The Kenya Network of Cancer Organizations (KENCO), a coalition of over 55 cancer-focused civil society groups, recently engaged with Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) in Kisumu to explore deeper collaboration in cancer control.
Led by Prisca Githuka KENCO Board Secretary and Executive Director Ms. Phoebe Ongadi, the visit included a consultative meeting on potential partnership areas and coincided with a two-day training on the third edition of the Cancer Education Materials for Patients and Caregivers (CEMPC).
Developed in partnership with the Ministry of Health’s National Cancer Control Program (NCCP) and the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the CEMPC has undergone thorough medical review to ensure accuracy and relevance. KENCO aims to leverage these resources to enhance cancer awareness, improve knowledge, and dispel myths surrounding the disease.
“Our goal is to ensure patients and caregivers have access to reliable information,” said Ms. Ongadi. “By equipping communities with the right knowledge, we can improve cancer outcomes.”
Beyond education, KENCO remains a key advocate for timely cancer diagnosis and access to affordable treatment. During the meeting, Dr. Jerome Katumba, Deputy Head of Oncology at JOOTRH, emphasized the need to distribute CEMPC materials to healthcare workers in peripheral facilities. He also advocated for the use of local vernacular media to reach a wider audience and promote early cancer detection.
“Early detection is crucial in the fight against cancer,” Dr. Katumba noted. “Leveraging local media will help us reach those who may not have access to mainstream information.”
Highlighting JOOTRH’s commitment to community engagement, Mr. David Onoka, Secretary for Training, pointed to the hospital’s active participation in medical camps, which have significantly improved healthcare access for local residents.
Prisca and Ms. Ongadi commended the JOOTRH team for their warm reception and reiterated the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing cancer care. Ms. Teresa Okiri, Director of Nursing Services at JOOTRH, echoed this sentiment, expressing appreciation for KENCO’s support.
“Partnerships are essential in addressing the complexities of cancer care,” Ms. Okiri stated. “We value KENCO’s collaboration and look forward to working together to improve patient outcomes.”
This engagement underscores the shared commitment of both KENCO and JOOTRH to strengthening cancer care, raising awareness, and enhancing patient support systems across Kenya. Moving forward, both organizations aim to ensure that quality cancer services remain accessible to all.