Background

Starting in early 2012, a group of community based cancer awareness and patient support groups started discussions about how to come together in the fight against cancer in Kenya. On February 8, 2013, one week after World Cancer Day 2013, the Kenyan Network of Cancer Organizations (KENCO) was launched.

The first stakeholder meeting brought together sixteen representatives from ten cancer organizations, with specialization in cancer prevention, palliative care, patient support, community outreach and advocacy. Through word-of-mouth, the Network has expanded to eighteen [18] community-based cancer organizations. The Network meets on a quarterly basis, and there is a vibrant online forum for member organizations to share ideas and exchange information relevant to fighting cancer in Kenya.