Ethiopia Launches Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Initiative to Combat Childhood Cancer

Addis Ababa, January 12, 2026 (ENA)—In a historic step for the nation’s healthcare system, Ethiopia has officially launched the Ethiopian Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Society (ESPHO), a strategic initiative aimed at transforming care for children battling cancer and blood disorders.

The inaugural ceremony in Addis Ababa brought together hundreds of healthcare professionals and was attended by State Minister of Health, Dr. Dereje Duguma, alongside senior officials.

Dr. Dereje described the launch as a ‘paradigm shift’ in Ethiopia’s approach to children’s healthcare.

“Addressing pediatric cancer requires a unified front,” he said.

“ESPHO is essential for gathering data, training specialized personnel, and ensuring early diagnosis. The Ministry of Health is committed to working alongside this society to build a resilient healthcare infrastructure for our children,” Dereje underlined.

Pediatric cancer remains a pressing challenge in Ethiopia, with an estimated 6,000 to 8,000 children diagnosed annually, yet fewer than 2,000 receiving timely treatment.

 In response, the Ministry of Health has unveiled a five-year roadmap to expand screening, improve access to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and increase the number of specialized treatment centers nationwide.

On his part, Dr. Abel Hailu, President of ESPHO, highlighted the remarkable progress made over the last decade.

“Fifteen years ago, pediatric oncology services were virtually non-existent. Today, we have eight hospitals providing radiotherapy and seven specialized clinics,” he said.

Dr. Abel also emphasized the society’s holistic approach, which includes training over 30 pediatric oncologists, implementing nutrition programs to combat treatment-related malnutrition, and providing mental health support to 3,000 young patients.

The launch drew international acclaim.

 Prof. Jennifer Geel, President of the International Society of Paediatric Oncology (SIOP), expressed optimism that Ethiopia’s cure rates—currently lower than those in wealthier nations—could rise to 50 precent, with a long-term aim of matching the 85 percent survival rates achieved globally.

Prof. Sheila Weitzman of the University of Toronto stressed the importance of localized research to ensure treatments are tailored to Ethiopia’s specific environmental and resource contexts.

Looking ahead, ESPHO aims to reach a 60 percent global survival rate by 2030 and will host the 2027 SIOP Africa Conference, signaling Ethiopia’s growing leadership in pediatric oncology.

National Honorary Ambassador Lelise Dhuga summed up the day’s spirit: “Today begins a new journey where no child should lose their life to cancer simply because of where they were born.”