By David Mwanje
The Palliative Care Association of Uganda (PCAU), Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI), and the Ministry of Health (MOH) are set to host the 5th Uganda Conference on Cancer and Palliative Care from September 10-12, 2025, at Speke Resort Munyonyo. This event will unite experts and advocates to enhance cancer awareness, share research, and promote best practices.
Dr. Charles Olaro, MOH Director General, announced significant progress. “We’re advancing Uganda’s cancer care with a new linear accelerator and nuclear medicine facility for better radiology and radiotherapy,” he said. New regional cancer centers, including a functional one in Gulu and upcoming facilities in Arua, Mbale, and Mbarara, aim to make care accessible to all.
Uganda’s palliative care, globally recognized by the World Health Organization, offers free oral morphine in public facilities, benefiting nearly 500,000 people. “This is just the beginning,” Dr. Olaro said.
Dr. Orem Jackson, UCI Executive Director, praised the PCAU partnership. “This conference fosters innovation and coordination in cancer care,” he said, highlighting expanded regional services.
PCAU’s Executive Director, Mr. Mark Mwesiga, noted the conference’s focus on cancer, non-communicable diseases, and innovation. “As Africa’s only palliative care association hosting such events with the government, we’re leading the way,” he said. PCAU, founded in 1993, has 30 organizations and 1,800 members.
Breast cancer survivor Gertrude Nakigudde shared, “Thanks to UCI, I’ve thrived for 23 years. This conference will highlight survivorship stories.”
The MOH, UCI, and PCAU invite Ugandans to register and engage with innovations in cancer care. Uganda’s government is positioning the nation as a leader in cancer and palliative care across Africa.
