The Ministry of Health through the National Cancer Control Program (NCCP) in collaboration with the Aga Khan University (AKU), convened a National Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Cervical Cancer Symposium to advance strategies for the prevention and control of cervical cancer in Kenya. The event brought together researchers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to deliberate on research, innovation, and evidence-based interventions to tackle one of Kenya’s leading health challenges.
In a speech read on his behalf by Gaudencia Gathecha Head of division of non communicable disease at MOH, Dr. Patrick Amoth, Director General of the Ministry of Health, underscored the urgent need to invest in research for impactful strategies. “Eliminating cervical cancer requires evidence-based, coordinated responses that deliver measurable outcomes,” Dr. Amoth emphasized.
Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Kenya, claiming the lives of 10 women daily. Over 75 percent of cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, exacerbating the socioeconomic and health burden on families and communities. Yet, as Dr. Amoth stressed, cervical cancer is both preventable and treatable through proven interventions such as HPV vaccination, early screening, HIV testing, and timely treatment.
Kenya’s commitment aligns with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2020 Global Strategy for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer. This framework sets ambitious targets for 2030, including vaccinating 90 percent of girls by age 18, screening 70 percent of eligible women, and providing timely treatment to 90 percent of those diagnosed. At the national level, these targets are being pursued through Kenya’s National Cancer Policy (2019–2030) and National Cancer Control Strategy.
Experts highlighted several milestones in Kenya’s fight against cervical cancer:
HPV vaccination program
Kenya has vaccinated 75 percent of adolescent girls with their first HPV dose, while 25 percent have received the second dose. The country is transitioning to a single-dose HPV vaccination regime to enhance coverage.
Expanded screening
Screening services have been scaled up to primary healthcare facilities, improving accessibility for women across the nation.
Introduction of HPV testing
This highly sensitive and effective screening method allows for early identification of high-risk individuals.
Strengthened referral systems
A robust referral framework ensures timely care for patients diagnosed with cervical or invasive cancer.
Government intensifies efforts to eliminate cervical cancer with national symposium
“These achievements demonstrate Kenya’s sustained commitment, innovation, and collaboration in advancing cancer prevention and treatment,” Dr. Amoth noted.
Research and partnerships with institutions such as Cambridge University, Aga Khan University, and the University of Nairobi have yielded valuable insights into HPV prevalence, vaccine efficacy, and the effectiveness of screening programs. “Findings from these studies inform policy decisions and guide targeted interventions to address emerging challenges,” Dr. Amoth explained.
He also emphasized the critical role of county governments in integrating cancer prevention, screening, and treatment into local healthcare systems. Strengthening collaboration between national and county levels is vital to ensuring equitable and sustainable healthcare outcomes.
Dr. Amoth called on stakeholders to intensify efforts in combating cervical cancer by promoting HPV vaccination, enhancing screening and early detection, integrating HPV testing into routine healthcare, and expanding treatment access in underserved regions. Raising community awareness and prioritizing research to bridge knowledge gaps were also highlighted as key priorities.
“By working together, we can save countless lives, reduce disparities, and make significant strides toward eliminating cervical cancer in Kenya,” he concluded.
The symposium reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to combating cervical cancer through collaboration, innovation, and evidence-based strategies, marking a significant step in the nation’s fight against this preventable disease.