Meet the 2024 Kenya International Cancer Conference Planning Team

Dr. Njoki Njiraini

Position: Conference Chair - Consultant Clinical Oncologist
Categories: Committee Members

Dr. Njoki Njiraini is a Consultant Clinical Oncologist based at the Kenyatta National Hospital.

She has been key in instituting multidisciplinary meetings, problem oriented research in the department, and streamlining patient care within the oncology clinics in the public and private sector.

Dr. Njiraini holds a bachelors degree in Medicine and Surgery from the University of Nairobi, a Masters Degree in Radiation Oncology from the University of Cape Town, is a Fellow of the College of Radiation Oncology (FCRO) South Africa and a graduate of the Harvard POETIC Fellowship programme.

Dr. Njoki Njiraini

Conference Chair - Consultant Clinical Oncologist

Dr. Njoki Njiraini is a Consultant Clinical Oncologist based at...

Dr. Abeid M. Athman Omar

Position: Conference co-chair - Clinical Oncologist
Categories: Committee Members

Abeid Omar is a consultant Clinical (medical and radiation) Oncologist and Nuclear Medicine based in Kilifi, Kenya. Besides, he consults for International Cancer Institute – ICI Eldoret, Kenya. He has keen interest in breast cancer in young women, oncofertility, breast cancer research, radiotherapy, advocacy and Global Oncology particularly in LMIC.

Dr. Abeid completed his training in Clinical Oncology and Nuclear Medicine in Alexandria University, Egypt in 2021. He is a fellow of College of European School of Oncology (ESCO) and he has also successfully passed the ESMO exam to become a certified ESMO oncologist.

Dr. Abeid has conducted researches, presented abstracts in ESMO, ASCO, ESTRO, St. Gallen, KESHO conferences and Aga Khan Symposium, published in peer reviewed journals about breast cancer in young women, pregnancy associated breast cancer, pregnancy after breast cancer among others under the close guidance of Prof. Hatem Azim, who has been mentoring him since 2019.

Dr. Abeid is an active member of several societies including KESHO – where he also serves as a member of the education committee, ASCO, ESMO, ESCO, Society of Toxicology. In 2019 he was awarded the ASCO Virtual Mentorship Program and currently he is under the mentorship of College of European School of Oncology. Besides, Dr. Abeid serves as a reviewer for several journals.

Dr. Abeid M. Athman Omar

Conference co-chair - Clinical Oncologist

Abeid Omar is a consultant Clinical (medical and radiation) Oncologist...

Dr Naftali Busakhala

Position: Senior Lecturer and Specialist Physician
Categories: Committee Members

Naftali Busakhala is a Senior Lecturer and specialist Physician at Moi University and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital. He is the departmental postgraduate coordinator at the department of pharmacology and toxicology at Moi University. He is the co-chairman of the Ampath Oncology working group. Dr Busakhala is the principal investigator of the AIDS Malignancy Consortium, Moi University Site. He is also the principal investigator of the Lung and Breast Cancer Projects.

He is also a Senior Research Fellow at the Institute of Prevention and Research, Lyon France. He has published widely in peer reviewed journals.

Dr Busakhala is the Chairperson of the Kenya Society of Haematology and Oncology (KESHO).

He holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from Moi University and a Masters of Medicine in Internal Medicine from University of Nairobi. He also received post graduate training in Pharmacology from Tianjin University China and Makerere University Uganda. He was a Fogarty trainee in Haematology and Oncology at Brown University, USA.

Dr Naftali Busakhala

Senior Lecturer and Specialist Physician

Naftali Busakhala is a Senior Lecturer and specialist Physician at...

Dr. Helena Musau

Position: Adjunct Lecturer and Consultant Clinical Oncologist
Categories: Committee Members

Dr Helna is a Consultant Clinical/Radiation Oncologist and Head of the Oncology Department at Kenyatta University Teaching Research and Referral Hospital.

She is an Adjunct Lecturer at the University of Nairobi, Radiation Oncology program.

She is a member of various Ministry of Health technical working groups aimed at improving access to cancer care in Kenya.

Dr Helena is the first recipient of the Leadership Program of Women in Oncology by the City Cancer Challenge Foundation and ASCO. She serves in the International Education Steering Group at ASCO and is a member of the Public Policy Committee at ESMO.

She is the current KESHO secretary.

