Rwanda to launch strategy to eliminate cervical cancer by 2027

RWANDA—The Rwandan government has announced its plans to officially launch a national strategy to eliminate cervical cancer by 2027.

The launch will take place on February 1, in the lead-up to World Cancer Day on February 4.

This initiative aligns with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) global targets, which aim to vaccinate 90% of girls aged 13 to 15 against human papillomavirus (HPV), screen 70% of women aged 29 to 49 for cervical cancer, and ensure 90% of women with pre-cancerous or cancerous conditions receive appropriate treatment.

The announcement comes during Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, observed from January 22 to 28, which focuses on raising awareness and encouraging preventive measures.

Dr. Théoneste Maniragaba, Director of the Cancer Programme at Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC), emphasized the country’s strong commitment to meeting these WHO targets by 2027.

“We have made cervical cancer elimination a national priority because it is a global health goal. Rwanda is taking every possible step to achieve these targets, including vaccinating young girls, screening women, and providing timely treatment,” Dr. Maniragaba stated.

To ensure success, Rwanda’s strategy includes strengthening its healthcare infrastructure, providing advanced equipment, and training healthcare professionals.

Major hospitals such as the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK), the University Teaching Hospital of Butare (CHUB), the Rwanda Military Referral and Teaching Hospital, Butaro Hospital, and King Faisal Hospital are now equipped with the necessary tools and skilled personnel for cervical cancer screening, surgery, and radiotherapy.

Dr. Maniragaba noted the progress in some districts, such as Gicumbi and Karongi, which have already achieved the WHO’s 90-70-90 targets. However, he acknowledged that many other districts still need to catch up.

To mark Cervical Cancer Prevention Week and World Cancer Day, several activities have been planned.

On February 3, a Car-Free Day walk will be held in Kigali to promote cancer awareness and honor both survivors and those who have lost their lives to the disease.

 In addition, cervical cancer screening campaigns will begin in districts like Rubavu, Nyabihu, and Bugesera, where local health centers will offer free screenings and educate communities about prevention and treatment.

One of the most significant steps in Rwanda’s strategy is the inclusion of cancer treatment under the country’s community-based health insurance scheme.

This coverage will make treatments like surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy more affordable, removing financial barriers that have previously deterred patients from seeking care.

“This initiative will encourage more people to seek medical care without fear of high costs,” Dr. Maniragaba explained.

 “It aligns with our goal of ensuring that 90% of women diagnosed with cervical cancer receive timely and effective treatment.”

Globally, the WHO aims to reduce cervical cancer cases to fewer than four per 100,000 women annually by 2030.

 Countries meeting the 90-70-90 targets are expected to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health issue within the next century.

Dr. Maniragaba expressed optimism about Rwanda’s progress, saying, “Achieving these goals gives us hope for a future where cervical cancer is no longer a threat.”

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.