Dorothy Nyong'o

Dorothy Nyong’o is the Managing Trustee of Africa Cancer Foundation (ACF), a charitable Trust, headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya. ACF was founded on July 12, 2011, and works towards a Cancer-free Africa by creating awareness on cancer; partnering with corporates, like-minded non-profit organizations and medical institutions in providing cancer information and free screening services for breast, cervical, and prostate cancer, to the general public; spearheading cancer research and guidelines; as well as advocating for governments to pay due attention to cancer and to increase the preventive, diagnostic and treatment services for cancer on the Continent.

In Kenya, through Dorothy’s leadership, with the belief that early detection saves lives, ACF has conducted cancer screening in 23 of the 47 counties in the country – reaching over 27,000 people who would otherwise not afford the services. She is the 2019 winner of the Harvard Global Catalyst Cancer Advocacy Award for her relentless work in the war against cancer in Africa.

ACF has also developed a number of fact-sheets and books on cancer, adapted from the US National Cancer Institute booklets.  ACF carries out its mandate with the invaluable help of a pool of over 900 young, dedicated volunteers who give their time and skills for the accomplishment of its goals. Over the past five years, Dorothy has steered Africa Cancer Foundation from a pioneering institution to a maturing one that is recognized in Kenya, as a leading institution for cancer awareness, information and screening. ACF works closely with other cancer institutions and is a member of the Kenyan Network of Cancer Organizations (KENCO).

Dorothy holds an Executive Masters of Science degree in Organizational Development from the United States International University (USIU – 2009), a Postgraduate Diploma in Mass Communications from the University of Nairobi (1980), and a Bachelors of Arts (Honours) in French and Political Science from the University of Nairobi (1979). She has over 30 years of experience in Public Relations and worked at the International Planned Parenthood Federation as a program officer for 10 years, before becoming a consultant in the area of reproductive health and communications for the past 17 years.

Dorothy is Married to Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o, Governor of Kisumu County and former Kenyan Minister for Medical Services. He is the Founding Chairman of Africa Cancer Foundation, and together they have six children.