6th November 2025 – The National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K), in collaboration with the Kajiado County Health Management Team, is conducting a cancer and Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) sensitization campaign during the ongoing annual Maa Cultural Festival held at the Amboseli National Park, Kajiado County.
This initiative seeks to leverage the high number of Maasai community members, convening from across the three Maa Counties of Narok, Kajiado, and Samburu, organized under the framework of the Maa Economic Bloc (MAAEB). The event provides a strategic platform for us to share important government policies on health and create awareness, specifically focusing on demystifying the cultural cancer myths, as well as promoting healthy lifestyles. To ensure that cancer information permeates deep to the grassroots level, the institute developed and translated the IEC materials into the local language, cognizant of the varying cultural values of our communities.
This one-week activity will feature sessions including:
Education & awareness Sessions: Interactive talks and materials in local languages to educate the community on cancer prevention, early signs, and the importance of screening.
Direct Screening Services: On-site screenings for breast, cervical, and prostate cancers.
Apart from the County Government of Kajiado, the Institute has also collaborated with key partners, including Women for Cancer and AstraZeneca, demonstrating a shared commitment to fighting and reducing cancer incidences in Kenya through early detection and prevention.
We are exited to announce that Kenya, through the National Cancer Institute of Kenya, has won a bid to host World Cancer Leaders’ Summit, 2027. The event running from 24th to 28th November is Organised by UICC and hosted the National Cancer Institute of Kenya, the Summit’s return to Africa highlights the continent’s growing leadership role in global cancer control.UICC is pleased to announce that the World Cancer Leaders’ Summit 2027 will take place in Nairobi, Kenya, from 24 to 28 November.Hosted by the National Cancer Institute of Kenya, the Summit will be held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), a landmark venue in the heart of Nairobi.
“The World Cancer Leaders’ Summit brings together voices from every region to shape the future of cancer control. Holding the Summit in Nairobi ensures that Africa’s experiences and priorities are part of that global conversation. By convening in Africa, the Summit will ground its discussions in the lived realities of communities most affected by rising cancer burdens, ensuring that strategies are shaped by those confronting these challenges most directly.”– Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, President-elect of UICC, and Founder and CEO of Medicaid Cancer Foundation.
The World Cancer Leaders’ Summit is a high-level policy event that brings together decision-makers, civil society leaders, researchers and private sector partners to shape the global cancer agenda. The 2027 edition will provide a platform for strategic dialogue, regional collaboration and the sharing of innovative approaches to cancer control.
“It is a privilege to welcome the global cancer community to Nairobi for the 2027 World Cancer Leaders’ Summit. This return to Africa after the Summit in Cape Town in 2013 highlights the growing leadership role that the continent is playing, and offers a unique opportunity to engage with the challenges and progress shaping cancer across Africa, as well as to strengthen regional and global partnerships.”– Miriam Mutebi, Member of the UICC Board of Directors, Member of the UICC Board of Directors, Breast surgical oncologist and health systems researcher at the Aga Khan University, Kenya.
By hosting this historic event, NCI-K has demonstrated and solidified its position as a leading cancer institution, not only in Africa but also globally. We believe that through these high-level engagements, the battle against cancer will be won.
The nation-wide campaign in commemoration of the Breast Cancer Awareness Month continues as the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K) partners with Mwai Kibaki Referral Hospital, AstraZeneca, Microbiology East Africa Limited, and Grounds for Health, in Othaya, Nyeri County.
This activity is aimed at improving community engagement and promoting cancer prevention through free cancer screening services, including breast, cervical, and prostate cancer, as well as public education and awareness sessions.
Also featured are patient journey experiences and survivor testimonials aimed at inspiring patients and caregivers while fostering a deeper understanding of cancer care and management.
Throughout these exercises, NCI-K aims to:
1. Promote awareness of breast, cervical, and prostate cancers, with a focus on early detection, timely intervention, and preventive measures.
2. Provide free cancer screening services to at least 500 individuals from the surrounding community.
3. Educate and empower the public on healthy lifestyle practices and self-examination techniques that contribute to cancer risk reduction.
4. Strengthen partnerships among collaborating institutions and community stakeholders to support sustainable cancer control initiatives.
5. Encourage continuous screening and follow-up care through established community health structures and hospital-based clinics.
As we strive to achieve our mission of reducing cancer incidence in the country, we urge members of the public to take advantage of these free cancer screening initiatives. Remember, early detection saves lives; your life matters.
