthening county cancer programmes, improving cancer surveillance, and fostering strategic partnerships, the latest GLOBOCAN estimates demonstrate that cancer remains a major public health challenge requiring increased investment and a whole-of-society response.

    NCI-K calls upon all Kenyans to prioritize healthy lifestyles, participate in recommended cancer screening programmes, seek medical attention promptly for persistent symptoms, and support national efforts aimed at reducing the burden of cancer. The Institute also urges continued collaboration among government, county governments, healthcare providers, development partners, academia, the private sector, and communities to accelerate progress towards a future where fewer Kenyans are diagnosed with cancer and more survive the disease.

    The GLOBOCAN 2024 estimates, published by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), provide the latest global and country-specific cancer incidence and mortality statistics and serve as an important resource for informing cancer control planning, policy development, and resource allocation.

  • Parliamentary Health Committee Commends NCI-K’s Progress, Pledges Support to Strengthen Cancer Control in Kenya

    Parliamentary Health Committee Commends NCI-K’s Progress, Pledges Support to Strengthen Cancer Control in Kenya

    Nairobi, July 19, 2026 – The National Assembly Departmental Committee on Health today paid a familiarization and oversight visit to the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K) headquarters in Upper Hill, Nairobi, where Members of Parliament received a comprehensive briefing on the state of cancer in Kenya, the Institute’s achievements, and the implementation of the National Cancer Control Strategy 2023–2027.

    The Committee, led by its Chairperson, Hon. Dr. James Nyikal, was received by the Chairperson of the NCI-K Board of Trustees, Dr. Timothy Olweny, and the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Elias Melly, alongside members of the Institute’s management team.

    During the engagement, the Committee was taken through Kenya’s current cancer burden, highlighting the latest GLOBOCAN 2024 estimates, which indicate 35,865 new cancer cases and 22,888 cancer-related deaths annually. The discussion highlighted the growing need for sustained investments in cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, palliative care, research, and surveillance to address the increasing burden of the disease effectively.

    The Committee also received an overview of the Institute’s mandate, key milestones, and the progress made in implementing the five strategic pillars of the National Cancer Control Strategy 2023–2027, which guide Kenya’s response to cancer through prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment, palliative care, governance, research, surveillance, and resource mobilization.

    Presenting the Institute’s status, Dr. Elias Melly acknowledged the significant progress made despite resource constraints. He noted that NCI-K has continued to coordinate national cancer control programmes, strengthen partnerships, enhance cancer awareness, support county governments, improve cancer surveillance systems, and advance research and policy development.

    However, the CEO emphasized that insufficient funding remains the single greatest challenge affecting the full implementation of the National Cancer Control Strategy and the Cancer Prevention and Control Act, 2012.

    “While the Institute has achieved remarkable milestones with the limited resources available, adequate and sustainable funding is essential for us to fully implement our statutory mandate and deliver comprehensive cancer control interventions across the country,” Dr. Melly noted.

    Members of the Committee commended the Institute for the notable achievements realized despite financial constraints, observing that the progress demonstrates prudent utilization of the resources allocated to NCI-K. They acknowledged the Institute’s growing impact in coordinating the national cancer control agenda and pledged to engage relevant government agencies to address the budgetary challenges affecting its operations.

    The Committee further stressed the importance of strengthening cancer research as a key pillar in reducing the country’s cancer burden. Hon. Dr. Robert Pukose, Member of Parliament for Endebess Constituency, emphasized that increased investment in research is critical to generating evidence that informs cancer prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and policy decisions. He called for enhanced funding to enable the Institute to establish and sustain robust cancer research programmes, a position that received unanimous support from the Committee members.

    The meeting also explored the management of Regional Cancer Centres across the country. Hon. Pauline Lenguris, Woman Representative for Samburu County, raised the need to strengthen the governance and coordination of these centres and proposed that their management be placed under the National Cancer Institute of Kenya to promote uniform standards, enhance coordination, and improve service delivery nationwide. The Committee noted the proposal for further consideration as part of ongoing discussions on strengthening cancer care systems.

    In his remarks, Dr. Timothy Olweny, Chairperson of the NCI-K Board of Trustees, thanked the Parliamentary Health Committee for its continued support and oversight, noting that Parliament plays a critical role in creating an enabling environment for effective cancer control through legislation, policy support, and adequate resource allocation.

