Ms. Benda Kithaka, the Founder and Executive Director of KILELE Health Association in Nairobi, Kenya, has been honored with the prestigious 2024 Rachel Pearline Award in unwavering commitment to cancer prevention and control. This recognition, bestowed by the U.S. National Cancer Institute Center for Global Health (CGH), celebrates Ms. Kithaka’s exceptional dedication to eliminating cancer in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) through her groundbreaking initiatives at KILELE Health Association.

The announcement, made by Dr. Satish Gopal, Director for the Center for Global Health, National Cancer Institute – US, commended Kithaka for her relentless efforts in cervical cancer elimination, acknowledging her as a beacon of hope in the global fight against cancer.

“As part of the Annual Symposium on Global Cancer Research (ASGCR), each year since 2012, we recognize individuals for exceptional contributions to science and humanitarianism through their work to address cancer in low-resource settings with the Rachel Pearline Award” “Dr. Pearline was deeply committed to global cancer control and viewed the practice of medicine as a privilege, and with sincere admiration, I am writing to inform you that following an open international call for nominations, the ASGCR 2024 Steering Committee has selected Ms. Benda Kithaka to receive the 2024 Rachel Pearline Award”.

The Rachel Pearline Award, named after the late Dr. Rachel Pearline, honors individuals who exemplify excellence in cancer research, practice, and training in LMIC settings.

Ms. Kithaka’s pioneering work extends beyond the confines of traditional healthcare advocacy. Through innovative approaches such as leveraging the stories of resilience and lived experiences of cancer patients and survivors, she has amplified awareness and empowerment in the fight against cancer. Initiatives like the KILELE Challenge, where cancer survivors conquer Mt. Kenya, serve as powerful symbols of life beyond cancer, shedding light on the challenges faced by survivors and caregivers.

Moreover, Ms. Kithaka’s influence transcends borders as a globally recognized advocacy expert, technical advisor, trainer, facilitator, and public speaker. With over 25 years of experience in communications, health policy advocacy, and community engagement, her contributions have been invaluable in shaping cancer control strategies at global, regional, and local levels. Previously, the award has been given to world renowned practitioners in oncology. This is the first time it is awarded to someone working at grassroots community

Expressing her gratitude for the honor, Ms. Kithaka emphasized the importance of collaboration in overcoming the challenges faced by LMICs in cancer prevention and control. She stressed the need for meaningful partnerships to address not only resource limitations but also socio-cultural beliefs, myths, stigma, and misinformation surrounding cancer.

“The life of Rachel resonated with me and so to have received the award in honor of her was a real privilege. While the challenges in low- and middle- income countries predominantly stem from a lack of resources, access to healthcare is often complicated by socio-cultural beliefs, myths, stigma and misinformation. I am confident that working together through meaningful partnerships, we shall make greater strides towards a future free of cervical cancer”

Ms. Kithaka will deliver a keynote address during the 12th Annual Symposium on Global Cancer Research (ASGCR) on May 9, 2024. This event, a celebration of her remarkable contributions, promises to inspire collaborative efforts towards a future free of cervical cancer.

Different organizations and partners join forces in congratulating Ms. Kithaka for winning the award in Social Media posts, including Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), in their LinkedIn:

“Huge congratulations to Benda N. Kithaka, UICC Technical Fellow Host from Kenya for winning the prestigious Rachel Pearline Global Award. Your remarkable achievements reflect your outstanding contributions to our global cancer community.”

Ms. Kithaka joins an esteemed cohort of previous winners who have made significant strides in advancing cancer care and research worldwide.

Her recognition underscores the critical role of grassroots advocacy in the global fight against cancer. Through her leadership, KILELE Health continues to pave the way for innovative solutions and meaningful impact in cancer prevention and control, bringing hope to communities worldwide.

For those interested in attending the virtual 2024 Rachel Pearline Award Ceremony and hearing Kithaka’s keynote address, registration details can be found at https://events.cancer.gov/cgh/asgcr