Ghanaian nurse and recipient of the 2025 Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award, Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, has officially launched the Cancer Care Africa Foundation (CanCAF), alongside a pioneering initiative dubbed the Cancer Genetic Counselling Certificate Programme for Oncology Nurses in Africa (CGCP-ON Africa), in a bold step aimed at transforming cancer care and improving outcomes across the continent.
The launch event, held at the West African Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC) at the University of Ghana, brought together a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, development partners, academic leaders, and religious figures. The gathering underscored a unified commitment to strengthening cancer care systems and advancing early detection and treatment across Africa.
Addressing the audience, Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti described the initiative as a “deliberate choice to go far, together,” emphasizing the urgent need to change the narrative around cancer diagnosis and treatment in Africa. She lamented the persistent challenges faced by many families, noting that late detection, limited awareness, and workforce gaps continue to hinder effective care and survival rates.
“For too many families across Africa, a cancer diagnosis comes too late, when options are limited, costs are overwhelming, and hope feels out of reach,” she stated. “This dual launch represents a deliberate and urgent effort to change that story, ensuring that where a person lives no longer determines whether they survive cancer.”
She further explained that the newly established foundation will focus on workforce development, leadership, and advocacy, with a strong emphasis on empowering oncology nurses across the continent. At the core of this mission is the CGCP-ON Africa programme, described as the first of its kind tailored specifically to equip oncology nurses with specialized training in genetic counselling.
Highlighting the importance of genetic counselling and precision oncology, the keynote speaker, Dr. Jemima Dennis Antwi, Chief Executive Officer of the Center for Health Development and Research (CEHDAR), stressed the human-centered nature of the initiative. She noted that effective cancer care goes beyond scientific advancements and must incorporate trust, culture, and patient-centered communication.
“Genetic counselling is not just science; it is about people, culture, and trust,” she said. “This programme is a strategic intervention that will bridge the gap between innovation and access while strengthening culturally responsive cancer care across Africa.”
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Health, Dr. Hafiz Adams praised the initiative, noting its alignment with Ghana’s National Cancer Control Plan. He highlighted the growing importance of genomics, innovation, and data in modern healthcare delivery, emphasizing that building the capacity of oncology nurses is critical to improving access to care and patient outcomes.
“When we empower nurses, we invest in lives saved and families strengthened,” he remarked.
Other distinguished speakers, including Prof. Alfred Edwin Yawson, Provost of the College of Health Sciences at the University of Ghana, and Dr. Amma Benneh, Director of WAGMC, drew attention to the rising burden of cancer across Africa. They stressed the need for coordinated, research-driven, and collaborative approaches to address gaps in cancer care and strengthen healthcare systems.
The Cancer Care Africa Foundation will operate under six key strategic priorities, including the establishment of an African Cancer Nursing Competency Framework, the promotion of cancer awareness and early detection, expanded training and mentorship opportunities, and the empowerment of nurses as leaders in policy and advocacy. The foundation also seeks to strengthen partnerships with governments, health institutions, civil society, and global stakeholders to drive coordinated action.
Auntie Georgina of MTN
These strategic pillars reflect the foundation’s commitment to building a resilient and skilled oncology workforce capable of improving early diagnosis, enhancing treatment outcomes, and promoting equitable access to quality cancer care across Africa.
The event concluded with the official unveiling of both the Cancer Care Africa Foundation and the CGCP-ON Africa programme, marking a significant milestone in the continent’s ongoing efforts to combat cancer.
For highlights of the launch, visit:
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