    The visit reaffirmed the shared commitment between Parliament and the National Cancer Institute of Kenya to strengthen the country’s cancer response through increased investment, strategic partnerships, research, and sustainable financing. The Institute remains committed to working closely with Parliament, the Ministry of Health, county governments, development partners, and other stakeholders to accelerate the implementation of the National Cancer Control Strategy and improve cancer outcomes for all Kenyans.

  • NCI-Kenya Supports Historic Launch of Kilifi County’s First Cancer Centre.

    NCI-Kenya Supports Historic Launch of Kilifi County’s First Cancer Centre.

    The National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K) joined Kilifi County, development partners, and stakeholders in celebrating a major milestone in Kenya’s cancer control efforts with the official commissioning of the first-ever Cancer Centre at Kilifi County Referral Hospital.

    The landmark event, hosted by H.E. Governor Gideon Maitha Mung’aro, was attended by H.E. Arnaud Suquet, Ambassador of France to Kenya, Mr. Amin Mawji, OBE, Diplomatic Representative of the Aga Khan Development Network in Kenya, representatives from the Ministry of Health, county leadership, development partners, and other key stakeholders committed to strengthening cancer care services in Kenya.

    The establishment of the Cancer Centre marks a significant step towards improving access to quality cancer care for residents of Kilifi County and the wider Coastal region. For many years, patients seeking oncology services have been forced to travel long distances to access specialized treatment, often resulting in financial hardship, delayed care, and poor treatment outcomes. The introduction of chemotherapy services at the facility will bring life-saving treatment closer to patients and improve timely access to cancer care.

    NCI-Kenya played a critical role in supporting the realization of this milestone as part of its mandate to coordinate and promote cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, palliative care, research, and partnerships across the country. Through close collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Kilifi County Government, the National Cancer Control Programme, development partners, and healthcare institutions, NCI-K continues to support efforts aimed at decentralizing cancer services and strengthening cancer care infrastructure at the county level.

    The launch of the centre aligns with Kenya’s broader objective of expanding access to comprehensive cancer care and reducing disparities in service delivery. It also reflects the growing impact of strategic partnerships in advancing the national cancer control agenda.

    Looking ahead, Kilifi County has outlined plans to further strengthen the facility by establishing comprehensive oncology services, including radiotherapy through the acquisition of a Linear Accelerator (LINAC) and enhanced breast cancer screening through investment in digital mammography technology. These developments will contribute significantly to improving cancer outcomes through timely diagnosis and treatment.

    Speaking during the event, leaders acknowledged the importance of collaboration in making the project a reality. NCI-Kenya was recognized as one of the key partners whose technical support, coordination, and commitment contributed to the successful establishment of the Cancer Centre. The commissioning of the Kilifi County Cancer Centre marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s journey towards equitable cancer care. The facility brings hope to patients and families by expanding access to quality cancer services closer to home and reducing the burden of travelling long distances for treatment. NCI-Kenya remains committed to working with national and county governments, healthcare providers, and development partners to strengthen cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, and care services across the country.

  • KUKHA 2026: Advancing Health Innovation Through Kenya–UK Collaboration.

    KUKHA 2026: Advancing Health Innovation Through Kenya–UK Collaboration.

    Building a Healthier Future for Kenya and Africa

    The 4th Kenya–United Kingdom Health Alliance (KUKHA) One Health Research & Innovation Conference, taking place from 17–19 June 2026 at Jacaranda Hotel, Nairobi, brings together policymakers, researchers, healthcare professionals, academia, industry leaders, investors, and development partners to explore innovative solutions to some of the most pressing health challenges facing Kenya, Africa, and the world. Guided by the theme “From Challenges to Global Solutions Together: Building Kenya & Africa’s Health Innovation Future,” the conference serves as a platform to strengthen partnerships, share knowledge, and drive transformative action in healthcare.

    Plenary Session

    As Kenya and many African countries continue to experience a growing burden of non-communicable diseases, KUKHA 2026 places particular emphasis on cancer and kidney disease, both of which are increasing at alarming rates. Alongside these conditions, health security threats such as antimicrobial resistance (AMR) continue to challenge healthcare systems globally. Conference plenary sessions will examine the factors contributing to these trends and explore evidence-based strategies to improve prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and patient outcomes.

