The National Cancer Institute of Kenya successfully commemorated World Cancer Day in Turkana County, marking a significant milestone in the fight against cancer in the region. The event was graced by the presence of His Excellency, Hon. Jeremiah Ekamais Lomorukai Napotikan, Governor of Turkana County, and Dr. Elias Melly, CEO of NCI-K, among other distinguished leaders.
The highlight of the event was the official launch of the oncology center at Lodwar Referral Hospital. This momentous occasion signifies a major step forward in improving access to cancer treatment and management for the people of Turkana County.
A historic first occurred on this World Cancer Day 2025, as the inaugural chemotherapy session was administered at the newly established facility. Dr. Elias Melly, CEO of NCI-K, personally administered the first dose in the presence of the Governor, marking a crucial step in reducing the turnaround time for cancer treatment and alleviating the burden on patients who previously had to travel 360 kilometers to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) for care.
During the event, NCI-K also launched a pilot program for colorectal cancer screening in the county. This initiative builds upon existing cancer screening efforts already underway in the region. Notably, HPV vaccination campaigns have been successfully implemented across all primary schools in Turkana County.
Throughout the week leading up to World Cancer Day, NCI-K provided a team of dedicated nurses who actively participated in screening and treating patients, demonstrating a commitment to providing immediate and accessible care. Furthermore, Dr. Melly himself spent time within the clinic, personally seeing patients. This hands-on leadership set a powerful example for all, emphasizing the importance of direct patient interaction and demonstrating a commitment to the well-being of the community.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Melly emphasized NCI-K’s commitment to collaborating closely with Turkana County to ensure accessible and equitable cancer care for all residents. He reiterated the government’s unwavering dedication to leaving no one behind in the fight against this disease.
Governor Napotikan expressed his profound gratitude to NCI-K for prioritizing the needs of Turkana County and its people. He pledged his full support for the newly established oncology clinic, ensuring it receives all the necessary resources to operate effectively. Furthermore, the Governor committed to fully equipping the “Beyond Zero” mobile clinic, enabling it to effectively reach communities across the county and provide vital cancer screening services to the people.
To ensure the smooth and sustainable operation of the oncology clinic, Dr. Melly pledged to sponsor the training of one oncology doctor at the facility. Furthermore, medical professionals from MTRH will be making regular monthly visits to Lodwar County Referral Hospital (LCRH) to provide consultation and support in the management of cancer patients.
Dr. Melly expressed his unwavering support and commitment to the successful functioning of the oncology clinic. While acknowledging the potential challenges that may arise in establishing and maintaining the center, he expressed confidence in its success, drawing upon his experience in establishing the oncology center at MTRH, which also faced initial hurdles before achieving its current success.
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