- Ghanaian nurse and winner of the
2025 Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award, Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, has officially
launched the Cancer Care Africa Foundation (CanCAF), along with its flagship
initiative, the "Cancer Genetic Counselling Certificate Programme for
Oncology Nurses in Africa" (CGCP-ON Africa), marking a significant
milestone in Africa's progress towards stronger, more equitable cancer care.
The
event, held at the West African Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC) at the
University of Ghana, brought together policymakers, healthcare leaders,
development partners, oncology professionals, academic institutions, and
religious leaders who affirmed a shared commitment to reshaping cancer outcomes
across Ghana and the continent.
In her
address, the Founder and Executive Director of Cancer Care Foundation, Naomi
Oyoe Ohene Oti, described the moment as "a deliberate choice to go far,
together."
"For
too many families across Africa, a cancer diagnosis comes too late, when
options are limited, costs are overwhelming, and hope feels out of reach. This
dual launch represents a deliberate and urgent effort to change that story,
ensuring that where a person lives no longer determines whether they survive
cancer," she stated.
She
highlighted persistent challenges in the treatment of cancer, including late
detection, limited awareness about the disease, and critical workforce gaps,
while reminding stakeholders that behind every statistic are real people whose
lives depend on earlier diagnosis and better care.
Introducing
the Foundation's guiding vision, Naomi said that no African should be denied
quality cancer care due to their location. "The launch of CanCAF signals a long-term
commitment to strengthening Africa's cancer response through workforce
development, leadership, and advocacy. At the heart of this effort is the
CGCP-ON Africa programme, an innovative training initiative and the first of
its kind tailored specifically for oncology nurses across the continent,"
she added.
The keynote
speaker, Dr. Jemima Dennis Antwi, CEO of the Center for Health Development and
Research (CEHDAR), emphasized the human dimension of genetic counselling and
precision oncology. “Genetic counselling is
not just science; it is about people, culture, and trust. This programme is a
strategic intervention that will bridge the gap between innovation and access
while strengthening culturally responsive cancer care across Africa,”
she said.
Speaking
on behalf of the Minister of Health, Dr. Hafiz Adams commended the initiative
for aligning with national priorities under the Cancer Control Plan. He
emphasized the growing importance of genomics, innovation, and data in modern
healthcare, noting that strengthening the capacity of oncology nurses is
essential to improving access and outcomes. "When we empower nurses, we
invest in lives saved and families strengthened, “ he added.
Speakers,
including Prof. Alfred Edwin Yawson, Provost, College of Health Sciences,
University of Ghana, and Dr. Amma Benneh, Director, West African Genetic
Medicine Centre (WAGMC), underscored the rising cancer burden in Africa and the
urgent need for coordinated, research-driven solutions supported by sustained
collaboration across sectors.
The
Foundation's work will be guided by the six strategic priorities:
- Establishing an African Cancer
Nursing Competency Framework to standardize and elevate oncology nursing practice.
- Strengthen Cancer Awareness
and Early Detection through education, advocacy, and expanded screening to
reduce stigma and improve early diagnosis.
- Expanding access to training,
scholarships, and mentorship for oncology Professionals.
- Empowering nurses as leaders
in cancer control, policy, and advocacy.
- Strengthen partnerships with
governments, health institutions, civil society, and global partners to
enable coordinated cancer care.
- Strengthening National
Leadership and Unify Oncology Nursing across Africa
These
pillars reflect CanCAF's commitment to building a skilled and sustainable
cancer workforce, one capable of improving early detection, strengthening
treatment outcomes, and advancing equitable access to care.
Goodwill
messages from leading health institutions and global partners underscored the
importance of collective action to close persistent gaps in cancer care across
the continent.
The event
concluded with the official unveiling of both the Cancer Care Africa Foundation
and the CGCP-ON Africa programme.
Click on the link below to watch highlights of the launch.
https://youtu.be/BLnZojabMHw?si=fv0cPnDnjMd3vTbq
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