    Leading experts from Kenya and the United Kingdom will share insights on strengthening healthcare systems, improving access to quality care, and promoting sustainable interventions that can address current and future health challenges. Discussions will also focus on how international collaboration can accelerate progress and create lasting impact across the continent.

    Participants following the proceedings at the 4th KAKHU conference

    The conference recognizes that resilient health systems require strong emergency preparedness and response mechanisms. Through dedicated sessions on global standards in emergency medicine and health security, participants will explore innovative approaches adopted across different healthcare systems and examine lessons applicable to Kenya and Africa.

    One of the key highlights of KUKHA 2026 is the focus on local health manufacturing and innovation. As Africa seeks greater self-reliance in healthcare products and technologies, the conference will explore opportunities for strengthening pharmaceutical production, vaccine manufacturing, medical technology development, and commercialization of health innovations. Experts from government, academia, industry, and development organizations will discuss how strategic investments, supportive policies, and partnerships can help build a thriving health manufacturing ecosystem.

    Participants will also examine issues related to intellectual property, technology transfer, licensing, market shaping, and industrial parks as catalysts for economic growth and healthcare transformation. These discussions are expected to contribute to Kenya’s broader vision of becoming a regional hub for health innovation and manufacturing.

    Advancing Cancer Care and Research

    Cancer remains a major public health concern in Kenya and across Africa. Dedicated cancer tracks will focus on the burden of disease, healthcare gaps, partnership opportunities, diagnostics, oncology services, prevention strategies, genomics, clinical trials, and cancer care infrastructure. Participants will discuss the importance of early diagnosis, access to quality treatment, and the role of research in improving outcomes for patients.

    Sessions will also examine emerging issues such as climate-informed cancer prevention, the impact of aflatoxins, and the role of genomics in developing more effective and personalized treatment approaches for African populations. Through these conversations, stakeholders hope to identify practical solutions that can reduce cancer-related mortality and strengthen cancer care systems across the region.

    Promoting Universal Health Coverage

    Universal Health Coverage (UHC) remains a critical pillar of Kenya’s health agenda. KUKHA 2026 provides a platform for discussing how innovation, medical technology, digital health solutions, and strategic partnerships can support equitable access to healthcare services. Participants will explore ways to strengthen healthcare delivery systems, improve patient experiences, and ensure that quality care reaches all communities.

    The conference will also examine the role of healthcare financing, governance, and collaboration between national and county governments in achieving sustainable UHC goals. By sharing experiences and lessons from Kenya and the United Kingdom, stakeholders aim to identify scalable solutions that can improve health outcomes nationwide.

    The conference aims to facilitate meaningful outcomes, including new partnerships, investment commitments, collaborative projects, and pathways for strengthening Kenya–UK health cooperation. Discussions will focus on building sustainable mechanisms for accountability, follow-up, and continued engagement beyond the conference itself. As delegates gather in Nairobi, the conference provides a unique opportunity to shape the future of health innovation, foster meaningful partnerships, and advance the shared goal of healthier communities across Kenya, Africa, and the world.

  • Kenya Advances Technology-Driven Cancer Care.

    Kenya Advances Technology-Driven Cancer Care.

    The Chief Executive Officer of the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K), Dr. Elias Melly, joined the Cabinet Secretary for Health, Hon. Aden Duale, during a strategic engagement at Afya House with Prof. Eric Ford, Director and Vice-Chair of Medical Physics at the University of Washington and member of Bio Ventures for Global Health (BVGH), aimed at accelerating the transformation of Kenya’s cancer care system under the Universal Health Coverage agenda.

    Health CS, Hon. Aden Duale, leading the meeting.

    The discussions focused on the growing role of AI-enabled technologies, including systems already in use at Kenyatta National Hospital, in improving diagnostic precision, strengthening clinical decision-making, and enhancing efficiency in oncology care delivery.

    The meeting also explored expansion of radiotherapy services, strengthening referral linkages between national and regional cancer centres, digital learning platforms for specialized oncology training, early cancer detection through community health systems, and improved access to essential oncology medicines.

