Rwanda’s Minister of Health Highlights Urgent Need for Breast Cancer Care

Kigali, Rwanda – During the Africa Health Agenda International Conference held from March 2 to 5, 2025, Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Dr. Nsanzimana Sabin, delivered a compelling address on March 4 at the session dedicated to advancing breast cancer care for African women. The session, titled “Bridging Disparities: Advancing Breast Cancer Care for African Women,” focused on the pressing health issues affecting women across the continent.

Dr. Nsanzimana opened his speech by emphasizing the alarming statistics surrounding women’s health in Rwanda, revealing that breast cancer is the leading cancer among women, followed closely by cervical cancer. “Breast cancer is not just a health issue; it affects our families and communities deeply,” he stated, underscoring the societal implications of failing to address this critical health challenge.

The Minister called for unity among stakeholders, highlighting the necessity of forming strong partnerships to effectively tackle breast cancer and improve health outcomes. He remarked, “We must come together as partners to take clear, actionable steps. One life saved today can lead to future successes in eradicating this disease.”

Addressing the historical context, Dr. Nsanzimana noted that for far too long, healthcare efforts in Rwanda were primarily focused on infectious diseases, often neglecting the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like cancer. He recounted efforts made to create a structured non-communicable disease program within Rwanda’s healthcare system, advocating for a more comprehensive approach to health that includes mental and physical well-being.

The Minister pointed out that early detection of breast cancer is crucial and often affordable. He stated, “Breast cancer can be detected early through self-examination, making it one of the most manageable cancers when addressed promptly.” He encouraged women to take charge of their health, while also acknowledging the roles of families and partners in supporting this initiative.

Moreover, Dr. Nsanzimana announced a landmark policy that will ensure 100% coverage of cancer diagnosis, treatment, and management through Rwanda’s community health insurance system. “This decision is monumental for our communities, especially for those who are financially burdened,” he said, emphasizing the government’s commitment to making essential healthcare accessible to all Rwandans.

Throughout his address, the Minister urged participants to change the narrative around cancer, moving away from stigma and fear towards a focus on proactive health management and education. “We must teach our communities that cancer is a medical condition that requires awareness, not fear. It is our collective responsibility to change this legacy,” Dr. Nsanzimana concluded, calling on everyone—government leaders, NGOs, and community members—to take action and support initiatives aimed at combating breast cancer.

At the same session, Soraya Mellali, Chair at Africa Breast Cancer Council painted a stark picture of the reality faced by women diagnosed with breast cancer.

“Too many women are diagnosed too late. Five out of ten women diagnosed with breast cancer will not survive. This is not because the disease is unbeatable or because science has not progressed, but because they are diagnosed too late,” she stated emphatically, urging attendees to envision a scenario where 50 out of 100 women stand in fear and uncertainty, highlighting the tragic consequences of late diagnosis and lack of treatment.

Mellali continued with a powerful call for collaboration and knowledge sharing among nations. “This is why we are here, not just to recognize the problem, but to learn from those who have built solutions,” she proclaimed. She underscored the critical need for dialogue and cooperation, asserting that real change in breast cancer care can only come through collective effort.

She recognized key leaders in the field for their contributions, praising Rwandan Minister of Health Dr. Nsanzimana for his commitment to women’s health and cervical cancer care, as well as other distinguished health ministers making strides in their respective countries. Mellali set the stage for future discussions, stating, “We believe that collaboration, innovation, and knowledge sharing are keys to real change. Collaboration is no longer optional; it is the only way forward.”

During the Event, Key speakers shared their experiences and insights during the panel session, highlighting collaborative efforts in tackling breast and cervical cancer, which have affected countless women throughout the continent.

Throughout the discussion, the emphasis on partnerships was clear. A speaker pointed out that while collaborations are crucial, they can also be fraught with challenges. “Not all partnerships are equal; some can lead to frustration if there is a lack of clear communication and accountability,” they cautioned. The need for a unified approach was a recurring theme, as many participants acknowledged that cancer is a problem that affects everyone, either personally or through loved ones.

Specific examples of collaboration were shared, with Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire mentioned as countries successfully managing to establish memorandums of understanding (MOUs) to support cancer initiatives. However, panelists stressed that success requires consistent efforts and a commitment to work together. “No single party can do it alone,” stated one speaker. “It’s crucial that all stakeholders come together to make sustainable progress.”

The conversation also highlighted the importance of advocacy as a powerful yet often underutilized resource in the African health landscape. A cancer survivor shared their reflections on the frustrations they faced throughout their journey and how these experiences shaped their perspectives on access to care. “Empathy and understanding are vital. We must recognize the barriers that women face not just in southern Africa, but across the entire continent,” they emphasized.

The panel concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders—including policymakers, healthcare providers, and community advocates—to rise to the challenge of improving cancer care. Collaborative efforts that prioritize empathy, accountability, and sustainable practices were identified as key to moving the needle forward in the fight against cancer in Africa.