Kenya commemorated National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month (NCCAM) 2025 on January 29th with a commemoration event in Nyandarua County, bringing together health officials, stakeholders, and community members to advance awareness, prevention, and treatment of cervical cancer.

Organized in collaboration between the Ministry of Health, National Cancer Control Program (NCCP), Nyandarua County Government, and the STOP Cervical Cancer Committee, the event featured a cervical cancer awareness walk, free HPV vaccination, and integrated screening services for breast and cervical cancer.

Themed “HPV Awareness: United for Healthy Futures,” the event underscored the importance of early detection and accessible healthcare services, especially for women in underserved communities. The initiative also highlighted the critical role of HPV vaccination in preventing cervical cancer and ensuring healthier futures for generations to come.

Raising Awareness and Encouraging Early Detection

The event provided a crucial platform to educate the public on cervical cancer prevention, debunk myths, and encourage women to undergo regular screenings.

Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, stressed the importance of community-based interventions in the fight against cervical cancer.

“As we mark the climax of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, our efforts must continue beyond today. Early screening, HPV vaccination, and timely treatment save lives. Let’s ensure every woman and girl has access to these essential services,” she said.

She further highlighted the role of Community Health Promoters in mobilizing local participation, enhancing cancer prevention services at the grassroots level.

Additionally, she reiterated Kenya’s participation in the WHO AFRO Women Integrated Cancer Services (WICS) project, a program aimed at strengthening early detection and management of breast and cervical cancers, along with other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health support.

Strengthening Partnerships for Cervical Cancer Elimination

The commemoration event also reinforced the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration in the fight against cervical cancer. Stakeholders from government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector pledged to mobilize resources and expand access to HPV vaccination and screening services across all counties.

This initiative aligns with Kenya’s broader goal of achieving the WHO 2030 targets for cervical cancer elimination, which advocate for:

• 90% HPV vaccination coverage for girls by age 15
• 70% screening for eligible women using high performance test
• 90% access to treatment for women diagnosed with cervical cancer

A Step Forward in the Fight Against Cancer

The success of NCCAM 2025 in Nyandarua County underscores Kenya’s commitment to eliminating cervical cancer. With enhanced screening, vaccination, and public awareness, the country is making significant strides toward a cervical cancer-free future.

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