    The engagement reaffirmed a shared commitment to practical, technology-driven solutions that improve access, quality, and equity in cancer care delivery across the country. The Cabinet Secretary was joined by Dr. Stephen Muleshe, Director of Public Health and Sanitation, Dr. Isaak Bashir, Director of Family Health, and other senior Ministry of Health officials.

  • NCI-K Participates in the Ongoing IARC@60 Conference in Lyon, France.

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    The National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K) is participating in the ongoing IARC@60 Conference taking place from 19th to 21st May 2026 in Lyon, France.

    Held at the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and La Halle Tony Garnier, the conference has brought together experts, researchers, policymakers, and global health leaders from around the world to launch a bold new era in cancer prevention and control by translating scientific advances into impactful public health action.

    During the conference, Dr. Elias Melly, Chief Executive Officer of the National Cancer Institute of Kenya, delivered a presentation titled:

    “Strengthening Cancer Surveillance Systems in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Formal Mentorship Model for Capacity Building.”

    The presentation emphasized the urgent need to strengthen Population-Based Cancer Registries (PBCRs), develop sustainable local expertise, and build resilient cancer surveillance systems across Sub-Saharan Africa to support evidence-based policy and decision-making.

    Dr. Elias Melly Delivering a Presentation at the IARC@60 Conference.

    The IARC@60 Conference, themed “Cancer Research into Action,” is celebrating six decades of scientific excellence and global collaboration in cancer research while looking ahead to the future of cancer prevention and control. The conference highlights the transformative power of science in shaping healthier societies through data-driven policies, the discovery of emerging risk factors, and the strengthened communication of scientific evidence.

    The three-day conference is structured around three key themes:

    • Discovery and Innovation for Cancer Prevention
    • Translating Research into Public Health Action
    • Science-Policy Interface for Global Change

    NCI-Kenya remains committed to advancing evidence-based cancer control, strengthening regional and global partnerships, and supporting robust data systems necessary to guide cancer policy, prevention, treatment, and research across Africa.

  • Dr. Elias Melly Represents Kenya at the Commonwealth Health Coordination Forum on Cancer Ahead of the 79th World Health Assembly

    Dr. Elias Melly Represents Kenya at the Commonwealth Health Coordination Forum on Cancer Ahead of the 79th World Health Assembly

    Dr. Elias Melly, Chief Executive Officer of the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K), is representing Kenya at the inaugural Commonwealth Health Coordination Forum (CHCF) on the cancer agenda taking place in Geneva ahead of the 79th World Health Assembly.

    Held under the theme, “Shaping the Future of Cancer Across the Commonwealth,” the forum brings together Health Ministers, senior government officials, chief medical officers, global health leaders, Commonwealth Accredited Organizations, and strategic partners from across the Commonwealth to discuss the future of cancer prevention, treatment, research, and care.

    The inaugural CHCF, chaired by the Government of Guyana and led by H.E. Leslie Ramsammy, former Minister of Health and Permanent Representative of Guyana to the United Nations Office, is responding to the findings of the Lancet Oncology Commission on Cancer in the Commonwealth. The discussions are expected to shape the Commonwealth’s collective cancer agenda for years to come.

    Dr. Elias Melly, CEO of the National Cancer Institute of Kenya, at the Commonwealth Health Coordination Forum.

    The forum aligns with the 79th World Health Assembly agenda on non-communicable diseases (NCDs), Universal Health Coverage, the Immunization Agenda 2030, Kenya’s Vision 2030, and the Economics of Health for All.

    As Kenya’s representative, Dr. Melly is participating in high-level engagements focused on strengthening collaboration & partnerships, advancing equitable access to cancer care, and promoting coordinated global action in addressing the growing burden of cancer across Commonwealth countries.

    Objectives 

    • To facilitate dialogue on cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, and care informed by the findings of the Lancet Oncology Commission on Cancer in the Commonwealth
    • To share country experiences and best practices, and identify scalable solutions with particular attention to small and other vulnerable states
    • To support member countries in engaging with NCDs and cancer ahead of and during the WHA 
    • To explore potential collaboration among member countries, Commonwealth Accredited Organisations, and other international financial and development partners on financing the cancer agenda in the Commonwealth

  • The National Cancer Institute of Kenya Announces the Appointment of a Substantive CEO.

