Kenya partners with Roche to lower breast cancer treatment costs

KENYA—Kenya’s Ministry of Health has entered into a significant partnership with Roche East Africa aimed at making breast cancer treatment more affordable and accessible for patients across the country.

This collaboration, officially launched by Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale, is set to bring substantial financial relief to thousands of Kenyans battling one of the country’s leading non-communicable diseases.

Previously, a single session of breast cancer treatment cost patients around KES 120,000 (US$900).

However, under the new agreement, the cost per session will be capped at KES 40,000, or US$300.

Importantly, patients will not be required to make any co-payments, removing a major barrier to accessing life-saving care.

The partnership is being implemented through the Social Health Authority (SHA) and will be available in all SHA-contracted facilities.

This includes public, faith-based, and private hospitals, ensuring that people from different backgrounds and regions have equitable access to high-quality cancer care.

By spreading the program across a wide range of hospitals, the Ministry and Roche East Africa are working to ensure that no patient is left behind due to financial constraints or location.

Beyond reducing treatment costs, the collaboration focuses on several other critical areas.

 It seeks to improve access to essential cancer medicines and diagnostics, which are often out of reach for many patients due to high costs or limited availability.

Additionally, the partnership will support capacity-building initiatives, including training healthcare workers in the management of breast and cervical cancers.

 This is expected to enhance the quality of care patients receive and ensure that healthcare providers are equipped with the latest skills and knowledge.

Another key component of the agreement is the expansion of screening and early detection programs.

Early diagnosis is crucial in improving cancer outcomes, and by investing in these efforts, the Ministry and Roche East Africa hope to facilitate timely intervention and better health results for patients.

During the launch event, Hon. Duale emphasized the government’s commitment to transforming Kenya’s health system.

He highlighted ongoing reforms such as the introduction of digital health tools, which are designed to combat issues like counterfeit medicines and unqualified practitioners.

 According to the Cabinet Secretary, “This partnership is not only about reducing treatment costs; it’s about saving lives, promoting equity, and reinforcing the integrity of our healthcare system.”

The event was attended by several high-level officials, including Roche East Africa General Manager Ms. Jacqueline Wambua, Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Ms. Mary Muthoni, SHA Chairperson Dr. Abdi Mohamed, Acting SHA CEO Mr. Robert Ingasira, Pharmacy and Poisons Board CEO Dr. Fred Siyoi, and KMPDC CEO Dr. David Kariuki.

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