This archive report was first published on 2 August 2019.
My grandmother, Njoki, passed away on July 22, 2001, leaving a profound impact on my life. As I reflect on her memory, I am reminded of the importance of addressing cancer in Kenya, a country where millions of people struggle to access treatment due to high medical bills.
My grandmother came to live with us in April 2000, and I was 10 years old at the time. We formed a close bond, and I would wake up every morning to her singing and praying. She would pray for her children, grandchildren, and husband, and I would quietly get ready for school.
As her health deteriorated in early 2001, I became her constant 'prayer request.' I remember the last time I saw her, just a few days before her passing, when I came home from school to find my parents carrying her to a waiting car. She whispered to me, 'No, that's yours, I left that for you,' as I handed her an overnight bag and a banana.
Studies have shown that nearly 90 Kenyans die from cancer daily, which translates to 2,700 deaths in July alone. This is a staggering number, and it's heartbreaking to think that many of these individuals are not 'prominent personalities' who make headlines.
As we mourn the loss of Joyce Laboso, Ken Okoth, and Bob Collymore, I hope that this will also be a time to remember the millions of Kenyans who are unable to access cancer treatment due to financial constraints. I also hope that this will be the time that we finally begin to set up an all-inclusive solid healthcare system.
One of the wealthiest families in Kenya could set up a well-equipped cancer hospital offering subsidized medical attention to the millions of poor cancer patients. This would not only be a social responsibility but also a productive way to clear their conscience.
Ms. Chege is the director of the Innovation Centre at the Aga Khan University Graduate School of Media and Communications.
