On October 31, 2026, the Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene in Guinea organized a large-scale awareness march called "United Against Cancer" to mark the end of October Rose. The march started at the Esplanade of the People's Palace and ended at the November 8th Bridge in Conakry's city park. The event drew members of the government, presidency, defense and security forces, development partners, healthcare professionals, and citizens.
Health Minister Khaité Sall announced during the event that the HPV vaccine will be introduced in 2027 and that the construction of a cancer center in Conakry will continue. The minister emphasized that the civil-military march aims to give a special dimension to the end of October Rose, highlighting the importance of unity in the fight against cancer.
According to Minister Khaité Sall, the march conveys a strong message of national solidarity in the pursuit of health and well-being for all Guineans. She stressed the importance of early screening and access to care, highlighting the government's commitment to improving cancer care in the country.
Dr. Jean Marie Kipela, the WHO representative in Guinea, recalled that the fight against breast and cervical cancer must continue throughout the year. He cited global statistics, noting that in 2024, 2.4 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer and 694,000 died from it, while 694,000 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer, with half of them succumbing to the disease.
Dr. Kipela also mentioned that in Guinea, approximately 10 women are diagnosed with breast cancer every day, often at a late stage, underscoring the need for enhanced early screening, diagnosis, and care. He recommended vaccinating young girls aged 9-14 against cervical cancer.
General Ibrahima Sory Bangoura, Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, praised the initiative, saying it symbolizes the close relationship between the army and the population. He congratulated the organizers of October Rose and highlighted the significance of the civil-military march in promoting national cohesion.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to fighting cancer in Guinea, with the government and its partners pledging to intensify efforts to improve early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of the disease. The introduction of the HPV vaccine and the construction of a cancer center are seen as crucial steps in this endeavor.
Key points
- The Guinean government has announced plans to introduce the HPV vaccine in 2027 and build a cancer center in Conakry to improve cancer care.
- The civil-military march in Conakry aimed to raise awareness about breast and cervical cancer and promote national solidarity in the fight against the diseases.
- According to the WHO, approximately 10 women are diagnosed with breast cancer every day in Guinea, highlighting the need for enhanced early screening and care.
