Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga /HANDOUT
The Kenyan Network of Cancer Organizations (KENCO) has expressed solidarity with Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga following her decision to publicly share her cancer journey.
Wanga disclosed that she has lived through a cancer journey spanning about 12 years.
She made the revelation during the commissioning of the Phoebe Asiyo Oncology Centre at Homa Bay County Teaching and Referral Hospital on August 27.
The governor also highlighted the importance of bringing comprehensive cancer services closer to residents of Homa Bay and the wider region.
In a statement issued on Monday, KENCO commended Wanga for her courage and openness in sharing her experience of diagnosis and treatment.
“Cancer is not merely a medical diagnosis; it affects individuals, families, livelihoods and communities, often bringing significant emotional, social and financial challenges,” KENCO said.
The organisation said sharing personal cancer experiences helps break the silence surrounding the disease, challenge stigma and give hope to people undergoing similar journeys.
“Governor Wanga's story is a powerful reminder that behind every cancer statistic is a person, a family and a story,” KENCO said.
The governor last week said the diagnosis was made when she had just been elected to parliament.
“People were crying everywhere, but I wasn’t crying. I kept telling them what Beth Mugo told me it is your mind that is going to kill you, it is not the cancer” she said.
Wanga described the cancer centre as a personal initiative following her cancer journey.
KENCO also extended its support to people undergoing diagnosis and treatment, cancer survivors, caregivers and families who have lost loved ones to the disease.
The organisation called on national and county governments, healthcare institutions, civil society, the private sector, development partners and communities to work together to ensure equitable, affordable and comprehensive cancer care for Kenyans.
