Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital Raises KSh 63.44 Million to Support Childhood Cancer Care
By Jacquelyne Arusei | NAIROBI,
The Kenya Childhood Cancer Programme run by Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital has raised KSh 63.44 million, enabling 277 children to access cancer diagnosis and treatment. Of these, 50 children were supported during the 2024/2025 financial year.
The milestone was celebrated during the 5th Edition of the Gertrude’s Hospital Cancer Walk held on Saturday, March 7 at Uhuru Gardens. The event attracted about 7,700 participants who registered to raise funds and create awareness about childhood cancer care.
Despite the progress made, the hospital has raised concerns over a growing funding gap that continues to threaten access to life-saving treatment for many children across the country.
Speaking during the walk, Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital Chief Executive Officer Dr Robert Nyarango said the resources currently available to address the rising burden of paediatric cancer in Kenya remain far below what is required.
“It is alarming that the survival gap for children diagnosed with cancer in Kenya is so wide compared to high-income countries. Only one in five children survives, compared to survival rates of up to 80 percent in higher-income nations,” said Dr Nyarango.
He noted that over the past six years, through the annual cancer walk and golf tournament, the hospital has raised funds to support 277 children. However, he emphasized that the need remains significantly higher.
“Limited diagnosis and treatment capacity means many children fall through the cracks and lose their lives,” he added.
The hospital continues to call for increased support from partners, donors and the public to help bridge the funding gap and improve survival outcomes for children diagnosed with cancer in Kenya.
