Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Malawi Voice
Published on 2024-03-05 15:25:02
President Lazarus Chakwera recently commended Dr. Thomson Mpinganjira for his efforts in establishing the International Blantyre Cancer Centre (IBCC). The President expressed his gratitude during the official opening of the center, acknowledging Mpinganjira’s transformation of personal tragedy into a public success.
In his remarks, President Chakwera praised the initiative led by Dr. Mpinganjira and highlighted the significance of the IBCC in providing essential cancer treatment services to the people of Malawi. The center is equipped to offer both chemotherapy and radiotherapy, essential components in the treatment of cancer patients in the country.
Dr. Thomson Mpinganjira shared the inspiration behind the construction of the IBCC, which stemmed from his late wife’s battle with cancer in 2017. He emphasized the importance of having a dedicated facility for cancer treatment that can cater to the growing number of cancer patients in Malawi.
The total cost of the IBCC project is estimated to be around 7 million euros, with approximately 9.6 billion Malawian Kwacha already invested in the first phase of construction. Once completed, the center will boast state-of-the-art facilities to provide comprehensive care to cancer patients in the region.
According to Minister of Local Government, Unity, and Culture Richard Chimwendo Banda, cancer remains a significant public health challenge in Malawi, with an estimated 17,000 new cancer cases diagnosed annually and about 12,000 cancer-related deaths reported each year. He emphasized the need for increased awareness, screening, and treatment options to address the growing burden of cancer in the country.
During the official opening of the IBCC, Minister Chimwendo Banda highlighted the alarming statistics related to cancer in Malawi, noting that cancer accounts for nearly 50 percent of deaths attributed to non-communicable diseases. He emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive cancer care services to improve outcomes and reduce mortality rates associated with the disease.
The IBCC is poised to play a crucial role in addressing the gaps in cancer care in Malawi and providing accessible and quality treatment to those affected by the disease. The center’s modern facilities and specialized services will contribute to improving cancer outcomes and reducing the burden of the disease on individuals and families in the region.
Overall, the establishment of the International Blantyre Cancer Centre signifies a significant milestone in the fight against cancer in Malawi. Through collaborative efforts from government officials, healthcare professionals, and philanthropic individuals like Dr. Thomson Mpinganjira, the country is taking proactive steps to improve cancer care and support for those affected by the disease.
Read the original article on Malawi Voice