    The Chairman and Board of Trustees of the National Cancer Institute of Kenya is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Elias Melly as the Chief Executive Officer with effect from 1st May 2026.

    The appointment culminates after a competitive and rigorous recruitment process undertaken by the board recently. Dr. Melly is a seasoned medical professional with extensive experience in clinical cancer care, training, cancer research, health policy, and public health administration, holding various leadership positions in his career path. He brings a wealth of experience in strategic leadership at local, regional, and global levels. He has a proven track record of transforming cancer care across the entire continuum of care and in policy development and implementation. He is gifted in building impactful partnerships and collaborations and resource mobilizations towards cancer care.

    Dr. Elias Melly

    Dr. Melly holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBChB) from Moi University, Master of Medicine in Clinical Oncology and Nuclear Medicine from Alexandria University, Egypt, Master of Public Health from Moi University and Master of Business Administration from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa. Before his current role, he served as the Senior Medical Specialist and Head of the Haemato-Oncology Directorate at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Adjunct Faculty at Moi University School of Medicine and Cancer Research with AMPATH Oncology Institute. His global experience includes training and collaboration with multiple NCI-designated cancer centers in the United States, including Indiana University, Stanford University, University of California San Diego and University of Minnesota.

    Dr. Melly is Cancer Country Counterpart Lead for International Atomic Energy Agency, Member of Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), Global Oncology working Group under Association of American Cancer Institute (AACI) and Africa Oncology Cancer Network (AOCN). He has published in several peer reviewed journals. He is a registered medical practitioner with the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC), registered Clinical Oncologist, a member of the Kenya Medical Association(KMA), Kenya Society of Hematology and Oncology (KESHO), Clinical Radiation Oncology Society of Kenya (CROSK), African Organization for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC), American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) and American Society of Therapeutic Radiation Oncology (ASTRO).

    The Board of Trustees congratulates Dr. Elias Melly on his appointment and extends best wishes as he leads the Institute in advancing cancer care in Kenya.

  • NCI-K Expands International Partnerships to Strengthen Cancer Care for Kenyans

    NCI-K Expands International Partnerships to Strengthen Cancer Care for Kenyans

    The National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K) has embarked on a strategic collaboration with Yatharth Group of Hospitals (India), OLCURE, a digital healthcare platform, Fortis Cancer Institute, and Max Hospital, forming a strong multi-institutional network dedicated to improving outcomes for cancer patients in Kenya.

    NCI-K, represented by Dr. Nashat Fadhloon Noor, Ag. Head of Cancer Prevention and Control, held a working meeting in India to formalize the partnership and outline priority areas of cooperation, including enhancement of cancer care delivery, digital health integration, and specialist capacity building, as well as to broaden cooperation in cancer management and innovation.

    Representatives from the Yatharth Group of Hospitals, Fortis Cancer Institute, Max Hospital, OLCURE, and NCI-K.

    Key Areas of Collaboration

    1. Enhancing Patient Care & Referral Pathways

    The partnership aims to establish a structured international patient support system that enables:

    • Streamlined referral and coordination for complex cancer cases
    • Dual-doctor teleconsultations involving Kenyan specialists and Indian oncology experts
    • Clinical case validation before international treatment
    • Clear pathways for patients requiring advanced tertiary or quaternary care

    This collaborative framework ensures that Kenyan patients benefit from high-quality, timely, and well-coordinated care.

    2. Strengthening Digital & Telehealth Integration

    OLCURE will support the partnership as the central digital coordination platform, enabling:

    • Video consultations and multidisciplinary tumor board discussions
    • EMR-linked digital case management
    • Patient journey monitoring and follow-up
    • A unified telehealth ecosystem connecting Kenyan and Indian specialists

    This digital approach increases efficiency, reduces delays, and enhances specialist collaboration.

    3. Capacity Building for the Kenyan Oncology Workforce

    The collaborating institutions—Yatharth, Fortis, and Max—will work with NCI-K to build local capacity through:

    • Oncology training and skills-transfer programs
    • Short-term observerships and fellowships
    • Online CME sessions delivered via OLCURE
    • Joint academic, clinical, and research initiatives

    This will empower Kenyan oncology professionals with exposure to advanced techniques and technologies.

