NCI-Kenya Supports Historic Launch of Kilifi County's First Cancer Centre The National Cancer Institute of Kenya @NCIKenya, joined Kilifi County, @KilifiCountyGov, development partners, and stakeholders in celebrating a major milestone in Kenya's cancer control efforts with the official commissioning of the first-ever Cancer Centre at Kilifi County Referral Hospital. The landmark event, hosted by H.E. Governor Gideon Maitha Mung'aro, @GideonMungaroM, was attended by H.E. Arnaud Suquet, Ambassador of France to Kenya, Mr. Amin Mawji, OBE, Diplomatic Representative of the Aga Khan Development Network in Kenya, representatives from the Ministry of Health, @MOH_Kenya, county leadership, development partners, and other key stakeholders committed to strengthening cancer care services in Kenya. The establishment of the Cancer Centre marks a significant step towards improving access to quality cancer care for residents of Kilifi County and the wider Coastal region. For many years, patients seeking oncology services have been forced to travel long distances to access specialized treatment, often resulting in financial hardship, delayed care, and poor treatment outcomes. The introduction of chemotherapy services at the facility will bring life-saving treatment closer to patients and improve timely access to cancer care. NCI-Kenya played a critical role in supporting the realization of this milestone as part of its mandate to coordinate and promote cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, palliative care, research, and partnerships across the country. Through close collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Kilifi County Government, the National Cancer Control Programme, @CancerProgramKE, development partners, and healthcare institutions, NCI-K continues to support efforts aimed at decentralizing cancer services and strengthening cancer care infrastructure at the county level. The launch of the centre aligns with Kenya's broader objective of expanding access to comprehensive cancer care and reducing disparities in service delivery. It also reflects the growing impact of strategic partnerships in advancing the national cancer control agenda. Looking ahead, Kilifi County has outlined plans to further strengthen the facility by establishing comprehensive oncology services, including radiotherapy through the acquisition of a Linear Accelerator (LINAC) and enhanced breast cancer screening through investment in digital mammography technology. These developments will contribute significantly to improving cancer outcomes through timely diagnosis and treatment. Speaking during the event, leaders acknowledged the importance of collaboration in making the project a reality. NCI-Kenya was recognized as one of the key partners whose technical support, coordination, and commitment contributed to the successful establishment of the Cancer Centre. The commissioning of the Kilifi County Cancer Centre marks a significant milestone in Kenya's journey towards equitable cancer care. The facility brings hope to patients and families by expanding access to quality cancer services closer to home and reducing the burden of travelling long distances for treatment. NCI-Kenya remains committed to working with national and county governments, healthcare providers, and development partners to strengthen cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, and care services across the country. – at Nairobi, Kenya