Dr. Helena Musau

Adjunct Lecturer and Consultant Clinical Oncologist

Dr Helna is a Consultant Clinical/Radiation Oncologist and Head of...

Dr. Irene Nzamu

Position: Pediatric Hematologist Oncologist
Categories: Committee Members

Dr. Irene Nzamu is a Pediatric Hematologist Oncologist. She is the Head of the Pediatric Hemato Oncology Unit at the Kenyatta National Hospital.

Dr. Nzamu attained her undergraduate training (MBChB) & postgraduate training (M.MED) at The University of Nairobi. She did her Fellowship in Pediatric Hematology & Oncology at Makerere University in collaboration with Baylor College of Medicine & Global HOPE Texas Children’s Hospital.

She is passionate about offering evidence based, affordable care for children with cancer & blood diseases in our resource limited settings

Dr. Irene Nzamu

Pediatric Hematologist Oncologist

Dr. Irene Nzamu is a Pediatric Hematologist Oncologist. She is...

Prof Nicholas Othieno-Abinya

Position: Professor of Medicine & Consultant Medical Oncologist
Categories: Committee Members

Prof Nicholas Anthony Othieno-Abinya is a Consultant Medical Oncologist at the Nairobi Hospital Cancer Centre. He was formerly Professor of Medicine at the University of Nairobi, Kenya, where he was the director of Medical Oncology Fellowship Program and also the head of Haematology/Oncology at the University of Nairobi and Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi. In 2009 and 2010 he was head of oncology at AgaKhan University Hospital, Nairobi.

He holds a Masters degree in Internal Medicine from the University of Nairobi. He completed fellowship in Medical Oncology at the Royal London Hospital (University of London) in 1992, and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh.

His research interests are in malignant haematology and breast cancer, in which he has published widely in peer-reviewed journals. He also has keen interest in molecular oncology. He has also authored a text book titled Drug Treatment of Haematologic Neoplasms. He has also co-authored cancer booklets, and has written chapters in several books. His latest book titled ‘Shadow in Perpetuity’ by Lambert Publishers was released in December 2019.

Prof Abinya is a member of American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), and served in its International Affairs Committee from 2010-2012; Africa Organization for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC), having been Vice Chair for Eastern Africa and was a long time member of Council; and European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO). He founded Kenya Society of Haematology and Oncology (KESHO), of which he was the first Chair, and is still its Patron. His outstanding academic achievements were profiled in the University of Nairobi magazine,’ Varsity Focus’ of September 2017.

He has received several awards and honours, including Kenya Breast Health Programme Award in appreciation of contribution to success of the Breast Cancer Survivors’ Conference on 11-14 July 2003; Kenya Breast Health Programme Award in recognition for outstanding contribution to the care of women with breast cancer in Kenya; Best Oral Presentation by Established Scientist Award, 2ND KASH Conference, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi; 2018 Harvard Global Health Catalyst: Distinguished African Ambassador Award.

He is married with four grown-up children, and grandchildren.

Prof Nicholas Othieno-Abinya

Professor of Medicine & Consultant Medical Oncologist

Prof Nicholas Anthony Othieno-Abinya is a Consultant Medical Oncologist at...

Dr Miriam Mutebi

Position: Assistant Professor and Breast Surgical Oncologist
Categories: Committee Members

Dr. Miriam Mutebi is a Breast Surgical Oncologist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Surgery at the Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. She is also the Vice-President of East Africa of the African Organization for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC), Chairperson for the Kenya Society of Hematology and Oncology (KESHO) and on the Board of Directors of the Union for International Cancer Control(UICC). She is the co-founder of the Pan African Women’s Association of Surgeons (PAWAS –www.africanwomensurgeons.org) and is part of the Kenya Association of Women Surgeons.

She did her general surgery residency at AKU. She subsequently did a two-year fellowship in Breast Surgical Oncology, which included a year in plastics and reconstruction at the University of Cape Town, Groote Schuur Hospital in South Africa followed by a Mammadi Soudavar International Surgical Oncology Fellowship at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York. She then worked for 2 years as a Graduate Surgical Oncology Fellow at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre, New York and also completed her Master’s degree in Clinical Epidemiology and Health Systems Research at the Weill Cornell University, New York, with a focus towards understanding the barriers to the diagnosis and treatment, for women with cancers in Africa, thus designing interventions to mitigate these barriers.

