31/10/2025
NCI-K Participates in “Stars to Scars” Season II by KENCO
Theme: Bridging the Gap: Access to Breast Cancer Services and Support
Venue: Best Western Premier, Nairobi
Date: 31st October 2025
The National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K) participated in the second season of “Stars to Scars”, organized by the Kenya Network of Cancer Organizations (KENCO) under the theme “Bridging the Gap: Access to Breast Cancer Services and Support.”
The event brought together breast cancer survivors, advocates, clinicians, policymakers, and partners to discuss strategies for improving equitable access to screening, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship care across Kenya.
Dr. Melly represented the Cabinet Secretary for Health, Hon. Adan Duale, and delivered his remarks reaffirming the Ministry of Health’s commitment to the fight against cancer — from screening, early detection, and prevention to ensuring access to quality treatment and supportive care. He further assured survivors of the government’s ongoing dedication to strengthening cancer care services nationwide.
Dr. Michelle Nguu, representing the National Cancer Institute of Kenya, emphasized the Institute’s commitment to ensuring access to the right and affordable oncology medicines for all Kenyans. She highlighted strategic collaborations, including the Memorandum of Understanding with Roche to improve access to Herceptin (trastuzumab) for HER2-positive breast cancer patients, and the Pfizer Accord for a Healthier World initiative, which seeks to expand access to quality oncology therapies in the country.
The event was supported by La Roche-Posay, AFRON (African Organization for Research and Training in Cancer), Tax Justice Network Africa, Equity Bank, and The Max Foundation, whose collective efforts are helping bridge the gaps in access to cancer care and patient support.
The Max Foundation shared updates on its Global Access Program, currently operational in over 80 countries and supporting more than 230 Kenyan patients with advanced breast and rare cancers through treatment access, diagnostics support, and transport assistance for patients in need.
“Stars to Scars” continues to serve as an inspiring platform c