Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, UICC President-Elect of 2024-2026 and a Founder and CEO of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“The African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC-Africa) 15th International Conference on Cancer in Africa, was held in Hammamet, Tunisia (2nd -5th Nov). It reaffirmed the continent’s growing leadership and collective determination to shape the future of global cancer control.
On the first day, I shared my perspective under the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) lens during the session ‘Health as an Investment in Africa’ – emphasising that investing in cancer control remains both a moral imperative and a social and economic necessity.
I also highlighted UICC’s continued commitment to expanding its presence and partnerships across Africa. It was a proud moment to announce that the next World Cancer Leaders’ Summit will be held in Kenya, bringing the world’s cancer leadership conversation back to Africa.
On the second day, I joined a dynamic panel moderated by Dr. Miriam Mutebi, where discussions centred on strengthening cancer control measures. Speaking as UICC President-Elect, I reflected on the progress made and the gaps that persist in implementation.
Civil society organisations, policymakers, and all stakeholders must continue to play stronger roles in ensuring that cancer control policies are translated into measurable action. The session featured powerful contributions from Rugengamanzi Eulade and Dr. Theoneste Maniragaba of Rwanda, Gladwell Kiarie, and a survivor Prisca Githuka — each highlighting the critical role of CSOs and youth involvement in sustaining policy reform.
Day Three featured the UICC National Cancer Control Plan (NCCP) session themed ‘Improving Health Systems for Cancer Through National Cancer Control Planning – UICC Members’ Perspective.’ As the moderator, I engaged with outstanding experts, including Dr. Christian Ntizimira, Eman Shannan from Gaza, and Dr. Annet Nakaganda, as we explored how strong national plans anchored in accountability, inclusion, and evidence-based strategies can drive sustainable change.
Significantly, along with partners like the World Health Organization, IARC – International Agency for Research on Cancer/World Health Organization, and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), UICC has supported 30 LMICs to develop national cancer control plans.
Throughout the conference, I engaged with survivors, partners, and stakeholders at the UICC stand, each interaction reinforcing the power of partnership and collective vision in advancing cancer prevention and care across Africa.
It was a successful conference and I extend my congratulations to Prof. Cesaltina Lorenzoni, the new AORTIC President, succeeding Dr. Miriam Mutebi. Well done, Miriam and the organizing team.”
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