Kenya Explores AI-Driven Cancer Care Reforms as Duale Meets Global Health Expert
Kenya is advancing AI-driven cancer care reforms following high-level talks between Health CS Aden Duale and global experts, focusing on improving diagnosis, treatment access, and oncology services under Universal Health Coverage.
Cabinet Secretary for Health Aden Duale. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
Kenya is accelerating efforts to modernise its cancer care system following a high-level meeting between Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale and global oncology expert Prof. Eric Ford at Afya House.
The engagement brought together officials from the Ministry of Health and representatives from University of Washington and Bio Ventures for Global Health (BVGH), focusing on advancing cancer care under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.
Discussions centred on the growing role of artificial intelligence in healthcare, with officials noting that AI-enabled technologies already deployed at Kenyatta National Hospital are improving diagnostic accuracy, strengthening clinical decision-making, and enhancing efficiency in oncology services.
“We are committed to leveraging innovation and partnerships to transform cancer care and ensure equitable access to quality services for all Kenyans,” Duale said.
The meeting also explored strategies to expand radiotherapy services, reduce delays between diagnosis and treatment, and strengthen referral systems through a coordinated hub-and-spoke model linking national and regional cancer centres.
Other key focus areas included digital training platforms for oncology specialists, strengthening clinical research capacity, promoting early cancer detection through community health systems, and improving access to essential cancer medicines through more efficient procurement and supply chains.
The engagement reaffirmed a shared commitment to practical, technology-driven solutions aimed at improving access, quality, and equity in cancer care across the country.
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