Kenya wins bid to host 2027 World Cancer Leaders’ Summit
The summit, organised by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and hosted by NCI-K, will be only the second edition held in Africa, following the 2023 gathering in Cape Town, South Africa.
Kenya has won the bid to host the 2027 World Cancer Leaders’ Summit (WCLS), marking a milestone in Africa’s role in shaping global cancer policies.
The National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K) confirmed the event will take place at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi from November 24 to 28, 2027.
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The summit, organised by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and hosted by NCI-K, will be only the second edition held in Africa, following the 2023 gathering in Cape Town, South Africa.
It is expected to attract policymakers, health researchers, civil society representatives, and private sector partners to discuss strategies for fair access to cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
“The Summit’s return to Africa highlights the continent’s growing leadership role in global cancer control,” NCI-K said in a statement.
UICC President-elect Dr Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, who also leads the Medicaid Cancer Foundation, said Nairobi’s selection sends “a powerful statement” about Africa’s rising profile in international health forums.
“The World Cancer Leaders’ Summit brings together voices from every region to shape the future of cancer control. Holding the Summit in Nairobi ensures that Africa’s experiences and priorities are part of that global conversation,” she said.
“By convening in Africa, the Summit will ground its discussions in the lived realities of communities most affected by rising cancer burdens,” she added.
Dr Miriam Mutebi, UICC Board Member and breast surgical oncologist at Aga Khan University, Kenya, called the announcement a landmark moment.
“It is a privilege to welcome the global cancer community to Nairobi for the 2027 Summit. This provides a platform to strengthen regional and global partnerships and reaffirm Africa’s leadership in cancer control,” she said.
The World Cancer Leaders’ Summit is a key forum for collaboration, policy dialogue, and innovation in cancer care globally.
Hosting the 2027 edition positions Kenya as a hub for research, treatment, and policy development while underlining the country’s dedication to universal health coverage and international health cooperation.
“Through these high-level engagements, we believe that the battle against cancer will [be] won,” NCI-K said.
The Nairobi gathering aims to elevate Africa’s perspective in global cancer discussions, highlighting the continent’s unique challenges, innovations, and strides toward equitable access to cancer services.
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