She is an avid supporter for the education and support for women, especially in surgery and she aims to provide mentorship for women in surgery and to improve women’s health and surgical care on the continent. She is currently pursuing a pilot’s licence in order to extend breast care services to marginalised areas.

Dr Miriam Mutebi

Assistant Professor and Breast Surgical Oncologist

Dr. Miriam Mutebi is a Breast Surgical Oncologist and Assistant...

Dr Angela McLigeyo

Position: Consultant Physician and Medical Oncologist
Categories: Committee Members

Dr. Angela McLigeyo is a licensed Physician and Medical Oncologist practicing in Kenya. She has a Master of Medicine in Internal Medicine from the University of Nairobi, a M.Sc. in Clinical Oncology from Ulm University (Germany), and a Fellowship in Medical Oncology from the University of Nairobi. In addition, she obtained a 5-year board certification in Medical Oncology from ESMO in 2019. She has over 17 years of experiences in hospital and clinical settings.

She is a member of the Kenya Society of Haematology and Oncology (KESHO), European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) and American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). She is also a fellow of the East, Central and Southern Africa College of Physicians.

Her core skills are in clinical decision making in internal medicine and oncology, conducting trainings, streamlining medical education and conducting research as well as participation in the development of treatment guidelines and protocols.

She currently provides comprehensive oncology healthcare at both public and private health facilities, conducts research in oncology and internal medicine when opportunities arise, and is engaged in teaching internal medicine and oncology at the Kenyatta University. She has authored several research articles in peer reviewed journals and presented abstracts at several conferences.

Dr Angela McLigeyo

Consultant Physician and Medical Oncologist

Dr. Angela McLigeyo is a licensed Physician and Medical Oncologist...

Dr Mohammed Ezzi

Position: Lecturer and Consultant Medical Oncologist
Categories: Committee Members

Dr. Mohammed Ezzi is a Lecturer and Consultant Medical Oncologist in the Department of Clinical Medicine and Therapeutics at the University of Nairobi in Nairobi, Kenya. He is also the Treasurer for the Kenya Society of Hematology and Oncology (KESHO) and also the Chair for the Educational subcommittee in the same Society.

He did his Internal Medicine residency at the University of Nairobi and subsequently did a two-year fellowship in Medical Oncology at the same university. He is currently a fellow at the College of the European School of Oncology and pursuing a Certificate in Competence in Breast Cancer by the European School of Oncology.

His academic focus is in medical education and is passionate about teaching across the spectrum of medical learners with an interest in enhancing oncologic knowledge amongst non-oncologist. He has presented at several symposia, workshops and conferences both locally and internationally. He has several publications in peer reviewed international journals. Dr. Mohammed Ezzi is a member of KESHO, ASCO, ESMO, AORTIC and KAP. His key areas of interest include breast cancer, malignant hematology and clinical pharmacology.

Dr Mohammed Ezzi

Lecturer and Consultant Medical Oncologist

Dr. Mohammed Ezzi is a Lecturer and Consultant Medical Oncologist...

Dr. Sitna Ali Mwanzi

Position: Consultant Medical Oncologist
Categories: Committee Members

Dr Sitna Ali Mwanzi is a consultant medical oncologist working at the Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi Kenya. She obtained her Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from the University of Nairobi and Master of Medicine in Internal Medicine from the Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi. She undertook a fellowship in Medical Oncology at Barts Health NHS Trust in the United Kingdom attaining a Specialist Certificate in Medical Oncology from the Royal College of Physicians and Association of Cancer Physicians in the United Kingdom. She also has a Master of Science in Advanced Oncology from Ulm University in Germany. Her research interests include breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, chronic myeloid leukemia and cervical cancer. She is passionate about increasing health care workers and general public awareness about cancer, role of screening, early diagnosis and treatment of cancer. She works closely with the National Cancer Control Program in implementation of the National Cancer Control Strategy and advising on cancer policy for improving access to cancer care.

Dr. Sitna Ali Mwanzi

Consultant Medical Oncologist

Dr Sitna Ali Mwanzi is a consultant medical oncologist working...

