The Ministry of Health has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Roche East Africa, set to reduce the cost of breast cancer treatment for patients in Kenya.
In a statement on May 29, 2025, the Ministry stated that cancer treatment sessions are expected to drop from Ksh 120,000 to Ksh 40,000.
“Breast cancer patients in Kenya are set to benefit from a major cost reduction in treatment, with sessions expected to drop from KES 120,000 to KES 40,000 following a landmark partnership between the Ministry of Health and Roche East Africa,” part of the statement read.
The partnership will be rolled out across all SHA-contracted facilities, including public, faith-based, and private hospitals, ensuring equitable access to care.
Key Elements of the Collaboration
The collaboration includes several key components aimed at improving cancer care in Kenya. It will enhance access to essential cancer medicines and diagnostics for patients.
Additionally, the partnership focuses on capacity-building by providing training for healthcare workers in breast and cervical cancer management.
Expanded screening and early detection efforts are also a priority to ensure timely intervention and better health outcomes.
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Breast Cancer Treatment Cost to Reduce
During the launch of the MoU, Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale officially inaugurated the partnership between the Ministry of Health through the Social Health Authority (SHA) and Roche East Africa.
“This partnership is not only about reducing treatment costs; it’s about saving lives, promoting equity, and reinforcing the integrity of our healthcare system,” said the Cabinet Secretary.
CS Duale reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to transforming Kenya’s health system, highlighting ongoing reforms such as the rollout of digital health tools to combat counterfeit medicines and unqualified practitioners.
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Benefits of MOU
“Under the agreement, the cost per treatment session is capped at KES 40,000, with no co-payment required from patients,” read the statement.
The collaboration aims to enhance financial protection for cancer patients, addressing one of Kenya’s leading non-communicable diseases, and aligns with the country’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.
“With Kenya losing an estimated KES 17 million daily to the socio-economic impact of breast and cervical cancer, this partnership represents a timely and strategic response to one of the country’s most pressing public health challenges,” read the statement.
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