Kenya Boosts Child Cancer Care with New KNH Oncology Unit and Lions Hope Hostel
The facility has been equipped with a state-of-the-art Elekta Versa HD Linear Accelerator (LINAC), enabling highly precise cancer treatment, particularly for complex cases such as brain tumours.
Health CS Aden Duale during the launch of the paediatric oncology unit and Lions Hope Hostel at Kenyatta National Hospital, a major boost to child cancer care in Kenya. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth sang
The country of Kenya achieved a significant victory against childhood cancer through the establishment of a newly built paediatric haemato-oncology outpatient clinic at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) and the inauguration of Phase I of the Lions Hope Hostel in Nairobi.
The dual development will create better access to specialized treatment facilities and support services for the whole country while the nation moves towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for children with cancer.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale delivered the launch speech to announce that the government will invest targeted resources to develop paediatric cancer treatment facilities.
“Children’s survival rates will improve when we establish early diagnosis systems together with treatment pathways and long-term follow-up care,” Duale said.
The Lions Hope Hostel establishes a vital support network which offers accommodation to patients and their caregivers who need to travel long distances for medical treatment. The facility will help patients financially while they will receive treatment through their facility.
The initiative supports Kenya’s National Cancer Control Strategy 2023–2027 which aims to establish partnerships that deliver patient-centered care to all. The Lions Clubs International Foundation works with the organization to build their infrastructure and provide their services.
The staff members at the facility operate a cutting-edge Elekta Versa HD Linear Accelerator (LINAC), which allows them to deliver highly accurate cancer treatment for complex medical situations including brain tumour cases.
The country has achieved its goal of enhancing medical results for pediatric cancer patients through advanced treatment technology and specialized care together with patient support services. The healthcare system in Kenya experiences a transformation through these innovative partnerships.
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