Soraya Mellali: Breast Cancer in Africa – A Policy and Economic Priority
Soraya Mellali, Council Chair at
“Two weeks after AHAIC 2025 in Kigali, Rwanda, as global aid priorities shift and new challenges emerge, I find myself reflecting on the powerful discussions that brought together health leaders, policymakers, and experts to shape the future of healthcare in Africa. The energy in the room was undeniable, and one message stood out: it is time to move from talk to action, from dependency to ownership.
The urgency of securing sustainable solutions has never been greater, particularly for breast cancer, where global funding shifts risk widening disparities in access to care.
With the Africa Breast Cancer Council, we convened a high-level session on Bridging Disparities: Advancing Breast Cancer Care for African Women, bringing together ministers, policymakers, and experts to address critical gaps and explore scalable, country-led solutions.
Key challenges in Africa include:
- Late-stage diagnoses
- A younger patient population
- Limited access to timely and affordable treatment
I left Kigali inspired by the bold conversations we had with leaders driving change, reshaping breast cancer care, not just as a health issue but as an urgent policy and economic priority. Countries like Rwanda, Côte d’Ivoire, and Egypt are proving that with political will, strategic investment in early detection, and sustainable financing models, they not only save lives, but strengthen national health systems and economies.
A transformational shift is already underway in Africa, but it must be sustained and accelerated.
In my recent article, Breast Cancer in Africa: A Policy and Economic Priority, I explore these powerful lessons and what it will take to turn progress into a continent-wide movement.
Let’s build on the strategies and solutions discussed, exchange knowledge, and strengthen collaboration to ensure that breast cancer care becomes a lasting policy and economic priority across Africa.
What lessons from your country’s experience should be highlighted?
What policy shifts are needed to close the gap?
Grateful for the insightful discussions with ministers, policymakers, and Africa Breast Cancer Council members at AHAIC 2025, including Minister Sabin Nsanzimana, Minister Raymonde Goudou Coffie, Hesham ElGhazaly, Magda Robalo, Miriam Mutebi, Karen Nakawala.
With appreciation for the contributions of my fellow Council members Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, Selma Gadria, Verna Vanderpuye, and Carol-Ann Benn, who could not join us.
And to our partners Caitriona Hennessy, Paul M. Chilwesa, and the Council Secretariat for their support.
Looking forward to continuing the conversation.”
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