Kilifi Senator Stewart Madzayo. File photo 
By Ben Okweingoti.
Leaders in Kilifi County have intensified calls for parents to ensure their daughters and women receive the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, describing it as a crucial step in reducing the burden of cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases.
The appeal comes as the county strengthens its healthcare system following the launch of its first cancer treatment centre at the Kilifi County Teaching and Referral Hospital, a facility expected to improve access to cancer care for thousands of residents.
Speaking during the launch, Kilifi Senator Stewart Madzayo hailed the establishment of the cancer centre, saying it would transform cancer treatment in the region while urging women and girls to take advantage of HPV vaccination and early cancer screening services.
"The HPV vaccine will go a long way in improving the health of women in Kilifi. Instead of seeking treatment when the disease has advanced, we want women to get vaccinated and undergo regular screening so that cancer can be prevented or detected early," said Madzayo.
He noted that many women only discover they have cervical cancer after experiencing severe complications, emphasizing that early prevention through vaccination and screening could save lives.
The Senator also praised the county government's investment in the cancer centre, saying it reflected the intended use of resources allocated to counties through Parliament.
"When the Governor took the initiative to establish a cancer centre at the Kilifi County Teaching and Referral Hospital, it was a worthwhile investment. Facilities like this will significantly ease the suffering of cancer patients," he said.
Cancer advocate Charity Kirimi welcomed the opening of the chemotherapy facility, describing it as a major milestone for patients who previously had to travel long distances in search of treatment.
She said the new centre would reduce both the financial burden and logistical challenges faced by cancer patients, particularly those from low-income families.
"The establishment of a chemotherapy facility in Kilifi is a historic achievement. Many patients were previously unable to access treatment because of the high cost and the long distances they had to travel," she said.
Kirimi, who supports underprivileged breast cancer patients through her Night of Hope and Strength initiative, urged the county government to ensure the facility remains fully equipped with essential drugs, equipment and personnel.
Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung'aro announced that the county would soon roll out a door-to-door HPV vaccination and cancer screening campaign aimed at reaching women and girls in every village.
He revealed that the county's upcoming Afya Mashinani mobile health programme would provide cancer screening services alongside HPV vaccination in communities across the county.
"Very soon we will launch the Afya Mashinani truck, which will offer cancer screening and HPV vaccinations. I encourage all girls and women to take advantage of this exercise," the Governor said.
The HPV vaccine protects against infection by the human papillomavirus, the leading cause of cervical cancer, while also reducing the risk of genital warts. The World Health Organization recommends routine HPV vaccination for girls aged between 9 and 14 years before they become sexually active.
Health experts also advise that individuals aged 15 years and above receive two doses of the vaccine administered six months apart. Despite the availability of the vaccine, misinformation and low uptake continue to hamper prevention efforts, contributing to an estimated 3,600 cervical cancer deaths annually.
