DAR ES SALAAM: African countries must deepen cooperation in research, early screening and vaccination to confront the continent’s growing cancer burden, Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba said, warning that no single country can address the challenge alone.
Speaking at the 30th anniversary of the Ocean Road Cancer Institute (ORCI) in Dar es Salaam, Nchemba said coordinated continental action was critical to expanding prevention, treatment capacity and specialist expertise. He represented President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the event, which brought together health officials, policymakers and medical specialists from across the region.
“To succeed in the fight against cancer, we must strengthen regional and continental cooperation in research, training, exchange of experts, and the sharing of resources, technology and experience,” Nchemba said.
He said Tanzania was ready to work with other African countries and position ORCI as a regional hub for cancer treatment, specialist training and scientific collaboration.
Cancer cases in Africa are rising steadily, driven by population growth, ageing and limited access to early detection and treatment services. Health authorities warn that without stronger prevention and treatment systems, the disease will place increasing strain on already stretched healthcare infrastructure.
Nchemba called for expanded screening programmes and vaccination campaigns, saying early detection services for cervical, breast, prostate and colorectal cancers were being extended to primary healthcare facilities to improve access, particularly in underserved areas.
Health Minister Mohamed Mchengerwa said tackling cancer required a coordinated national and regional response, describing access to healthcare as essential to economic productivity and social stability.
“The fight against cancer is a national agenda, not a burden for one individual,” he said, adding that recent healthcare investments had expanded treatment access and strengthened service delivery.
Established in 1996, ORCI has grown into one of East Africa’s leading oncology centres. Executive Director Diwani Msemo said patient numbers had risen sharply over three decades, reflecting both increased awareness and expanded treatment capacity.
The institute now treats about 57,000 patients annually, up from around 10,000 in its early years, and employs approximately 500 staff. It operates advanced diagnostic and radiotherapy equipment, including CT and PET scanning systems, and has trained dozens of oncology specialists.
Msemo said ORCI had evolved into a regional referral centre and was contributing to international cancer research through scientific publications supporting policy and treatment development.
Chief Medical Officer Grace Magembe said the institute aimed to develop into a regional centre of excellence focused on oncology research, precision medicine and specialist training.
“Our future is not just about buildings and machines, but about knowledge, systems, people and partnerships,” she said.
Health officials say stronger regional cooperation, improved early detection and sustained investment in cancer care infrastructure will be critical to improving survival rates and strengthening Africa’s long-term health resilience.
