KIGALI, Rwanda (BG)— Rwanda is making significant strides in cancer control, focusing on prevention, treatment, and workforce development, according to a recent international assessment.

An imPACT review conducted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) in January evaluated Rwanda’s health system capacity for cancer control.

The findings from the review will help inform the country’s National Cancer Control Plan (NCCP) for 2025–2029 and the Accelerated Cervical Cancer Elimination Strategy, as stated by the IAEA on Monday.

“Rwanda is continuously making strides towards enhancing cancer prevention and treatment services for its population,” said Claude Mambo Muvunyi, director-general of the Rwanda Biomedical Centre.

According to 2022 IARC data, Rwanda records 7,000 new cancer cases and over 4,800 deaths annually.

Cervical cancer is the most common in women, followed by breast and stomach cancers. Among men, prostate cancer is the most prevalent.

The human papillomavirus (HPV), a key driver of cervical cancer, has been targeted through vaccination efforts.

Rwanda was the first African country to introduce the HPV vaccine, achieving 90% first-dose coverage among girls by age 15 in 2023.

During the in-country assessment from Jan. 20–24, experts visited health facilities, including the Rwanda Cancer Centre and district healthcare centers.

They commended Rwanda’s commitment to strengthening cancer care but noted challenges such as unequal access to specialized treatment and reliance on external funding.

“The WHO Country Office is committed to supporting Rwanda as it strengthens health systems for cancer control, in particular to ensure integration with existing programmes and structures,” WHO Representative Brian Chirombo said.

Rwanda provides radiotherapy services in Kigali but faces machine downtime due to a lack of servicing staff.

The imPACT team recommended expanding radiation medicine beyond the capital and increasing domestic investment in cancer care.

The IAEA has supported Rwanda’s efforts through technical cooperation, including expertise for launching the country’s first radiotherapy center in 2019.