Kenya: Victoria Bank pledges funds to combat cancer as 82,000 battle the disease

Victoria Commercial Bank has reaffirmed its strong commitment to combating cancer, amid government data revealing a significant funding deficit for cancer care in the country.

On Friday, the bank made its third consecutive donation of Sh1 million to the Faraja Cancer Support Trust, highlighting its ongoing support for cancer patients and efforts to raise awareness about cancer care in Kenya.

Ketaki Sheth, Chairman of Victoria Bank’s board, emphasized that this contribution reflects the bank’s dedication to improving cancer care and supporting those affected by the disease.

According to data from the World Health Organisation (WHO), Kenya reported 44,726 new cancer cases and 29,317 cancer-related deaths, with around 82,000 Kenyans currently living with cancer.

Challenges such as a lack of awareness, high treatment and research costs, a shortage of expertise and healthcare workers, including oncologists and specialized cancer nurses, significantly hinder effective cancer care in Africa.

These challenges contribute to a disproportionate cancer burden and high mortality rates across most African countries, especially in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).

For example, the WHO African region recorded an estimated 811,200 new cancer cases and 534,000 cancer deaths. Additionally, 70% of newly diagnosed cancer cases occur in Africa, where survival rates are 30 to 50 percent lower than in high-income countries.

To ensure equitable cancer care, it is essential to address issues of equity and prioritization, allowing everyone access to cancer prevention, early detection, and appropriate treatment and follow-up care.

“The bank is cognisant that the battle against cancer is not fought with medical procedures alone but also a compassionate community that stands together with those affected,” Sheth said.

“Cancer is a debilitating disease that affects countless lives, and it requires our collective action and support,” said Victoria Bank’s CB PLC’s chief business officer-deposits Azmina Pattni.