24th June, 2025 – Nairobi, Kenya – In a significant step towards bolstering cancer prevention and control efforts across the nation, the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K) today hosted a strategic meeting with pharmaceutical giant, Pfizer. Held at the NCI-K offices in Nairobi, the discussions were led by NCI-K CEO, Dr. Elias Melly, and Pfizer leadership under the African Cluster, led by: Nick Lagunowich, President, Pfizer Emerging Markets. Others included: AbdelAli Besri, Vice President, Ismahene Benhidi, Senior Director, Dr Tamas Andras Koncz, Vice President, Medical Head, Allan Mackenzie, Director East & Southern Africa, Dr Osahon Omorodion, Medical Director, Dr Eva Njenga, Medical Director. The meeting centered on a shared vision and ambitious goals under the “Accord for a Healthier World” program.
A primary focus of the discussion was the critical issue of medicine availability for cancer patients. NCI-K strongly advocated for a reduction in the cost of these life-saving medications, emphasizing the need for greater affordability and accessibility for Kenyans battling cancer.
The conversation also delved into Kenyan cancer data. Dr. Melly highlighted NCI-K’s crucial role as the custodian of accurate cancer data, affirming that the Institute is now generating more precise national data. He noted that there has been an over-reliance on international estimates, such as those from Globocan, which often fall short in reflecting the precise local context. This commitment to robust, homegrown data will be instrumental in informing targeted interventions and policies.
Furthermore, research collaborations formed a key part of the agenda. Dr. Melly passionately advocated for increased support for local cancer research. He articulated the challenge of relying heavily on foreign research and molecules for patient treatment, emphasizing that Kenyans are genetically different and therefore require research tailored to their unique genetic makeup to optimize treatment efficacy.
In a candid moment, the NCI-K CEO also raised pertinent questions about the usefulness of major global platforms like ASCO (American Society of Clinical Oncology) for low and middle-income countries (LMICs). He observed that discussions at such conferences often revolve around new molecules and innovator Health Products and Technologies (HPTs) for which LMICs frequently lack the necessary human resource capacity. While acknowledging this gap, he specifically commended Pfizer for recognizing this niche and actively working to fill it, indicating a positive collaborative path forward.
This strategic meeting marks a crucial juncture in Kenya’s fight against cancer, signaling a renewed commitment to collaborative, data-driven, and contextually relevant approaches to prevention, control, and care. NCI-K’s collaboration with Pfizer under the Accord for a Healthier World program promises to unlock new avenues for sustainable advancements in cancer management across the country.
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