Dr. Andrew Odhiambo

Position: Consultant Physician & Medical Oncologist Program Director & Lecturer
Categories: Committee Members

Dr. Andrew is a Consultant Physician/Medical Oncologist & Program Director/Lecturer (Medical Oncology Fellowship Program) at the University of Nairobi. Dr. Andrew holds a Master’s degree in Internal Medicine from the University of Nairobi. He has attended a preceptorship training in Haematological Oncology & Infectious Diseases from the University of Maryland Marleen & Stewart Greenbaum Cancer Centre in the United States. He later did his Fellowship in Medical Oncology in the United Kingdom and was certified by the Federation of Royal College of Physicians of the United Kingdom as well as the Association of Cancer Physicians and the European Society for Medical Oncology. He is also a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh as well as the East, Central & Southern Africa College of Physicians.

He is the outgoing Secretary & former Treasurer of Kenya Society of Haematology & Oncology (KESHO). Dr. Andrew is a member of KAP, ASCO, ESMO, AORTIC & ECSACOP. Dr. Andrew serves as an expert advisor for local and international bodies i.e. MOH, Kenya Cancer Prevention TWG, ASCO & NCCN Cancer Treatment Guidelines Committees. He has published several articles on cancer in both international and local peer reviewed scientific journals.

Dr. Andrew was awarded the prestigious Business Daily Africa Top 40 under 40 men in the year 2017. He is passionate about cancer education and awareness especially through digital platforms. He has over 50 appearances in mainstream local and international TV and print media promoting cancer awareness.

His key areas of sub specialization and interest include Colon cancer, Stomach cancer, Breast Cancer, Pancreatic, Liver & Bile Duct cancer, Cancer or Unknown Primary, Lymphoma as well as newer treatments i.e. Immunotherapy & Targeted therapy for Colon, Skin, Lung, Kidney cancers etc. For his full profile, please visit www.drandrewodhiambo.com

Dr. Andrew Odhiambo

Consultant Physician & Medical Oncologist Program Director & Lecturer

Dr. Andrew is a Consultant Physician/Medical Oncologist & Program Director/Lecturer...

Dr. Catherine Nyongesa

Position: Clinical/Radiation Oncologist
Categories: Committee Members

Dr. Catherine Nyongesa Watta is a Clinical/Radiation Oncologist at Texas Cancer Centre Nairobi and Kenyatta National Hospital, with over 10 years of experience in Oncology conducting inpatient and outpatient management of cancer patients. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Medicine and Surgery (University of Nairobi), Master of Medicine in Radiation Oncology (University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa), and a Fellowship (FC Rad Onc) in Radiation Oncology from the College of Radiation Oncologists of South Africa. Among the key organizations, she has been a member of, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), Health Professions Council of South Africa, and International Gynecologic Cancer Society.

She has received a number of awards in recognition of her work nationally and globally. These include:

  1. Conquer Cancer Foundation (2011, ASCO Annual Meeting),
  2. IDEA (International Development Education Award- ASCO, 2009)
  3. IGCS (International Gynecologic Cancer Society) Travelling Scholarship Award 2008
  4. Employee excellence award KNH 2007,
  5. MMED dissertation paper passed with distinction 2005 at University of the Witwatersrand, SA.
  6. Best O level and A level student Misikhu Girls High school (St Cecilia)

She is one of the founders of the Texas Cancer Center Nairobi.

She is also the first female radiation oncologist in Kenya.

Dr. Catherine Nyongesa is the acting head of Department at the Cancer Treatment Centre Kenyatta National Hospital.

Honorary lecturer university of Nairobi.

Dr. Catherine Nyongesa

Clinical/Radiation Oncologist

Dr. Catherine Nyongesa Watta is a Clinical/Radiation Oncologist at Texas...

Dr. Zipporah Ali

Position: Palliative Care Specialist, Technical Advisor, Consultant and Researcher
Categories: Committee Members

Dr. Zipporah Ali has recently retired from the position of Executive Director of Kenya Hospices and Palliative Care Association (KEHPCA), a position she held for 15 years. She serves on the board of several organizations including; Kenya Hospices and Palliative Care Association, International Children’s Palliative Care Network (ICPCN), City Cancer Challenge, Alzheimer/Dementia Kenya, Public Health and Palliative Care International, and Kenya Network of Cancer Organizations (KENCO). She has previously served on several other global, regional, and national boards.

