On February 1, 2025, the Government of Rwanda will officially launch efforts to eradicate cervical cancer by 2027. This is part of the country’s preparations for celebrating International Cancer Day on February 4, which is observed every year.
The initiative aligns with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 90-70-90 targets, which aim to vaccinate 90% of girls aged 13-15 against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), screen 70% of women aged 29-49 for cervical cancer, and ensure 90% of women with early symptoms receive timely treatment.
To mark the occasion, Rwanda will also observe a week dedicated to cancer awareness, running from January 22 to 28, 2025. This week is meant to increase public knowledge about cancer, educate people on prevention, and strengthen efforts to fight the disease.
Dr. Maniragaba Théoneste, head of the National Cancer Program at the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC), emphasized Rwanda’s commitment to meeting the WHO’s goal of eliminating cancer. He explained that this will be achieved through programs such as HPV vaccination, cancer screening, and timely treatment for those diagnosed with the disease.
He said, “Our focus is on cervical cancer, as it is a global initiative to eliminate it. The government has taken all necessary measures to meet these goals by 2027. This includes vaccinating girls against HPV, screening women for cervical cancer, and offering immediate treatment to those diagnosed.”
Rwanda has already made progress in implementing these measures. Key hospitals, such as the University Hospital of Kigali (CHUK), Huye University Hospital (CHUB), Kanombe Military Hospital, Butaro Hospital, and King Faisal Hospital, are now equipped with the tools needed for cancer screening, surgery, and treatment.
Dr. Maniragaba added, “We need trained professionals to diagnose, perform surgeries, and provide radiotherapy. Everything has been carefully planned to ensure the success of these efforts.”
Rwanda is also making strides in meeting the 90-70-90 targets, with Gicumbi and Karongi districts already achieving them. However, other districts are still working towards these goals.
During the week dedicated to cancer and International Cancer Day, activities will focus on educating the public about cervical cancer and its prevention. On February 3, a public sports event in Kigali will raise awareness about the disease, celebrate survivors, and honor those lost to cancer.
In Rubavu, Nyabihu, and Bugesera districts, there will be screenings for cervical cancer, and the public will be educated about its risks and prevention.
Dr. Maniragaba concluded, “During this week, we will provide in-depth information to the public, and activities have already begun. Our teams are screening people and raising awareness about the dangers of cervical cancer.”
Recently, the Rwandan government included cancer treatment under the health insurance scheme, which is expected to increase the number of people seeking screening and treatment. Previously, the high cost of treatment deterred some from seeking help.
Dr. Maniragaba said, “This change will encourage more people to seek treatment, as the burden of high medical costs has been lifted. This aligns with our goal to ensure 90% of women who know they have cervical cancer receive timely and reliable treatment.”
The WHO’s international targets aim to reduce cervical cancer rates to less than 4 per 100,000 women annually by 2030. Countries are expected to meet the 90-70-90 targets by that year, with the hope that cancer will eventually become a thing of the past.
