The construction of a Comprehensive Cancer Centre at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) is in its final stages, with radiotherapy services set to be operational within the year.
Funded with around Ksh500 million from the national government, the facility will offer chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgical oncology under one roof.
The centre also seeks to reduce the long distances Lake Region patients currently travel for treatment.
On Wednesday, Medical Services PS Dr. Ouma Oluga accompanied by Broadcasting PS Stepehen Isaboke led Officials from the National Cancer Institute of Kenya in assessing progress of the centre.
According to the hospital’s cancer dashboard, 4,567 cases were managed at JOOTRH between 2014 and 2023.
Cervical cancer accounted for 64 per cent of cases, with more than 70 per cent of patients presenting at advanced stages.
The new centre is expected to improve continuity of care and ensure higher treatment completion rates.
Additionally, partnership with King’s College London will support specialist training, research, expanded diagnostics and the development of a regional clinical trials hub.
