NAIROBI, Kenya – In a move to combat the rising cancer burden in Africa, biopharmaceutical leader AstraZeneca has unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at revolutionizing early detection and treatment across the continent.
The company announced the introduction of advanced molecular diagnostic testing for lung cancer in Kenya and Nigeria, alongside the launch of an AI-powered breast cancer detection tool in South Africa.
These efforts, unveiled in commemoration of World Cancer Day 2025, underscore AstraZeneca’s commitment to addressing the unique challenges of cancer care in underserved regions.
Under the theme “United by Unique,” AstraZeneca emphasized the importance of patient-centered care, innovative solutions, and collaborative partnerships in transforming cancer outcomes.
The company’s initiatives are designed to tackle the critical gaps in cancer diagnostics and treatment that have long plagued sub-Saharan Africa, where delayed diagnoses and limited access to care contribute to disproportionately high mortality rates.
Revolutionizing Diagnostics in Kenya and Nigeria
In Kenya, AstraZeneca is collaborating with the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) to enhance molecular testing infrastructure for lung cancer, a disease often diagnosed at advanced stages due to limited diagnostic capabilities.
Similarly, in Nigeria, the company is partnering with the Federal Ministry of Health to expand access to precision diagnostics.
These efforts are part of AstraZeneca’s broader Cancer Care Africa programme, which seeks to empower patients, improve diagnostic accuracy, and increase access to cutting-edge treatments.
“Early detection is the cornerstone of effective cancer care,” said Khomotso Mashilane, Medical Director at AstraZeneca. “By leveraging advanced technologies and fostering partnerships, we aim to transform the cancer care landscape in Africa and improve outcomes for patients.”
AI-Powered Breast Cancer Detection in South Africa
In South Africa, AstraZeneca has partnered with Medsol AI Solutions to launch Project Flamingo, an AI-driven innovation that promises to revolutionize breast cancer detection.
The app, which has demonstrated an impressive 97.6% accuracy in predicting malignancies, enables real-time breast ultrasound scans and predictive analysis.
This breakthrough is particularly significant for underserved communities, where access to diagnostic services is often limited.
Project Flamingo not only supports early detection efforts but also alleviates pressure on overburdened public health systems.
By enabling healthcare providers to identify potential malignancies quickly and accurately, the tool has the potential to save countless lives and reduce the economic burden of late-stage cancer treatment.
A Growing Crisis in Sub-Saharan Africa
The urgency of AstraZeneca’s initiatives cannot be overstated.
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death globally, with sub-Saharan Africa bearing a disproportionate share of the burden.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer mortality in the region could nearly double by 2030 if current trends continue.
Limited access to diagnostic tools, a shortage of specialized healthcare providers, and inadequate infrastructure have created significant barriers to effective cancer care.
AstraZeneca’s efforts aim to address these challenges head-on.
By integrating advanced diagnostics, AI-driven technologies, and patient-centered solutions, the company is paving the way for a new era of cancer care in Africa.
“On this World Cancer Day, we honor every patient’s unique journey and reaffirm our dedication to advancing science and delivering meaningful care,” Mashilane stated.
Headquartered in Cambridge, UK, AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and is renowned for its pioneering work in oncology, rare diseases, and biopharmaceuticals.
The company’s latest initiatives in Africa reflect its broader mission to improve global health outcomes through innovation and collaboration.
