Launch of the first National Palliative Care Policy

The Ministry of Health is implementing the National Cancer Control Strategy 2017-2021 which highlighted the need for the development of a National Palliative Care Policy to guide the expansion of access to palliative care services in Kenya in line with the UHC agenda. It is estimated that globally, about 69% of adults in need of palliative care services have Non-Communicable Diseases, the majority being cancer patients.

This year’s World Hospices and Palliative Care Week 2021 whose theme was “equity in access to palliative care”, was commemorated by the launch of the first National Palliative Care Policy Document as well as the new Nairobi Hospice Building.  The event took place on Friday 8^th October 2021, and KESHO was represented by Dr Miriam Mutebi (KESHO Chair) and Ms. Benda Kithaka (Kilele Health) amongst others. The event was officiated by Her Excellency, 1^st Lady Mrs. Margaret Kenyatta. The First Lady called on decision makers in the health sector to ensure the services, including cancer management are available across the country. She also noted how crucial palliative care is in restoring dignity and, providing love and comfort in difficult times of ill-health.