    4. Advanced Training, Observerships & Fellowships

    Indian partner hospitals will open opportunities for:

    • Certification programs in clinical and digital health
    • Robotic surgery training
    • Cross-specialty surgical and medical oncology skills development
    • Hands-on training in head and neck cancer surgery and other critical subspecialties

    These programs enhance Kenya’s capacity to manage complex cancers locally.

    5. Joint Clinical Outreach Programs

    The institutions will collaborate with NCI-K to conduct:

    • OPD outreach camps in Kenya led by visiting Indian specialists
    • Joint specialty clinics
    • Planned surgical camps  

    These outreach efforts will expand access to specialist care across underserved communities.

    Strengthening Kenya’s Cancer Care Ecosystem Through Collaboration

    The expanded partnership between NCI-K, Yatharth Group of Hospitals, Fortis Cancer Institute, Max Hospital, and OLCURE marks a major step toward transforming cancer care delivery in Kenya.

    NCI-K remains committed to forging strategic global partnerships that support prevention, early detection, treatment, and improved cancer outcomes for all Kenyans.

  • The National Cancer Institute of Kenya CEO, Dr. Elias Melly, at the “Our Voice” Cancer Awareness and Empowerment Forum, organized by Needy Cancer Health Initiative.

    The National Cancer Institute of Kenya CEO, Dr. Elias Melly, at the “Our Voice” Cancer Awareness and Empowerment Forum, organized by Needy Cancer Health Initiative.

    The Chief Executive Officer of the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K), Dr. Elias Melly, yesterday delivered a keynote address at the “Our Voice” Cancer Awareness and Empowerment Forum, organized by the Needy Cancer Health Initiative. The forum brought together various stakeholders in the industry, survivors, advocates, health professionals, and community leaders to strengthen public awareness and promote empowerment in the fight against cancer in Kenya.

    In his remarks, Dr. Melly reaffirmed the central role of the National Cancer Institute of Kenya in coordinating the country’s response to cancer prevention and control. Established under the Cancer Prevention and Control Act, NCI-Kenya provides leadership, oversight, and coordination of cancer programs across the country, including prevention, early detection, treatment, research, training, and public awareness initiatives. The Institute also advises the government on priorities on cancer control and works with partners to expand access to quality cancer services across all counties.

    Dr. Melly highlighted the government’s efforts to strengthen cancer financing through the Social Health Authority (SHA). He noted that the enhanced oncology benefit package now provides up to KSh 800,000 per patient annually for cancer care through the Social Health Insurance Fund and the Emergency, Critical and Chronic Illness Fund. This investment represents a major step toward reducing the financial burden of cancer treatment for Kenyan families and ensuring more equitable access to life-saving care.

    He urged Kenyans to enroll in the national health insurance program to safeguard themselves against the high costs associated with cancer treatment, emphasizing that universal health coverage remains a key pillar in the national response to cancer.

    The CEO emphasized the importance of research in improving cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment outcomes. Through its Research and Data Informatics Directorate, NCI-Kenya supports cancer research initiatives across the country and collaborates with local and international institutions to generate evidence that informs policy and clinical practice. Research plays a critical role in understanding Kenya’s unique cancer patterns and developing interventions tailored to the country’s needs.

    Dr. Melly also highlighted the significance of the National Cancer Registry, which operates under NCI-Kenya and serves as the country’s official source of cancer data. The registry collects, analyzes, and disseminates information on cancer incidence and trends, enabling policymakers, researchers, and health planners to make evidence-based decisions. Accurate cancer data is essential for planning prevention programs, allocating resources, and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions.

    In closing, Dr. Melly called for stronger collaboration among government agencies, civil society organizations, researchers, and communities to intensify cancer awareness, prevention efforts, and the dissemination of correct information. He emphasized that early detection, vaccination, screening, and healthy lifestyles remain the most powerful tools in reducing the burden of cancer in Kenya.

    “The fight against cancer requires a united effort,” he said. “Through awareness, research, strong health systems, and sustainable financing mechanisms, we can significantly reduce the cancer burden and ensure that every Kenyan has access to quality cancer care.”