KCCA and Health Ministry Launch Five-Year Cancer Control Plan for Kampala

A groundbreaking five-year collaboration between Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), the Ministry of Health, and the City Cancer Challenge Foundation (C/CAN) promises to transform cancer care in Kampala. The partnership targets persistent challenges like delayed diagnoses and avoidable fatalities by establishing a seamless, patient-focused pathway from prevention and screening to treatment and follow-up.

KCCA Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki emphasized that this effort supports the authority’s Healthy Cities initiative to boost public health and productivity. “A thriving city requires shielding residents from preventable illnesses,” she stated, noting that Kampala will pioneer scalable solutions nationwide, turning cancer diagnoses into opportunities for effective care rather than fatal outcomes.

The strategy kicks off with a thorough citywide evaluation to pinpoint service weaknesses, especially in diagnostic delays and referral breakdowns. Isabel Mestres, C/CAN’s executive director, highlighted analyzing the entire patient journey to streamline processes, blending local leadership with international know-how tailored to urban realities.

Dr. Sarah Zalwango, KCCA’s public health director, outlined plans to expand screening at health centers, train staff for early detection, and prioritize prevalent cancers like cervical, breast, and prostate. Key elements include bolstering referrals to the Uganda Cancer Institute, enhancing data systems for better tracking, and launching community campaigns to encourage screening and combat stigma.

The initiative unites diverse partners, such as the Uganda Cancer Society, Palliative Care Association of Uganda, Hospice Africa Uganda, academics, and private entities, for comprehensive reforms.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)