Hundreds of residents in Uasin Gishu joined staff from Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, AMPATH, Uasin Gishu County, and partner organisations for a colourful awareness walk to mark the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The procession began at the Chandaria Cancer and Chronic Disease Centre, snaked through Eldoret's CBD, and ended at Uasin Gishu County Hospital. The event was more than a show of solidarity, as it aimed to raise awareness about breast cancer and promote early detection.
Free breast cancer and non-communicable disease screenings, including blood pressure and blood sugar checks, were offered at both MTRH and the county hospital throughout the day. This underscored the partners' shared message that early detection saves lives. Members of the Breast Cancer Warriors Fellowship led the walk, wearing pink scarves and carrying placards that read "I Survived" and "No One Walks Alone". The event provided an opportunity for residents to access free screenings and interact with healthcare professionals.
A breast cancer survivor who participated in the walk shared her experience, saying that when she was diagnosed, she felt like the world had ended. However, with encouragement, she got checked early and is now alive. She emphasised that the message she wants every woman in Eldoret to hear is that they are not alone and that there is hope. Her story highlighted the importance of early detection and the need for women to support each other.
A senior official from MTRH addressed the gathering at the county hospital, emphasising the hospital's commitment to breast cancer awareness and treatment. The official stated that breast cancer is not a death sentence when detected early and that the hospital, through the Chandaria Centre and its partnership with AMPATH, ensures that screening, diagnosis, and treatment are accessible to every patient. The hospital's efforts aim to make breast cancer care comprehensive and inclusive.
A programme officer from AMPATH's IMARA BC initiative highlighted the programme's focus on providing continuous support and quality care to women with breast cancer. The officer emphasised that IMARA BC is about more than treatment; it is about ensuring that women have access to care from the moment they notice a change, through diagnosis, treatment, and beyond. The programme's approach underscores the importance of comprehensive care in improving outcomes.
Uasin Gishu County health officials noted that the joint walk and free screening camps demonstrate what can be achieved when national referral hospitals, county governments, and implementing partners work together. The officials echoed the call for awareness to translate into action, stigma to give way to openness, and every woman to access screening without delay. The collaboration aims to increase access to breast cancer care and promote a culture of awareness.
The event concluded with a message of hope and urgency, as the organisers insisted that Eldoret and the wider region can continue to raise awareness, break the silence, and save lives, one early detection at a time. The awareness walk and free screenings served as a reminder of the importance of breast cancer awareness and the need for collective action to promote early detection and treatment. The event was a significant step towards creating a supportive community for women with breast cancer.
Key points
- Early detection of breast cancer is crucial for saving lives.
- Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, AMPATH, and Uasin Gishu County are working together to promote breast cancer awareness and provide accessible care.
- The joint efforts aim to increase access to breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment, and promote a culture of awareness and openness.
