Cancer patients in Kenya’s Lake Region have received a major boost after Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale pledged Sh500 million toward the completion of a state-of-the-art cancer centre at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) in Kisumu.
The Kisumu Comprehensive Cancer and Hematology Centre is envisioned as a regional hub for advanced cancer and blood disorder treatment. The centre, whose total cost is projected at Sh1 billion, will serve patients not only from Kisumu but from 14 surrounding counties and potentially across East and Central Africa.
“This investment represents our deep commitment to saving lives,” said CS Duale during an official tour of the hospital. “We want to ensure cancer patients no longer travel long distances to access specialised care.”
The pledge marks a significant step toward decentralising cancer treatment in Kenya, where an estimated 42,000 new cases are reported annually, with over 27,000 deaths. Currently, most patients in the western region are forced to travel to Eldoret or Nairobi for radiotherapy and chemotherapy, often enduring long waiting periods and high costs.
The event was attended by Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, Medical Services Principal Secretary Dr Ouma Olunga, and JOOTRH CEO Dr Richard Lesiyampe, who all welcomed the funding as a game-changer.
Dr Olunga highlighted the government’s broader plan to elevate JOOTRH to the status of a Level 6 national referral facility, saying, “This centre will reduce travel, waiting times, and financial burdens, especially for low-income families.”
The CS also commissioned critical new equipment, including a 128-slice CT scan, mammogram unit, and a hospital lift under the National Equipment Support Programme.
Dr Lesiyampe underscored the emotional toll cancer takes on families, noting that many patients abandon treatment due to costs and fatigue. “This centre represents hope and a second chance,” he said.
Once complete, the facility will feature modern imaging units, radio-nuclear bunkers, and even a bone marrow transplant unit a major stride toward reducing the need for overseas referrals and enhancing survival rates through early detection and timely treatment.