The next stop in our nationwide campaign on education, awareness, and free cancer screening takes us to the Northern frontier of Kenya, Mandera County. The institute is leaving no stone unturned, ensuring no region is left behind in accessing information about cancer and benefiting from the free cancer services offered in partnerships with like-minded stakeholders and collaborators, thus ensuring health equity across the country.
NCI-K will ensure all the marginalized communities are not left behind in this fight against cancer; education and awareness are the key factors in these campaigns that ensure the debunking of pervasive myths and cultural misconceptions surrounding cancer.
To ensure this is achieved, the institute has partnered with Superlative Healthcare, a local health care facility that understands the local community better in offering free screening on breast, prostate and cervical cancers as we culminate towards the end of breast cancer awareness month, October, Superlative Healthcare will also ensure that our message packaging are consistent and are culturally sensitive to the local community, thus maximizing our impacts.
The institute is glad to report a positive reception of the local community towards our initiatives in prevention, with women leading on readiness to be screened. With the dedication of the NCI-K staff, guided by its top leadership, the Institute remains confident that these sustained efforts will contribute significantly to reducing cancer incidence in the country.
Today, the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K) together with partners including Alexandria Cancer Centre, Eldoret Oncology Associates, Uhai Life Sciences, and Catholic University of East Africa participated in a free cancer screening exercise in Eldoret City, as well as celebrating cancer warriors, an activity organized by The Solace Cancer Foundation, a non-profit organization championing cancer prevention, early detection, and comprehensive support for every person affected by cancer to access dignified care in Kenya. This is part of the continued efforts by NCI-K to increase cancer education, awareness, and screening nationwide in commemoration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Screening services offered included breast, cervical, and prostate cancer.
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Notable people present included the National Assembly Deputy Speaker, Hon. Gladys Boss Shollei, and Uasin Gishu County leadership represented by County Executive Committee member, Mrs Joyce Sang.
Advocating for cancer prevention, Hon. Shollei mentioned the continued efforts to expedite the formulation of regulations to remove the banned hazardous herbicides from Kenyan markets, urging members of the National Assembly to work to protect the Kenyan population from these cancer-causing products. “These products have been banned in foreign countries, but still find market access in Kenya.” According to her, Kirinyaga County has the highest prevalence of cancer, and the highest county using the same products. The National Assembly leader encouraged members of the public to continue registering with the Social Health Authority to enjoy the benefits of Universal Health Coverage.
Cancer champions and advocates in the walk.
Dr. Rebecca Omollo, the Founder of The Solace Cancer Foundation, and a breast cancer survivor, thanked the National Cancer Institute of Kenya for the efforts it is putting in combating the cancer menace in the country, specifically, she thanked the CEO, Dr. Elias Melly, for leading in the cancer advocacy, policy formulation, and support to County governments.
The institute’s continued partnership efforts are in line with our mission and objectives of eradicating conditions that cause and aggravate the spread of cancer, as well as working to ensure the implementation of the five pillars in our National Cancer strategic plan, 2024-2027. The nationwide campaign aims to encourage members of the public to prioritize their health by embracing the free screening initiatives launched by the national government.
The fight against breast cancer is gaining momentum in Western Kenya Region as the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K) intensifies its nationwide campaign on breast cancer awareness and screening as we commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October). The spotlight now shines on the Western Region Chapter, an initiative that unites public and private partners to deliver free cancer awareness, education, and screening services directly to the people.
With breast cancer remaining one of Kenya’s leading causes of cancer-related deaths, early detection has proven to be the most effective weapon in saving lives. Cognizant of this fact, NCI-K has coordinated a strong coalition to lead the campaign in the region.
NCI-K has teamed up with the Busia County Government, Global Health Innovations, and GoodHope Hospitals and Clinic. With this kind of teamwork, we are ensuring that breast cancer awareness, education, and screening reach women where they live and work.
One of the major concerns in the region is stigma and myths about cancer; to address this, the institute, through our childhood cancers champion, Mercy Osoro, is dispelling these myths, misconceptions, and stigma by sharing her experiences. Mercy is a 20-year-old cancer survivor working at the Directorate of Cancer Prevention and Control.
The National Cancer Institute of Kenya’s efforts to reduce the national cancer burden have advanced with an expanded collaboration. Dr. Ouma Oluga, Principal Secretary for Medical Services, hosted representatives from the Merck Foundation and NCI-K, led by CEO Dr. Elias Melly, to formalize this partnership.
