4 February, 2018– Today, we join the world in marking the World Cancer Day, a day set aside to acknowledge the rising burden of this Non-Communicable Disease.
Cancer is the third leading cause of death in Kenya, a status that continues to significantly challenge achievement of the country’s development goals – it affects men and women, babies, children and the elderly alike.
Now, more than ever, we must work towards reducing incidents of cancer and reducing cancer deaths; we need to do this as individuals, as a community, and as a nation.
As individuals, we must take the first step of adopting healthy lifestyles; it is also imperative for us to undergo cancer screening since early detection and diagnosis saves lives.
I believe that if we all join hands together, we can create a narrative of survival, victory, triumph and hope for all cancer patients in our country. To cancer survivors, I encourage you to share your stories and be champions for cancer prevention, screening, treatment and care. I believe that your stories will give hope and inspire many others going through similar experiences.
Today, we acknowledge researchers and innovators who continue to work diligently to find solutions to this disease. We also recognize initiatives spearheaded by different partners and stakeholders aimed at ensuring that all Kenyans are able to access cost-effective cancer interventions.
Beyond Zero is committed to complementing Government efforts focused on Kenyans’ access to quality health services.
Today, I urge us to all take responsibility in our different capacities to address the cancer burden in our country.
I thank you.
First Lady of Kenya, Her Excellency Margaret Kenyatta.