Dr. Ali has been and continues to be involved in advocacy and creating awareness on pain relief and palliative care in Kenya for children and adults as well as Universal Health Coverage. In her leadership role as the Executive Director for KEHPCA, she was very instrumental in fostering strong relationships with the Ministry of Health to integrate palliative care into government hospitals. She was also instrumental in advocating for palliative care to be included in the undergraduate medical and nursing schools in Kenya. She is a strong advocate for cancer prevention, control, and treatment and was instrumental in developing the first National Cancer Control Strategy and the National Guidelines for Cancer Management-Kenya. She has also advocated for palliative care to be integrated into other non-communicable diseases as well as infectious diseases.

Dr. Ali has been involved in a number of activities at the World Health Assembly (Geneva) and the UN High-Level Meetings on Non-communicable diseases. She is a strong advocate for the right to health for all and a supporter of the movement on meaningful involvement of persons living with serious health conditions and leaving no one behind.

Dr. Ali holds an MD from Ege University, Izmir, Turkey, a Master’s Degree in Public Health from the University of Nairobi, a Higher Diploma in Palliative Care from Oxford Brookes University, and a Masters in Palliative Care from the University of Dundee. She has completed the International Pain Policy Fellow program with the International Pain Policy Studies Group (WHO Collaborating Centre for Policy and Communication in Cancer Care, University of Wisconsin) as well as a Higher Diploma in the International Palliative Care Leadership Development Initiative at The Institute of Palliative Medicine at the San Diego Hospice.

She has received a number of awards in recognition of her work nationally and globally. These include:

  • Doctor of Law Honoris Causa-University of Dundee (2018)
  • International Humanitarian Award-Women4Africa (2018)
  • Social Impact Award for the Sub-Saharan Africa region-British Council (2018)
  • Honorary Doctor of the University by Oxford Brookes University (2012)
  • Individual Advocacy Award by the African Palliative Care Association and Open Society Foundations (2013
  • African Palliative Care Award –(In recognition for being on the interim board and later serving on the board for 2 teams) -2007

Dr. Zipporah Ali

Palliative Care Specialist, Technical Advisor, Consultant and Researcher

Dr. Zipporah Ali has recently retired from the position of...

Dr Tracy Irura

Position: Registrar - Clinical Oncology
Categories: Committee Members

Dr Tracy Irura is a Senior Registrar in Clinical Oncology at Kenyatta University Teaching, Research and Referral Hospital.

She holds a Master’s in Clinical Oncology and Nuclear Medicine from Alexandria University, Egypt.

Dr Irura is the co-founder of the Integrated Cancer Research Foundation of Kenya an NGO that seeks to rid Africa of the cancer burden and be a leading cancer research organization in the world.

Dr Tracy Irura

Registrar - Clinical Oncology

Dr Tracy Irura is a Senior Registrar in Clinical Oncology...

Roselyne Anyango Okumu

Position: Oncology Nurse Specialist & Chair of the Oncology Nurses Chapter
Categories: Committee Members

Ms. Roselyne Okumu is the current Chair of the Oncology Nurses Chapter –Kenya, and a member of, NNAK , AORTIC and Africa Oncology Nurses Network.

Roselyne is an assistant chief nurse at KNH CTC, she has excelled in provision of nursing care to different categories of patients. As an Oncology Nurse Specialist she gives nursing care while managing cancer screening & awareness services, advocacy and research.

Roselyne is involved in training, education and mentorship of students at the local university. She is a trainer of trainers of Chemosafe, a program that is geared towards provision of chemotherapy in a safe manner for the healthcare provider, the patient and the environment.

Roselyne works closely with National Cancer Control program(NCCP) and National Cancer institute (NCI) as an expert and has participated in the formulation of several Cancer strategic documents in partnership with NCI and NCCP (National Cancer Control Strategy 2017-2022, National Cancer Screening guidelines and Cancer treatment protocols. She is also involved in mapping oncology nursing training and education in Africa.

She values integrity, honesty and is passionate about cancer research, education and advocacy

Roselyne Anyango Okumu

Oncology Nurse Specialist & Chair of the Oncology Nurses Chapter

Ms. Roselyne Okumu is the current Chair of the Oncology...

Dr. Wambui Kung’u

Position: Clinical Oncologist
Categories: Committee Members

Dr. Wambui Kung’u is a Clinical Oncologist at Kenyatta University, Teaching, Referral, and Research Hospital. She holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Oncology and Nuclear Medicine from Alexandria University, Egypt.

