The government has stepped up efforts to scale up the uptake of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine among young girls, describing it as the most effective long-term intervention in the fight against cervical cancer.
Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni said the Ministry of Health is targeting over 90 per cent HPV vaccination coverage among girls aged between 10 and 14 years, with most of the exercise being conducted through structured, school-based programmes to ensure wide reach.
She stressed that the HPV vaccine is safe, globally approved and has been administered in Kenya for several years, urging parents and guardians to support the programme by allowing their children to be vaccinated.
“The HPV vaccination programme is not new. It has been ongoing, but we must now accelerate uptake if we are to decisively address the cervical cancer menace facing our women,” said Muthoni.
She noted that vaccinating girls before exposure to the virus significantly lowers the risk of developing cervical cancer later in life, adding that prevention through vaccination is far more effective and affordable than treating advanced cancer.
On cervical cancer screening among adult women, the PS said the government is targeting to screen at least 75 per cent of women countrywide to improve early detection and treatment so as to reduce mortality rates.
Cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in Kenya, largely because many patients seek medical attention when the disease is already at an advanced stage.
Health officials estimate that more than two-thirds of cervical cancer cases in the country are detected late, a challenge the ministry says can be addressed through regular screening, increased awareness and strengthened community outreach programmes.
Muthoni said the ministry is working closely with county governments to expand screening services and enhance public health systems, particularly at the grassroots level.
She also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve registration under the Social Health Authority (SHA) to ensure more Kenyans can access preventive and curative health services, alongside continued upgrading of health facilities across the country.
The PS was speaking during the launch of the Epuka Uchafu programme in Ruiru, Kiambu County, an initiative aimed at promoting cleanliness and reducing dirt-related illnesses within communities.
Kiambu County Executive Committee Member for Health, Elias Maina, said cervical cancer remains a public health concern in the county, even as screening turnout remains low despite the availability of services in most public hospitals and at the Thika Level Five Hospital cancer centre.
“Prevention and early screening are key. We urge women to come out in large numbers and get screened,” said Maina.
He added that HPV vaccination among school-going girls in Kiambu County has recorded encouraging uptake and will continue as part of sustained efforts to prevent cervical cancer.
By Muoki Charles
