Garissa County Referral Hospital has reaffirmed its commitment to equitable and accessible cancer care.
Mr. Hussein Bashey, the Acting Chief Executive Officer, called for urgent action to “unite by unique” during World Cancer Day commemorations held at the facility on Wednesday.
Speaking on behalf of the hospital’s CEO, Mr. Mahat Sheikh Salah, Mr. Bashey said cancer is not only a medical condition but also a deeply human issue that exposes persistent inequalities in access to healthcare services.
“Cancer does not discriminate, but access to care often does,” the CEO said, noting that factors such “as geography, financial status, awareness levels, and the strength of health systems continue to influence patient outcomes.”
The CEO commended healthcare workers at the referral hospital, including doctors, nurses, clinical officers, laboratory staff, pharmacists, support teams, and administrators, for their dedication in preventing, diagnosing, treating, and supporting cancer patients.
“Your commitment goes beyond duty. You restore dignity, comfort, and hope at the most vulnerable moments of life,” the Chief said.
He acknowledged progress made in cancer care, “the hospital leadership emphasized the need for continued improvement, particularly in early detection and prevention.”
Mr. Bashey highlighted the importance of strengthening screening services, expanding community outreach, and increasing public awareness to ensure cancers are detected early when treatment is most effective.
He also underscored the need for affordable and equitable cancer care, especially for underserved and marginalized communities in arid and semi-arid regions such as northern Kenya.
Addressing patients and cancer survivors, Mr. Bashey described them as the heart of World Cancer Day, praising their resilience and courage.
“You inspire us to do better and to never accept limitations as final. You are not alone—this hospital stands with you,” the acting CEO said.
The hospital boss further called on policymakers, partners, and stakeholders to strengthen collaboration.
He highlighted that effective cancer care requires shared responsibility, sustained investment, and collective action.
World Cancer Day is marked annually on February 4 and is led globally by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC). This year’s theme, United by Unique, focuses on reducing inequalities in cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and support.
“As we mark this day, let us renew our commitment not just in words, but in action,” the CEO said.
He urged compassion, innovation, and unity in the fight against cancer.
Garissa County Referral Hospital continues to play a critical role in providing cancer-related services in the region, serving patients from across Garissa County and neighboring areas.
The meeting was attended by the Garissa Sub-County Administrator, Madam Shaciya; Waberi Ward MCA, Mr. Abubakar Sugow; the Chairperson of the County Assembly Health Committee, Mr. Aden Hassan Odowa; SUPKEM officials; and members of the civil service, among other stakeholders.
