Ghanaian nurse and 2025 Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award winner Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti has launched the Cancer Care Africa Foundation (CanCAF), alongside a regional training programme aimed at strengthening oncology nursing and cancer care across Africa.

The initiative, unveiled at the West African Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC) at the University of Ghana, also introduced the “Cancer Genetic Counselling Certificate Programme for Oncology Nurses in Africa” (CGCP-ON Africa), which organisers say is designed to improve cancer diagnosis, treatment support and patient outcomes.

“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,” Ohene Oti said.

“This dual launch represents a deliberate and urgent effort to change that story, ensuring that where a person lives no longer determines whether they survive cancer.”

She said the foundation was established to address persistent gaps in cancer care, including late diagnosis, limited awareness and shortages in specialist health workers.

“At the heart of this effort is the CGCP-ON Africa programme, an innovative training initiative and the first of its kind tailored specifically for oncology nurses across the continent,” she added.

Key stakeholders at the launch included policymakers, health professionals and development partners, who described the initiative as timely amid rising cancer cases in Africa.

Speaking at the event, Jemima Dennis Antwi, Chief Executive of the Center for Health Development and Research (CEHDAR), highlighted the importance of integrating science with cultural sensitivity in cancer care.

“Genetic counselling is not just science; it is about people, culture, and trust,” she said. “This programme is a strategic intervention that will bridge the gap between innovation and access while strengthening culturally responsive cancer care across Africa.”

On behalf of the Minister of Health, Hafiz Adams said the initiative aligns with Ghana’s national cancer control priorities, stressing the importance of workforce development in improving outcomes.

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

University of Ghana health officials and the West African Genetic Medicine Centre also backed the programme, warning that Africa’s growing cancer burden requires coordinated investment in training, research and early detection systems.

The foundation outlined six strategic priorities, including developing a continent-wide oncology nursing competency framework, expanding training and scholarships, strengthening early detection and advocacy, and improving policy engagement.

Organisers said the initiative aims to build a sustainable workforce capable of improving early diagnosis, treatment outcomes and equitable access to cancer care across Africa.