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Principal Secretary Harry Kimtai is at the forefront of a determined effort to tackle the pressing challenges surrounding cancer care accessibility in Kenya. In a proactive move, Mr. Kimtai, who heads the State Department for Medical Services, orchestrated a strategic meeting today to discuss critical aspects of the City Cancer Challenge Nairobi initiative and its integration with the overarching objectives of the Ministry’s Cancer Strategy.
At the gathering, key stakeholders in the fight against cancer joined forces, bringing their expertise and insights to the table. City Cancer Challenge CEO Isabel Mestres, Dr. Githinji Gitahi, Chair of NCI-Kenya Board & CEO of Amref Health Africa, and NCI CEO Dr. Elias Melly were notable participants in the discussions that ensued. The primary focus of the meeting was to assess the progress of the City Cancer Challenge Nairobi initiative and explore ways to harmonize its goals with the broader cancer strategy outlined by the Ministry.
One notable collaboration highlighted by Mr. Kimtai involves a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Ministry, the Nairobi City County Government, and City Cancer Challenge. This collaborative effort aims to streamline the response of the health sector to the escalating cancer burden faced by Kenya. The MOU is a testament to the concerted effort to create a unified front against the multifaceted challenges posed by cancer.
During the meeting, Principal Secretary Kimtai underscored the ongoing initiatives, including a comprehensive city-wide needs assessment in Nairobi. This assessment seeks to delve into the intricacies of the existing healthcare landscape, identifying both capacities and challenges in accessing cancer care. The ultimate goal is to craft locally-driven solutions that are sensitive to the unique needs and nuances of the community.
In essence, the strategic today meeting serves as a pivotal moment in the collaborative efforts to address the complex issues surrounding cancer care in Kenya. By bringing together key players, aligning initiatives, and emphasizing local solutions, the stakeholders involved are actively working towards a more effective and sustainable approach to tackling the formidable challenges presented by the growing cancer burden in the country.
