Every 2 years, at the Kenya International Cancer Conference (KICC), the Kenya Society of Haematology and Oncology (KESHO) brings together leading oncology experts, experienced patient advocates, key opinion leaders, policymakers and support staff to discuss key issues in reducing the burden of cancer, saving, and improving the lives of patients.

For the first time KESHO held a hybrid conference. The physical event was held at Sarova Whitesands Hotel, Mombasa. The presentations focused on Improving Cancer Outcomes: Innovations, Opportunities & Strategies in the Care Continuum. The conference saw the highest number of abstracts submitted, partnerships, media coverage and most delegates.

The conference also featured two pre-conference workshops Radiation Oncology Contouring and Planning Workshop and Colorectal Surgery Preceptorship workshop. The cancer burden can only be realised by strengthening health systems. The speakers highlighted work done on policy, implementation and strategies of multisector and multilevel measures aimed at ensuring efficient and effective delivery of preventative, diagnostic, treatment and palliative care services to our patients.

There was a collaborative session with King’s College London (KCL) where the speakers shared research findings of a comprehensive analysis of cancer research outputs in Africa -what does this means for Kenya?

The conference saw over 400 attendees from countries across the world including: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, Egypt, Somaliland, Zambia, Malawi, India, Lesotho, South Africa, USA, Canada, Botswana, Sudan and Ethiopia.