Kenya boosts childhood cancer care with new KNH unit

Kenya has taken a significant step forward in the fight against childhood cancer with the launch of a modern Paediatric Haemato-Oncology Outpatient Unit at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) and the opening of Phase I of the Lions Hope Hostel in Nairobi.

The dual milestone reinforces the country’s drive towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by expanding access to specialised care for children.

Speaking during the event, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said the Government is prioritising the transformation of paediatric cancer services through targeted investments to improve early diagnosis, treatment pathways, and long-term follow-up.

He noted that strengthening these services is key to improving survival outcomes and ensuring no child is left behind.

The Lions Hope Hostel adds a critical support component to care delivery.

As the first phase of a five-part development, it provides accommodation for patients and caregivers travelling long distances for treatment, easing the burden of travel and lodging while improving treatment adherence and patient experience.

The developments align with the National Cancer Control Strategy 2023–2027, which emphasises partnerships and patient-centred infrastructure.

Collaboration with partners, including the Lions Clubs International Foundation, continues to support delivery of these interventions.

The facility has also been strengthened with the installation of a state-of-the-art Elekta Versa HD Linear Accelerator (LINAC), funded by the government.

The technology enables highly precise cancer treatment, particularly for complex cases such as brain tumours, allowing clinicians to target affected areas while protecting healthy tissue.

Together, the new unit, patient hostel and advanced treatment technology signal a more coordinated and compassionate approach to cancer care in Kenya, integrating treatment, support, and innovation to deliver improved outcomes for children.

The Dean of the University of Nairobi Faculty of Health Sciences, Prof. Daniel Ojuka, said the Paediatric Haemato-Oncology Outpatient Chemotherapy Daycare Centre is a purpose-built, child-friendly facility that allows for the safe delivery of chemotherapy on an outpatient basis.

“It will operate throughout the week, significantly expanding access while improving patient flow, reducing unnecessary hospital admissions and enhancing the overall treatment experience, while the Paediatric Oncology Hope Hostel will provide safe and affordable accommodation for clinically stable patients and their caregivers.

It ensures that children remain close to the hospital between treatment cycles, making it easier to continue care without disruption,” he said.

“Individually, each of these interventions is impactful, but together, they are transformative. Since we understand that treatment does not happen in isolation, transportation and accommodation are major barriers to care. By addressing these, we are making outpatient chemotherapy not just possible but sustainable,” he added.

KNH Ag. CEO Dr. Richard Lesiyampe appreciated the partners for their kind gesture while reiterating KNH’s commitment to utilising the resources provided.

By Joseph Ng’ang’a