Childhood cancer crisis in Kenya: Only 1 in 5 children survive, hospital calls for urgent support
Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital is sounding the alarm over childhood cancer in Kenya, as funding gaps continue to put thousands of young lives at risk.
The Kenya Childhood Cancer Programme, run by the hospital, has so far raised Sh63.44 million and helped 277 children access cancer diagnosis and treatment--including 50 children in the 2024/2025 financial year alone.
The milestone was celebrated during the 5th edition of the hospital’s annual Cancer Walk on Saturday at Uhuru Gardens, which drew 7,700 participants committed to raising funds and awareness for children battling cancer.
Despite the support, CEO of Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, Dr Robert Nyarango warned that the resources available are still far below what is needed.
"It is shocking that only 1 in 5 children diagnosed with cancer in Kenya survives, compared to up to 80% in high-income countries," Dr Nyarango said.
"Over the past six years, we have been able to help 277 children through our annual Cancer Walk and other fundraising initiatives, but the burden is much higher. Limited diagnosis and treatment capacity means many children fall through the cracks."
Kenya sees between 3,000 and 3,200 new cases of childhood cancer every year, but the true number may be higher due to misdiagnosis and the lack of a comprehensive national paediatric cancer registry.
General Manager at Zamara Group--the walk’s headline sponsor--Liza Nyaga committed to continue supporting the programme.
"Protecting futures is at the heart of what we do. Childhood cancer robs families of hope, and through this partnership we are putting our resources behind a programme that genuinely saves lives," said Ms Nyaga.
The annual Cancer Walk is the flagship fundraising event of the Kenya Childhood Cancer Programme. It is complemented by golf tournaments and corporate bowling events throughout the year.
Dr Nyarango urged more Kenyans to support the programme, calling for expanded access to early diagnosis and treatment for children across the country.
"Every child deserves a fighting chance. With your support, we can save more lives and give families hope," he added.
Founded in 1947, Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital is the most established paediatric hospital in Eastern and Central Africa.
It serves over 400,000 outpatients annually through 18 facilities in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Meru, and neighbouring countries.
The hospital provides specialist care across more than 20 areas of paediatrics, including a dedicated teens’ clinic.
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