Health ministry commits to fighting childhood canc...

Health ministry commits to fighting childhood cancers

Zim Now Writer

Zimbabwe’s Health and Child Care Ministry is committed to fighting childhood cancers through strategic partnerships, a senior official has said.

Health and Child Care Deputy Minister, Sleiman Kwidini disclosed this after meeting Childhood Cancer International president, Rodney Wong, who paid him a courtesy call.

Kwidini noted that cancer is one of the major killer diseases in Africa, adding that CCI’s partnership with KidzCan - a local childhood cancer relief organisation - will go a long way in fighting the scourge in Zimbabwe.

“Children deserve to live like any other person, free from cancer,” the Deputy Minister said.

“We want the children to reach their full potential but with diseases like cancer, they can be disturbed. With this partnership, you have come to our children’s rescue.”

The Health ministry, Deputy Minister Kwidini said, is prepared to work with anyone who wants to ensure the achievement of universal healthcare is realised.

Wong applauded the government for tackling childhood cancer issues in its National Health Strategy.

“I wish to applaud the Government of Zimbabwe and, in particular, the Ministry of Health and Child Care, for taking childhood cancers seriously in its National Health Strategy. I am informed that the development of a National Childhood Cancer Plan is now at an advanced stage.

“This will see increased support for the affected children. I am happy that KidzCan has been a good example of stewardship and support for childhood cancer in this country, and I did point this out in my solidarity message on February 15, 2024 on the International Childhood Cancer Day,” he said.