Maseme Machuka, MPRSK

Dr. Elias Melly Calls for Stronger Partnerships and Innovation to Tackle Kenya's Growing Cancer Burden at KUKHA 2026 Nairobi, Kenya – 17 June 2026 The Chief Executive Officer of the National Cancer Institute of Kenya @NCIKenya, Dr. Elias Melly, @DrEliasMelly, delivered a compelling address during the 4th Kenya–United Kingdom Health Alliance (KUKHA) One-Health Research and Innovation Conference 2026, highlighting the growing burden of cancer in Kenya and the urgent need for collaborative action to improve cancer outcomes across the country and the African continent. "Cancer is no longer a disease of the future; it is a reality affecting families, communities, and economies today. Our response must be driven by prevention, early detection, innovation, and strong partnerships if we are to improve outcomes for all Kenyans." Speaking during a plenary session that focused on cancer, kidney disease, and health security, Dr. Melly emphasized that cancer is no longer a future threat but a present reality affecting thousands of Kenyan families. He noted that the increasing incidence of cancer presents significant challenges to healthcare systems, economies, and communities, stressing the need for sustained investments in prevention, early detection, treatment, research, and innovation. Dr. Melly pointed out that one of the greatest challenges facing cancer care in Kenya is late diagnosis. Many patients continue to present at advanced stages of disease, making treatment more difficult, more costly, and less likely to achieve positive outcomes. He emphasized that improving awareness and expanding access to screening services are critical steps toward reducing cancer-related deaths and improving quality of life for patients. Despite these challenges, the CEO expressed optimism about the progress being made through coordinated national efforts. He highlighted the work being undertaken by the National Cancer Institute of Kenya to strengthen cancer prevention and control programs, improve access to quality and affordable treatment services, support healthcare workforce development, and promote research and innovation. He further noted that advancements in medical technology, diagnostics, genomics, and clinical research are creating new opportunities to improve cancer care and patient outcomes. These innovations, he said, must be supported through strategic investments and partnerships that ensure equitable access for all Kenyans. A key theme of Dr. Melly's address was the importance of collaboration. He acknowledged the role of KUKHA in bringing together stakeholders from government, academia, healthcare institutions, industry, and development partners to address shared health challenges. He emphasized that no single institution can tackle the cancer burden alone and that meaningful progress will depend on strong partnerships at local, regional, and international levels. He also highlighted the value of the long-standing collaboration between Kenya and the United Kingdom in advancing health research, innovation, training, and healthcare delivery. Such partnerships, he noted, provide important opportunities for knowledge exchange, capacity building, and the development of sustainable solutions that can strengthen health systems across Africa. Looking ahead, he called for greater investment in cancer prevention, early detection programs, healthcare infrastructure, specialist training, and research initiatives. He urged stakeholders to continue working together to ensure that every Kenyan has access to timely, quality, and affordable cancer care. In closing, Dr. Melly reaffirmed the commitment of the National Cancer Institute of Kenya to leading efforts aimed at reducing the cancer burden and improving outcomes for patients and families. He challenged delegates to translate conference discussions into concrete actions that will create lasting impact beyond the conference itself. "The challenge before us is significant, but it is not greater than our collective determination to overcome it. Together, we can save lives, strengthen health systems, and build a healthier future for Kenya and Africa." @fnoluga @DrAhmedKalebi @johnnjenga @MOH_Kenya @Eng_F_Ngeno @NHSEngland @SheilaChepngen9 @MoICTKenya @EduMinKenya @kenconetwork @pinkheartcancer @uicc @DonaldBKipkorir @scherargei @MasemeMachuka @l_lizah #KUKHA2026 #KUKHACONFERENCE2026 #CANCERAWARENESS – at Nairobi, Kenya

Kenya and the UK Unite to Shape the Future of Health Innovation The 4th Kenya–United Kingdom Health Alliance (KUKHA) One Health Research & Innovation Conference brings together government leaders, researchers, healthcare professionals, investors, and development partners to explore solutions to some of the most pressing health challenges facing Kenya and Africa. Under the theme "From Challenges to Global Solutions Together: Building Kenya & Africa's Health Innovation Future," the conference focuses on: ✅Cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment ✅Kidney disease management ✅Health security and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) ✅Universal Health Coverage (UHC) ✅One Health and climate change ✅Health technology, innovation, and local manufacturing ✅Research, genomics, and clinical trials ✅Trade, investment, and partnerships for sustainable healthcare solutions Through collaboration, innovation, and strategic partnerships, KUKHA 2026 aims to strengthen health systems, improve patient outcomes, and accelerate Africa's journey toward a healthier and more resilient future. @Cofpak_Official @MasemeMachuka @karani_muthoni @Tanuison @JackieDeAngelis @MmmGorgeous @DrMercyKorir @MercyNgetuny @afyanalytics #KUKHA2026 #HealthInnovation #CancerCare #UHC #ResearchAndInnovation #GlobalHealth – at Nairobi, Kenya