The meeting, held today, the 29th of October, 2025, at Afya House in Nairobi, focused on strengthening collaboration in cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment.
The discussions were centered on transforming the cancer care continuum in the country, from prevention to treatment, by expanding joint programs that will significantly enhance cancer diagnosis and management. The partnership strategically merges the Merck Foundation’s global expertise with Kenya’s growing healthcare infrastructure.
This collaboration is focused on actionable steps to improve access and quality, particularly in underserved communities, including prioritizing early detection, Affordable Treatment Access, and Patient Support Initiatives.
Dr. Oluga strongly emphasized that such partnerships are vital for achieving the government’s goals of quality and equitable healthcare access. “Cancer is one of the fastest-rising health challenges globally. By joining forces with partners like Merck Foundation and NCI-K, we can strengthen our health system’s capacity to prevent, detect, and treat cancer early, saving more lives,” said Dr. Oluga.
The joint initiatives will bring a positive effect in regard to: building capacity across the entire healthcare system, enhancing public awareness, and ultimately contributing to a significant reduction in Kenya’s cancer burden. This alliance powerfully reinforces the Ministry’s commitment to delivering accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare for all citizens
On this Mashujaa Day, we honor the heroes who have dedicated their lives to serving our nation, and we proudly recognize our CEO, DrEliasMelly, as one of Kenya’s modern-day heroes.
Your tireless work at the National Cancer Institute of Kenya, is a testament to the true meaning of service. Leading the fight against cancer is a challenge that demands immense courage, empathy, and strategic vision—qualities you embody every single day.
We especially celebrate the recent, well-deserved recognition from Huduma Kenya. Your commitment to collaboration and citizen-centric service delivery is changing how healthcare is accessed in our country, ensuring that life-saving cancer care is brought closer to every Kenyan.
Thank you for your leadership, dedication, and unwavering hope. You are a beacon of inspiration to the entire NCI-K team and a genuine Shujaa whose impact is measured in the lives you help save and the hope you restore to families across Kenya.
Dr. Melly is a true national hero, recognized not only for his medical expertise as an Oncologist, but also for his vision in transforming cancer care access.
His leadership as a true national hero in oncology has revolutionized Kenya’s cancer care landscape. His efforts are comprehensive, ranging from establisment of the Chandaria Cancer Centre at MTRH, as a founding member, to his commitment to decentralizing care across marginalized counties, successfully leading the opening of oncology centers in Turkana County, Samburu County, and establishing the Kwale Oncology Centre in Kwale County, among others. Furthermore, he is dedicated to empowering homegrown solutions by securing funding for Kenyan cancer research and building the national cancer data registry that provides evidence-based policy direction, ensuring all Kenyans receive the high-quality, localized care they deserve.
The National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K), together with key partners BD (Becton Dickinson) and Pfizer, concluded a three-day co-created oncology workshop today at Lake Naivasha Resort. The session, which began on 13th October, brought together over 50 oncology professionals from Kenya’s major private, referral, and county hospitals.
The workshop was attended by strong representatives from leading medical institutions, including Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral, and Research Hospital (KUTRRH), Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital, Garissa Referral Hospital, The Nairobi Hospital, Aga Khan University Hospital, and MP SHAH. These Kenyan professionals engaged directly with experts from BD’s Dubai and South Africa offices, as well as Pfizer’s regional team, reinforcing a joint commitment to innovation, safety, and equitable access in cancer care.
Festus Kamau, from BD, demonstrating the use of PICC and PORTS (vascular access management devices)
The primary focus of the workshop was the mainstreaming of cancer health products and technologies across the end-to-end supply chain, ensuring that Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is realized through accessible, available, and affordable quality reagents, medical supplies, and drugs. This commitment is anchored by critical access programs, including the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Pfizer Accord for a Healthier World and the Ministry of Health (MoH). These programs have already led to a significant reduction in the cost of cancer care, covering novel therapies based on current evidence. Additionally, BD ensures the availability of essential oncology-related products such as specialized cannulation devices and biopsy collection tools.
A highlight of Day Two was a dedicated breakout session on Oncology Quantification, led by Mr. Geoffrey Magwi from KEMSA, which provided an opportunity for structured quantification of oncology molecules across the participating facilities. The session underscored KEMSA’s critical role in ensuring the last-mile supply of oncology medicines to both public and private sector facilities. Through this session, participants explored harmonized approaches to forecasting, procurement, and distribution to ensure uninterrupted access to quality cancer medicines.