She is a member of the Kenya Society of Hematology and Oncology (KESHO), African Organization for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC), European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO), and American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).

Her main areas of interest are Head and Neck cancers, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and gastrointestinal cancer.

Dr. Wambui Kung’u

Clinical Oncologist

Dr. Wambui Kung’u is a Clinical Oncologist at Kenyatta University,...

David Makumi

Position: Vice Chair of Non-communicable Diseases Alliance Kenya (NCDAK)
Categories: Committee Members

David Makumi is an award winning cancer control advocate and has worked in cancer control at clinical, advocacy and policy level for over 15 years. He was the first recipient of the International Award for Contribution to Cancer Care from the East African Region by Oncology Nursing Society (ONS-USA) in 2011.

David is the vice chair of Non-communicable Diseases Alliance Kenya (NCDAK) and the immediate former Chairman of the Kenyan Network of Cancer Organizations,(KENCO) the umbrella body of the cancer civil society groups with over 25 cancer patients associations, Community Based organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations and patient groups. He is also serves as the Vice Chairman of the Non Communicable Diseases Alliance of Kenya (NCD-AK) and sits on several cancer related boards and technical groups.

He has professional interests in low cost models of access to screening and care for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and clinical ethics.

David Makumi

Vice Chair of Non-communicable Diseases Alliance Kenya (NCDAK)

David Makumi is an award winning cancer control advocate and...

Dr Beverly Cheserem

Position: Consultant Neurosurgeon
Categories: Committee Members

Dr Cheserem is a Consultant Neurosurgeon at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi
Dr Cheserem has a sub-specialty interest in skull base surgery and pituitary, both microsurgical and endoscopic techniques. Her other interests include global health, teaching, and clinical research.

Prior to joining AKUHN, Dr Cheserem was a Weill Cornell Global Health Fellow based at Muhumbili Orthopaedic Institute, Tanzania. She has also been a Skull base Fellow, University Hospital of Wales, and Consultant Neurosurgeon, Brighton and Sussex University Hospital, UK.
In addition, Dr Cheserem has completed rotations in various University hospitals in the UK. She completed her residency in Neurosurgery in the South London Neurosurgery Rotation and obtained her Bachelors of Medicine degree with Honours from the University of Southampton, UK. Dr Cheserem has been a travelling fellow of Bellaria Hospital (Italy), Lariboisiere Hospital (France) and UPMC (USA).

She holds various international positions including:

  • Chair, Kenya Association of Women Surgeons (2021-23)
  • Vice-Chair, Scientific Committee, Surgical Society of Kenya (2021-23)
  • Vice-Chair, Global Surgery Committee, Surgical Society of Kenya (2021-23)

She is a member of the following organisations:

  • Fellow Royal College of Surgeons, England (FRCS, Eng)
  • Member, Association of Medical Educators (AOME) UK
  • Member, British Association of Surgical Oncology (BASO)
  • Full Member, Society of British Neurosurgeons (SBNS), UK,
  • Member, Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS)
  • Member, Kenya Medical Association (KMA).
  • Member, Kenya Society of Haematology and Oncology (KESHO)

Dr Beverly Cheserem

Consultant Neurosurgeon

Dr Cheserem is a Consultant Neurosurgeon at the Aga Khan...

Dr Elias Melly

Position: Medical Doctor and Cancer Expert
Categories: Committee Members

Dr Melly is a Medical Doctor and Cancer Expert. He is the current CEO of the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K).

Dr Melly is highly skilled and knowledgeable with experience at the local, regional, and global levels in clinical care, training, research, and program development and growth, He believes in value-based, transformative leadership and governance.

Dr Melly is gifted in building partnerships and collaborations. He is a true advocate of service to humanity without fear or favor.

Dr Elias Melly

Medical Doctor and Cancer Expert

Dr Melly is a Medical Doctor and Cancer Expert. He...

Dr Gloria Omondi

Position: Physician
Categories: Committee Members

Dr Gloria is a physician currently based at Kenyatta National Hospital, Cancer Treatment Center.
She has interests in management of solid cancers and cancer research.

She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Medicine and Surgery and a Master’s Degree in Internal medicine from the University of Nairobi and an MSC in Oncology from Queen Mary University of London.

Dr Gloria Omondi

Physician

Dr Gloria is a physician currently based at Kenyatta National...

