Highlights from KICC 2024: “Advancing Cancer Care in Africa in a Rapidly Changing World”

The 8th Kenya International Cancer Conference (KICC) took place from November 21st to 23rd, 2024, at the Grand Royal Swiss Hotel in Kisumu, Kenya.

The event focused on advancing cancer care in Africa in a rapidly changing world. During this gathering, experts spotlighted the latest scientific discoveries and disruptive technologies that have significantly impacted the diagnosis and long-term management of cancer patients.

With the theme “Advancing Cancer Care in Africa in a Rapidly Changing World,” the conference brought together professionals and thought leaders to share knowledge and innovations shaping the future of cancer care in Africa.

KESHO:

“His excellency, Governor of Kisumu, Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o and first lady, Dorothy Nyong’o present at KICC2024.”

National Cancer Institute of Kenya:

“Day one of the Kenya International Conference, 2024, themed Advancing Cancer Care in Africa in a Rapidly Changing World has begun, thanks to the Kenya Society of Hematology and Oncology. Some of the key topics of discussion include:

1. Impact of AI and Digital Health in Cancer Care (Role of AI in Radiotherapy Contouring – African Perspective, Role of AI in the Cancer Care Continuum, Use of AI in Detection of Lung Modules at MTRH, Ethics in AI)

2. Health Financing (Health Financing Models in Africa, Social Health Authority in Oncology, Lessons from Health Financing in Rwanda)

3. Implementing the Breast Cancer Action Plan in Kenya etc.”

Miriam Mutebi:

“Engaging discussions happening at KICC2024 faculty development workshop. These critical sessions in partnership with AORTIC and KESHO are aimed at developing an innovative workforce that can handle the challenges of cancer care delivery in the world.

This workshop is supported by Queen’s Global Oncology Program and the Royal college of physicians and Surgeons of Canada and facilitated by faculty from Queens, AORTIC and KESHO.”

Stanley Wabomba:

“‘Specialised cancer services to be offered from mid next year at 4 public regional health facilities,’ Health CS Dr. Deborah Barasa has said at 8th Kenya International Cancer Conference in Kisumu.”

National Cancer Institute of Kenya:

“Dr. Elias Melly, CEO of the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K), facilitated a significant meeting between Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Debora Barasa Mulongo and distinguished representatives from the European Hematology Association (EHA).

The meeting, held at the KICC 2024, introduced Prof. Konstanze Döhner, EHA President-Elect, and Christoph Röllig, Executive Board Member, to the Kenyan healthcare landscape. EHA’s mission is to connect hematologists worldwide, advocating for the interests of hematologists and

hematology, supporting career development, and harmonizing hematology education. This strategic partnership aims to strengthen collaboration between Kenya and Europe in the field of hematology.

The two parties seek to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and management of hematological malignancies in Kenya.”

Nichodemus Amollo:

“Day 1 of the KICC2024 in Kisumu. Kisumu governor prof Anyang Nyongo officially launched the Kisumu county cancer Dashboard. Pleased to be part of the team that worked on this. Also, thank you to Eric. It took me 8 months of following his teachings to be here!!”

Zipporah Ali:

“Dr Abeid: pregnancy is possible after breast cancer treatment OncoFertility session by Dr. Abeid.”

National Cancer Control Program Kenya:

“Highlights from KICC2024, themed ‘Advancing Cancer Care in Africa in a Rapidly Changing World.’ Hosted by KESHO, the event brought together experts, advocates, and stakeholders to drive impactful change in cancer care.”

Stanley Wabomba:

“Kenya is exploring how to collaborate with the European Haematology Association on enhancing research, capacity building and patient care in cancer care.”

KESHO:

“Plenary 1: Impact of AI and Digital Health in Cancer Care
Dr Diana Pillay presenting on ‘Ethics in AI'”

Miriam Mutebi:

“Prof Scott Berry on the importance of building communities of practice as an essential component of thriving in academic practice!”

National Cancer Institute of Kenya:

“Our CEO, Elias Melly presenting on the Policy Perspectives in Cancer Prevention and Control at the Kenya International Cancer Conference, 2024.”

KESHO:

“KICC2024 conference chair, Dr Njoki Njiraini & Dr Abeid Athman.”

Miriam Mutebi:

“Wise words from Prof Nazik Hammad on career planning, transitions and succession mapping. Develop a vision, goals and time allocated. Develop a robust teaching portfolio.”

Deborah Mlongo Barasa:

“I had the privilege of joining experts, policymakers, and stakeholders at the 8th Kenya International Cancer Conference in Kisumu, under the theme ‘Advancing Cancer Care in Africa in a Rapidly Changing World.’ Cancer continues to be the third leading cause of death in Kenya, and we are dedicated to ensuring that all Kenyans have equitable access to life-saving care.

I am proud to announce that operational cancer centers in Nakuru, Mombasa, and Garissa will soon be joined by new centers in Kisumu, Kakamega, Meru, and Nyeri. These new regional centers will bring essential services closer to our communities, while also reducing the pressure on our national referral hospitals.

Through the Universal Health Coverage framework, the inclusion of cancer care packages under the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHA) is helping to alleviate the financial burden faced by patients and their families. We are also focusing on strengthening our workforce and partnerships to enhance early detection, treatment, and research.

A special thank you to the Kenya Society of Haematology and Oncology (KESHO), led by Interim President Dr. Helena Musau and Conference Chair Dr. Njoki Njirani, for organizing this important forum. I would also like to acknowledge the leadership of Dr. Timothy Olweny, Chair of the National Cancer Institute of Kenya, and CEO Dr. Elias Melly, for their unwavering commitment to fighting cancer in our country. Together, we are making great strides in advancing cancer care, ensuring that no one is left behind.”

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