The Ministry of Health convened a two-day National Symposium on 15th–16th January 2026 to mark the launch of the National Cervical Cancer Elimination Action Plan (NCCEAP) 2026–2030, a critical national roadmap aimed at eliminating cervical cancer as a public health threat in Kenya. KILELE Health was represented at the symposium, reaffirming its commitment to survivor-centered advocacy, community action, and strengthened health systems.

Held under the theme “Accelerating Cervical Cancer Elimination: Strong Systems and Community Action for Every Girl and Every Woman,” the symposium brought together national and county government leaders, healthcare professionals, development partners, civil society organizations, private sector actors, researchers, and cancer survivors. The convening provided a platform to align stakeholders on national priorities, targets, accountability mechanisms, and practical approaches for county-level implementation.

A key highlight of the symposium was the official launch of the NCCEAP 2026–2030, officiated by the Cabinet Secretary for Health, Hon. Aden Duale. The Action Plan offers operational guidance through a costed, results-oriented framework aligned with the WHO 90–70–90 targets, outlining pathways to scale up HPV vaccination, cervical cancer screening, timely treatment of precancerous lesions, and access to quality care.

The Action Plan is aligned within Kenya’s existing policy strategic frameworks, including the Cancer Policy 2019–2030, the National Cancer Control Strategy 2023–2027, and the National Immunization Policy Guidelines 2023. Discussions during the symposium emphasized the importance of translating policy commitments into action at the county level, where implementation will determine progress toward cervical cancer elimination.

The sessions explored sustainable financing for Kenya’s cervical cancer elimination agenda, health systems strengthening in practice, and clinical and programmatic best practices, including challenges and innovations emerging from county-level experiences.

KILELE Health’s participation underscored the importance of community-driven approaches and meaningful survivor engagement in cervical cancer elimination efforts.

“Cervical cancer elimination will only be possible if strong health systems are matched with informed, empowered communities,” said Benda Kithaka, Executive Director KILELE Health. “The launch of the NCCEAP provides a clear pathway, but its success will depend on how effectively we reach girls, women, and survivors at the community level.”

Benda further emphasized the need for sustained collaboration, noting that:

“Civil society organizations play a critical role in bridging policy and people. By amplifying survivor voices and supporting county-level implementation, we can ensure that national commitments translate into real impact for women and girls on the ground.”

She concluded by reaffirming KILELE Health’s commitment to partnering with government, communities, and private stakeholders to strengthen accountability, amplify survivor voices, and support the sustainable implementation of the NCCEAP ensuring that no girl or woman is left behind.

As a civil society organization working closely with survivors and caregivers, KILELE Health continues to advocate for equitable access to prevention services, accurate information, and supportive care for women and girls across Kenya.