Introduction

Ghanaian nurse and winner of the 2025 Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award, Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, has officially launched the Cancer Care Africa Foundation (CanCAF), alongside its flagship initiative, the Cancer Genetic Counselling Certificate Programme for Oncology Nurses in Africa (CGCP-ON Africa).

This marks a significant milestone in Africa’s progress toward stronger and more equitable cancer care.

Event Overview

The event was held at the West African Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC) at the University of Ghana. It brought together policymakers, healthcare leaders, development partners, oncology professionals, academic institutions, and religious leaders.

All stakeholders shared a common commitment to improving cancer outcomes across Ghana and the African continent.

Founder’s Vision

In her address, Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, Founder and Executive Director of the Cancer Care Africa Foundation, described the moment as a deliberate effort to transform cancer care.

“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. This launch represents an urgent effort to change that story.”

She highlighted key challenges including:

Late detection
Limited awareness
Critical workforce gaps

She emphasized that behind every statistic are real people whose lives depend on earlier diagnosis and better care.

About the Programme (CGCP-ON Africa)

The Cancer Genetic Counselling Certificate Programme for Oncology Nurses in Africa (CGCP-ON Africa) is a first-of-its-kind training initiative tailored specifically for oncology nurses across Africa.

The programme focuses on:

Genetic counselling
Precision oncology
Improving access to modern cancer care

Dr. Jemima Dennis Antwi, CEO of the Center for Health Development and Research (CEHDAR), emphasized:

“Genetic counselling is not just science; it is about people, culture, and trust.”

Government and Institutional Support

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Health, Dr. Hafiz Adams commended the initiative for aligning with national priorities under the Cancer Control Plan.

He noted the importance of:

Genomics
Innovation
Data-driven healthcare

“When we empower nurses, we invest in lives saved and families strengthened.”

Other speakers, including Prof. Alfred Edwin Yawson and Dr. Amma Benneh, highlighted the rising cancer burden and the need for research-driven collaboration.