Uganda is facing a growing public health concern as cancer cases continue to rise, prompting urgent calls for strengthened prevention, early detection, and treatment efforts.
In response, the Kampala Capital City Authority has signed a partnership agreement with the City Cancer Challenge Foundation, a global initiative focused on improving access to quality cancer care in cities worldwide. The agreement is expected to enhance cancer screening and treatment services for residents of Kampala.
According to Jackson Orem, Executive Director of the Uganda Cancer Institute, the country is witnessing an alarming cancer burden. He revealed, “approximately 350,000 people develop cancer each year, while an estimated 270,000 die from the disease.”
Dr. Orem noted that a significant number of patients come from rural areas, where access to early diagnosis and specialized treatment remains limited. He explained, “this gap contributes heavily to late-stage diagnoses and poor survival outcomes.”
To address these challenges, the Ministry of Health, KCCA, and the Uganda Cancer Society have joined efforts with the City Cancer Challenge Foundation through its C/Can Network. The collaboration aims to strengthen Uganda’s cancer care systems by focusing on prevention, early detection, treatment, and patient follow-up.
Speaking after the signing ceremony, Sharifah Buzeki emphasized, “cancer is treatable when detected early.” She urged Kampala residents, “to prioritize regular medical check-ups to enable timely diagnosis and effective management of the disease.”
Buzeki added that the partnership will ensure that individuals diagnosed with cancer receive comprehensive care, including proper follow-up throughout their treatment journey. She stressed, “building a coordinated and patient-centered system is key to improving survival rates.”
Meanwhile, Sarah Zalwango outlined the most common types of cancer affecting the population. She highlighted ongoing interventions by KCCA, including public awareness campaigns, screening programs, and support services aimed at reducing the burden of the disease.
Dr. Zalwango noted, “strengthening community outreach and expanding access to screening services remain critical in tackling the growing cancer crisis.”
Health experts believe that with sustained collaboration, increased public awareness, and improved healthcare infrastructure, Uganda can make significant progress in reducing cancer-related deaths and improving the quality of life for patients.
The new partnership marks a crucial step toward a more coordinated and effective national response to cancer, offering hope to thousands of Ugandans affected by the disease