On January 31, 2025, Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, led the commemoration of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, emphasizing the importance of shifting focus from a curative approach to prevention and health promotion. Speaking in Nyandarua County, PS Muthoni reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to tackling cervical cancer by prioritizing prevention strategies, such as early screening, vaccination, and timely treatment, all aimed at saving lives and improving health outcomes.
During her address, PS Muthoni highlighted the deployment of Community Health Promoters (CHPs) as a vital strategy to enhance access to essential health services, particularly in underserved areas. She explained that CHPs are key players in ensuring that communities are informed about cancer prevention and the importance of early detection, making cancer services more accessible to the public. This initiative is part of the broader health policy to bring services closer to the community, ensuring that prevention and treatment efforts are not just focused in urban centers but also reach rural and remote areas.
PS Muthoni also announced the launch of the National Cervical Cancer Elimination Action Plan, which will be developed in collaboration with ThinkWell. The plan will include a detailed, costed action plan, an investment case, and an advocacy framework. These efforts are designed to support Kenya in its ambitious goal to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030. The action plan aims to address the root causes of cervical cancer by focusing on improving awareness, increasing access to screenings, and promoting the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination program, which has proven to be an effective preventive measure.
In addition to these measures, PS Muthoni pointed out that Kenya is one of only three African countries participating in the WHO AFRO Women Integrated Cancer Services (WICS) project. This initiative strengthens efforts to prevent, detect, and manage breast and cervical cancers, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and mental health issues through an integrated primary healthcare approach. The project’s holistic strategy ensures that health systems are better equipped to handle these critical areas of public health, reinforcing the importance of early intervention and a comprehensive approach to healthcare.
As she marked the conclusion of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, PS Muthoni underscored that the fight against cervical cancer does not stop with this observance. She reiterated the importance of continued efforts in raising awareness about the preventability of cervical cancer, stressing that early screening, HPV vaccination, and access to timely treatment are essential for saving lives. PS Muthoni called on all stakeholders, including healthcare providers, policymakers, and community leaders, to continue working together to ensure that no woman is left behind in accessing the services necessary to prevent and treat cervical cancer.
The Government’s commitment to eliminating cervical cancer aligns with global health goals and demonstrates a proactive stance in addressing the challenges posed by cancer in Kenya. By focusing on prevention, early detection, and education, Kenya aims to significantly reduce the incidence and mortality rates associated with cervical cancer, ultimately improving the health and well-being of its citizens.
This comprehensive approach reflects the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration, involving various actors within the health sector, as well as the general public. Continued advocacy, education, and investment in cervical cancer services will play a crucial role in achieving the 2030 goal. With strong leadership, the support of the community, and commitment from all levels of government, Kenya is taking significant steps toward eliminating cervical cancer and improving the overall health of its population.