Dr Joan-Paula Bor-Malenya

Position: Public health specialist
Categories: Committee Members

Dr Bor is a public health specialist with a special interest in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and 15 years professional experience in the Kenyan public health sector, including over 10 years in clinical care and hospital management. She is currently the Lead for the Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Pillar in the National Cancer Control Program (NCCP), Ministry of Health. Her role involves developing and implementing policies and programs towards the achievement of the National Cancer Control Strategy. She coordinated the development of the National Cancer Screening Guidelines in 2018 and is keen to see through the advancement of a harmonized cancer screening program nationwide. She also coordinates the National Technical Working Group on Cancer Prevention, Early Detection & Screening. Dr Bor holds a Master of Science in Global Health & Non-Communicable Diseases from University of Edinburgh.

Dr Joan-Paula Bor-Malenya

Public health specialist

Dr Bor is a public health specialist with a special...

Dr Priscilla Waithira Njenga

Position: MBChB, M.Med (Anatomic Pathology)
Categories: Committee Members

Dr. Njenga is a dedicated scholar and educator with a profound commitment to advancing the field of Oncopathology and promoting best practice in Anatomic Pathology. With a primary focus on breast cancer, she has recently been awarded an NIH grant to pursue a fellowship in translational research in informatics and digital pathology, at Columbia University, New York; ultimately with the aim of building capacity at the Aga Khan University lab, and consequently optimizing diagnostic accuracy, streamlining laboratory workflows, and enhancing overall patient care.

She currently serves as Senior Instructor in Anatomic Pathology, at the Aga Khan University Hospital, where she has been pivotal in the education and mentorship of postgraduate students.

Beyond her teaching and research duties, Dr. Njenga is an active member of the Kenya Association of Clinical Pathologists where she serves in the Organizing Scientific Committee.

Her areas of interest include, Anatomic Pathology, Breast Pathology and Computational and Digital Pathology

Dr Priscilla Waithira Njenga

MBChB, M.Med (Anatomic Pathology)

Dr. Njenga is a dedicated scholar and educator with a...

Fredrick Asige

Position: Manager
Categories: Committee Members

Mr. Fredrick Asige is the Manager at the at The Nairobi Hospital, Oncology department since 2015 to date.

He attained his MPH from Suffolk University UK, BSc. in Health Systems Management at Kenya Methodist University and Diploma in Radiation Therapy at The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan. He also holds Diploma in Imaging sciences and Higher Diploma in Ultrasonography at the Kenya Medical Training college. He received his certificate training in Leadership and Management in Health, Project Management and Epidemiology at the University of Washington.

Before joining The Nairobi Hospital, he worked at The Aga Khan University Hospital Radiology department from as a radiographer from 2005-2008 then moved to pioneer its Radiotherapy department in 2011 after completing his training in Karachi. He thereafter moved to The Nairobi Hospital and was instrumental in establishing the state of the art Cancer Treatment Centre in 2012.

Mr. Fredrick Asige has been involved in various key policy issues pertinent to Cancer management both at private and public level through advisory, collaboration and partnerships between the private and public sectors in realizing Public Private Partnerships (PPP). He has been advocating through NHIF for access and coverage of patients seeking radiotherapy services to be cushioned from out-of-pocket payment.

Fredrick Asige

Manager

Mr. Fredrick Asige is the Manager at the at The...

Gladys Nduku Mukosi

Position: Pain & Palliative Care Unit
Categories: Committee Members

Gladys is Palliative care Nurse/Counselor, she holds a bachelor of science in palliative care from Makerere university- Uganda and a post graduate diploma in palliative care from Cardiff University- UK. She owns a higher diploma in counseling psychology in medical health from Kenya Institute of psychological Counseling and a certificate in trainer of trainers (TOT) in End-of-life Nursing Continuum, Trained by the ELNC- USA.

Gladys has a vast amount of experience in palliative care and counseling after working in different departments of KNH.

She currently coordinates Palliative Care Services in the busy Pain & Palliative Care Unit, KNH after previously being involved in establishing and coordinating the successful Patient Navigation Program at Cancer Treatment Center -KNH, a program initiated by the American Cancer Society in partnership with KNH and has greatly improved patients experience and quality of life as they undergo cancer treatment.

Gladys is a co-founder and a former National treasurer of The Oncology Nurses chapter-Kenya.

