The Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) and the Palliative Care Association of Uganda (PCAU), will host the 5th Uganda Conference on Cancer and Palliative Care from September 10–12, 2025 under the theme “Embracing Uniqueness and Empowering Communities.”
The high-profile event will bring together leading cancer and palliative care experts, researchers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and advocates from Uganda, across Africa, and beyond to share knowledge, exchange best practices, and explore innovative strategies for scaling up services.
Focus on Personalized and Community-Driven Care
Speaking at the official media launch, Dr. Olaro Charles, Director General of Health Services, explained that “Embracing uniqueness” means tailoring care to a patient’s culture, age, condition, and needs, while “Empowering communities” involves equipping people with the knowledge, resources, and voice to participate actively in their care. Strong community involvement, he added, improves early detection, treatment adherence, and holistic patient support.
Addressing Uganda’s Growing Cancer Burden
Uganda faces 34,000–36,000 new cancer cases annually and more than 24,000 deaths, with only about 20% of patients reaching UCI for treatment. Despite advancements in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, late presentation and limited access to essential services remain major challenges.
Dr. Jackson Orem, Executive Director of UCI, stressed the urgency of collaboration, noting that “This conference is a vital platform to share research and close gaps in care.”
Palliative Care as a Right
Mark-Donald Mwesiga, Executive Director of PCAU, emphasized that “Palliative care is not a luxury; it is a right.” Uganda leads the continent in integrating palliative care into its health system, including free oral morphine provision and a dedicated Division of Palliative Care within the Ministry of Health. Yet, current services reach only 10–11% of those in need.
Cancer Survivors’ Voices
On behalf of cancer survivors, Gertrude, a breast cancer survivor, welcomed the inclusion of a conference track dedicated to survivorship, stigma, and patient experiences. “So many people are surviving cancer and living a good life,” she said.
The conference invites health professionals, researchers, policymakers, advocates, and community leaders to participate in shaping the future of cancer and palliative care.
Register here: conference.pcauganda.org
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