Tharaka Nithi County Prioritizes Cancer Care Initiatives with NCI-K Collaboration

Tharaka Nithi – 15^th May, 2025

As part of its continued efforts in engaging County Governments on the implementation of the County Action Plans, the National Cancer Institute of Kenya held a meeting with Dr. Rose Micheni, Chief Officer for Medical Services, Tharaka Nithi County. Represented by Chrisantus Wekesa, the Regional Head, they discussed strengthening devolved healthcare with a focus on cancer care. Dr. Micheni expressed strong appreciation for the National Cancer Institute of Kenya for its leadership in coordinating cancer control efforts and for engaging grassroots stakeholders in shaping responsive interventions.

She commended NCI-K’s inclusive approach and the strategic partnerships, as it spearheads efforts to support county governments in building sustainable cancer care systems. Dr. Micheni affirmed her commitment to rallying support within the County Assembly for legislation that advances cancer outcomes, notably, the establishment of a cancer centre in Tharaka Nithi; an initiative already endorsed by the County Assembly to reduce reliance on external facilities and improve local access to care.

Additionally, Dr. Micheni acknowledged the need for increased budgetary allocation to cancer services and committed to advocating for enhanced funding to support the county’s cancer response.

NCI-K is pleased to learn that this agenda enjoys the full backing of Dr. Micheni, H.E., the Governor Hon. Muthomi Njuki, and the county leadership, who are united in prioritizing cancer services.

Prior to this meeting, NCI-K engaged with the Tharaka Nithi County Health Management Teams (CHMTs), and among the key issues discussed were:

• Prioritization of Establishing a Cancer Centre. Given that the county currently lacks such a facility, this was identified as a critical need.
• Establishment of a Cancer Registry: The need for a functional cancer registry was emphasized to enhance data collection and inform planning.
• Public Education and Awareness:  A call was made to strengthen community sensitization and awareness on cancer prevention and early detection.
•  Implementation of the National Cancer Control Strategy (NCCS): The team expressed commitment to aligning county efforts with the NCCS for improved cancer control outcomes.

The Institute, through its dedicated staff, is fully determined, through constructive engagements, to support County Governments in implementing the National Cancer Control Strategy (NCCS), as discussed during the County Action Plans engagements.