Gladys Nduku Mukosi

Pain & Palliative Care Unit

Gladys is Palliative care Nurse/Counselor, she holds a bachelor of...

Jesse Elungat Opakas

Position: Chief Medical Specialist MTRH 2 Clinical & Radiation Oncology
Categories: Committee Members

Chief Medical Specialist MTRH 2 Clinical & Radiation Oncology
Director: Hemato-Oncology Directorate, Moi Teaching & Referral Hospital, Eldoret Kenya

Positions and Honors

2006 – 2007 Medical officer intern at Kitale District Hospital

2008 – 2010 Medical Officer Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital

2010 – 2015 Residency training in Clinical and Radiation Oncology – University of Stellenbosch, and Fellowship of the College of Radiation Oncologists of South Africa.
2015 – Date Medical Specialist MTRH 4, Consultant in Clinical and Radiation Oncology at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH).

2017 November to Date: Director- Directorate of Hemato-Oncology MTRH 2019June: Senior Medical Specialist MTRH 3

2022 September: Chief Medical Specialist MTRH 2

Peer-reviewed Publication

Results of Radioactive Iodine (131I) Therapy in Well Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma: A Retrospective Study from the Tygerberg Hospital.
D. Acullu 1* A. E. Fourie 2, K. Baatjes 3 and E. J. Opakas 4 https://www.researchgate.net/publication/283708956_Results_of_Radioactive
_Iodine_131I_Therapy_in_Well_Differentiated_Thyroid_Carcinoma_A_Retrospe ctive_Study_from_the_Tygerberg_Hospital

Radiotherapy in the management of carcinoma of the vulva in HIV positive and negative patients : an institutional experience; Jesse Elungat Opakas https://www.academia.edu/66075078/Radiotherapy_in_the_management_of_ carcinoma_ of_the_vulva_in_HIV_positive_and_negative_patients_an_institutional_experie nce 2015

Jesse Elungat Opakas

Chief Medical Specialist MTRH 2 Clinical & Radiation Oncology

Chief Medical Specialist MTRH 2 Clinical & Radiation Oncology Director:...

Dr. Nafula W. Esther

Position: Palliative Care & Pain Management Specialist
Categories: Committee Members

Dr Nafula is a Palliative Care & Pain Management Specialist based at the Kenyatta National Hospital where I head the Pain & Palliative Care Unit. She is very passionate about palliative care and is actively involved in making services and education available in Kenya. She has volunteered for Coast, Kakamega and Nairobi Hospices in the past. Dr Nafula holds a Master of Science and Diploma for Higher Education in Palliative Care from Oxford Brookes University. She also holds a Certificate in Teaching and Learning for Higher Education from the same University and a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degree from the University of Nairobi. She is a member of the Kenya Society for Pain and part of our agenda is training health care providers on proper pain assessment and management. She is a tutor at Oxford Brookes University and a member of the International Cancer Institute (ICI) faculty. Her roles involve teaching in various palliative care programs for health care providers across the country, taking care of patients and families needing palliative care and advocating for availability of opioid analgesics.

Dr. Nafula W. Esther

Palliative Care & Pain Management Specialist

Dr Nafula is a Palliative Care & Pain Management Specialist...

Dr. Mary Nyangasi

Position: Medical doctor and global health physician
Categories: Committee Members

A medical doctor and global health physician with a 17-year career experience in medical
practice, clinical and preventive oncology, cancer policy formulation and programming at the
Ministry of Health in Kenya. Currently serves as the Head of the National Cancer Control
Program and Co-Chair of the National Cancer Taskforce.

She is passionate about improving access to care across the cancer care continuum and health
system strengthening to ensure delivery of services in a timely, safe and effective manner.
She has led the formulation and implementation of various cancer policy documents and
guidelines including the Breast Cancer Screening and Early Diagnosis Action Plan 2021-2025.
Globally, she has also contributed to the drafting of the Global Strategy for Elimination of
Cervical Cancer abd the Global Breast Health Initiative. She has interest in cancer research
especially in the area of preventive oncology and behavioural studies and have published a
number of papers in various peer-reviewed journals. She is a member of the Kenya Medical
Association, the Africa Cancer Coalition, the Kenya Red Cross and the Kenya Society of
Haematology and Oncology.

Dr. Mary Nyangasi

Medical doctor and global health physician

A medical doctor and global health physician with a 17-year...