ZAMBIA MAKING STRIDES IN ADVANCING WOMEN’S HEALTH
The Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Dr. Kennedy Lishimpi, has revealed at the ongoing Roche Press Day in South Africa that Zambia has screened over 2.1 million women for cervical cancer since 2006.
Dr. Lishimpi emphasized that this initiative is a crucial step toward addressing the impact of cancer and related health issues.
He also highlighted efforts to ensure eligible girls are vaccinated against Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) to protect them from cervical cancer, although he acknowledged that these efforts face challenges due to misconceptions.
Steal Sisters founder and cancer survivor, Karen Nakawala, stressed the importance of valuing women, stating that this is key to overcoming barriers.
She has encouraged the media to play a role in changing the narrative by sharing health stories and actively engaging in the conversation.
Meanwhile, Roche Managing Director Marilyn Steenkamp emphasized that women’s access to healthcare should never be compromised, stating that Roche is committed to improving healthcare through innovative systems and diagnostics.
The Roche Press Day, which focuses on Women’s Health Equity, has brought together experts and journalists from across Africa to discuss these critical issues.
By Victoria Kayeye Yambani, Cape Town, South Africa