Participants actively follow the session presentations
A high-level panel discussion on “National Frameworks for Oncology Medicines and Biosimilars” was another centerpiece of the event, featuring experts from the Directorate of Health Products and Technologies (DHPT), the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB), the Social Health Authority (SHA), KEMSA, and the oncology fraternity. The discussion highlighted the urgent need for Kenya to develop a national biosimilar framework to ensure the quality, safety, and cost-effectiveness of oncology medicines, aligning with the country’s broader access and regulatory goals.
Dr. Michelle Nguu from the National Cancer Institute of Kenya emphasized the importance of transitioning from dialogue to implementation — particularly in operationalizing strategies discussed during the workshop. She stressed the Institute’s commitment to supporting structured coordination, evidence generation, and technical guidance to enhance oncology service delivery. Dr. Nguu also announced the formation of a BD-led Technical Working Group to pilot vascular access management guidelines in one of Kenya’s public hospitals, focusing on the clinical application of Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters (PICCs) and implanted ports to improve patient safety and treatment outcomes.
The workshop was officially closed by Dr. Elias Melly, CEO of the National Cancer Institute of Kenya. In his keynote address on “Strengthening Cancer Care in Kenya,” Dr. Melly commended the progress achieved under the National Cancer Control Strategy (NCCS) 2023–2027 and reaffirmed NCI-K’s commitment to advancing collaborative frameworks that improve equitable access to quality oncology care nationwide.
The three-day event concluded with a clear synthesis of lessons and priorities, driving forward the collective goal of building a harmonized, evidence-driven, and patient-centered approach to cancer care delivery in Kenya.
Every October, during Liver Cancer Awareness Month, we at the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI–K) join the global health community in raising awareness about one of the world’s most preventable yet deadliest cancers, liver cancer. Liver cancer rarely announces itself until it’s too late, yet this deadly disease is largely preventable through vaccination, screening, and healthier lifestyle choices. Every year, we renew our commitment to educating the public, promoting early detection, and empowering Kenyans to take proactive steps for their health. With cases on the rise locally, it serves as a stark reminder that awareness without action is insufficient. Let’s fight back together!
The Growing threat in Kenya
Liver cancer ranks among the country’s top causes of cancer-related deaths, with hundreds of new cases reported annually. A 2022 media report referencing data shared by NCI–K CEO Dr. Elias Melly noted that liver cancer was the 11th deadliest cancer in Kenya, with over 800 new cases recorded that year.
“Kenya is seeing a growing cancer burden linked to preventable risk factors,” Dr. Melly has emphasized in several public statements. “Strengthening prevention, from hepatitis B vaccination to public education, remains the foundation of saving lives.” This institutional focus aligns with the national goal of expanding cancer screening and vaccination programs, particularly in counties where access to diagnostic services remains limited.
Expert Perspective: ‘A Silent Epidemic’
In an interview on NTV’s Your Health Show, Kenyan oncologist Dr. Andrew Odhiambo described liver cancer as “a silent epidemic” that often goes unnoticed until it’s too advanced for treatment.
“By the time many patients arrive in hospital, their liver is already beyond repair,” Dr. Odhiambo noted, urging Kenyans to take early screening and vaccination seriously. His warning reflects a broader concern among clinicians: that low awareness, delayed diagnosis, and untreated hepatitis infections are driving the country’s liver cancer cases.
Preventing Liver Cancer: Knowledge, Vaccination, and Early Screening
As NCI–K, we continue to emphasize that most cases of liver cancer can be prevented through informed choices and proactive health practices. Vaccination against hepatitis B, one of the leading causes of liver cancer, remains the single most effective preventive measure. We also urge Kenyans to avoid excessive alcohol consumption, ensure proper food storage to prevent aflatoxin contamination, and seek early screening, especially for individuals living with chronic hepatitis or a family history of liver disease. Maintaining a balanced diet and engaging in regular exercise further protects against fatty liver disease and its related complications.
Through sustained public education, partnerships, and nationwide campaigns, NCI–K remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring every Kenyan can access accurate information, early detection, and quality preventive services in the fight against liver cancer.
From awareness to action
Liver cancer does not announce itself, but its prevention depends on awareness and timely action. This Liver Cancer Awareness Month, we urge all Kenyans to discuss screening and vaccination with their healthcare providers.
“Early detection saves lives. Our goal is to move Kenya from late diagnosis to early prevention,” says Dr. Melly.
