The wait is finally over for many Malawians battling cancer following the official opening of the long-awaited Cancer Centre at Kamuzu Central Hospital in Lilongwe.
Speaking during the launch President Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera described the facility as a beacon of hope and a reflection of his government’s commitment to strengthening the country’s health system.
He said: “This centre is a beacon of hope to many Malawians who have long waited for a modern cancer treatment facility in our country,” said President Chakwera.
“It will save countless lives and ease the burden on families affected by cancer.”. He said.
President Chakwera also expressed gratitude to development partners, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the Government of India, local cancer specialists and the private sector for their crucial roles in establishing the center.
In her remarks, Minister of Health Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda said Malawi records around 19,000 new cancer cases every year, underscoring the importance of the new centre.
“This facility is not only a milestone in our healthcare system, but a lifeline to thousands of patients who will now have access to specialised cancer services right here at home,” Chiponda said.
She also commended the Government of India for donating essential medical equipment to support the facility’s operations and praised the decision to locate the centre in Lilongwe.
“It’s strategic location in the Central Region means that patients from all parts of the country can now access proper cancer care without having to travel abroad,” she added.
Constructed and equipped at a cost of nearly US$20 million (approximately K40 billion), the Cancer Centre is expected to serve about 2,100 patients annually, with a daily capacity of up to 80.
The facility will offer comprehensive cancer services free of charge, including radiotherapy, chemotherapy and cervical cancer treatment the most common cancer affecting Malawian women.
