Ethiopia Taking Bold Steps to Expand Cancer Treatment, Research, and Radiation Therapy: DPM Temesgen Tiruneh

Addis Ababa, June 30, 2025 (ENA) --- Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh has affirmed that Ethiopia is taking bold, strategic steps to enhance access to cancer treatment, research, and radiation therapy as part of its broader commitment to strengthening the national healthcare system.

Speaking at an international conference co-hosted by the Ministry of Health and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), themed “Rays of Hope,” the Deputy Prime Minister outlined Ethiopia’s vision for a more responsive, inclusive, and technology-driven health sector.

The event, held at the African Union Conference Hall in Addis Ababa, was attended by IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi, Minister of Health Mekdes Daba, diplomats, ambassadors, and key stakeholders in global health.

 

In his keynote address, Temesgen emphasized the evolving global health landscape and Ethiopia’s determination to build a resilient healthcare system.

He cited the Health Extension Program as a major success story, attributing improved service delivery to a growing trained health professional.

The deputy prime minister noted that ongoing efforts to integrate advanced technologies into cancer treatment and ensure their safe use under a robust regulatory framework.

Expanding radiation therapy through the peaceful use of nuclear technology, he said, will enhance early cancer diagnosis and ultimately save lives.

Beyond cancer care, he also spotlighted the broader health impact of Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative, linking environmental sustainability to improved public health outcomes.

The deputy prime minister called on development partners to play an active role in shaping global health systems, urging contributions that go beyond financial assistance.

Minister of  Health  Mekdes Daba, on her part,  stressed Ethiopia’s commitment to scaling up radiotherapy services, with new cancer treatment centers under construction in multiple cities.

 

A major focus of the expansion is the early detection of cancer, particularly among children, she said, noting plans to establish satellite clinics dedicated to pediatric oncology.

Ethiopia is updating its National Cancer Control Plan, aiming to strengthen cancer prevention, screening, treatment, and palliative care, while also addressing financial barriers that hinder access to services, the minister emphasized.

IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi described cancer as one of the leading causes of death globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

 

Through the “Rays of Hope” initiative, he said, the IAEA is working to expand access to radiotherapy and diagnostic imaging in over 20 member states that currently lack such services.

“Countless individuals living with cancer today have little or no access to treatment. Through Rays of Hope, we are committed to changing that reality,” Grossi stated.

State Minister of Health Dereje Duguma also presented Ethiopia’s progress in cancer control, including the launch of the National Cancer Control Plan 2025–2029, aimed at improving access to diagnostic and treatment services.

 

He also noted the ongoing construction of new radiotherapy centers in Gondar, Hawassa, Harar, and Mekelle, which will complement the existing facilities in Addis Ababa.

The state minister also stated the establishment of a comprehensive oncology center through a public-private partnership, and reaffirmed Ethiopia’s dedication to improving childhood cancer care through specialized clinics, professional training, and early detection programs.