NAC Boosts Child Cancer Fight With US$109,000 Support to KIDZCAN

By Edward Makuzva 

Zimbabwe’s response to HIV and AIDS has taken a decisive step into broader public health protection, following the handover of a US$109,000 package from the National AIDS Council (NAC) to KIDZCAN to strengthen childhood cancer services.

Speaking at the ceremony held at NAC headquarters in Harare on Monday, Minister of Health and Child Care Dr. Douglas Mombeshora described the support as a strategic investment that aligns national health priorities and maximises the impact of limited resources.

Dr Mombeshora noted that people living with HIV face a higher risk of developing certain cancers because of immune suppression and chronic inflammation. “It is therefore fitting that NAC extends its support to an area so closely linked to the HIV burden,” he said.

He highlighted that childhood cancer as a “silent crisis,” one that rarely attracts public attention but places severe strain on families. Many households face overwhelming expenses for diagnosis, treatment, transport and accommodation costs that often lead to delayed care or abandonment of treatment.

The NAC support, channelled through KIDZCAN, will fund essential medicines, strengthen diagnostic services and expand awareness campaigns. 

The minister reaveled that these interventions are vital as the country works to revitalise its health sector.

He commended NAC for demonstrating flexibility and national commitment at a time when external financial support has declined.

 He cited recent NAC investments in Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, where the council equipped blood and renal units with modern machinery. 

“You have shown that the AIDS levy is a strategic national resource supporting the wider health system”, Dr Mombeshora added.

Dr. Mombeshora also praised KIDZCAN for its dedication to supporting children with cancer and urged the organisation to use the funds efficiently and transparently.

 “Every dollar saved and every life touched will be the true measure of this investment,” he said, reaffirming his ministry’s partnership.

To parents and guardians of children battling cancer, the minister offered assurance. “We see you. We hear you. This support is for you. We will walk this journey with you until every child has the opportunity to live a healthy life,” said Dr Mombeshora.

The initiative signals a growing integration of health responses in Zimbabwe, linking HIV resources to broader national health priorities and strengthening support for one of the country’s most vulnerable groups children fighting cancer.