For many people in countries like Uganda, finding out they have cancer is very scary since cancer is often viewed as a death sentence because of the poor five-year survival rates in Africa. It is associated with complex and distressing symptoms such as pain, fatigue, breathlessness, and cachexia. These symptoms can be managed and suffering reduced-if the appropriate medicines are available.
The World Health Organisation approved an essential medicines list to support services in managing patient symptoms. However, in most African countries, these medicines are not always available. This lack of access exposes families to financial hardship. Those who cannot afford the medicines are left to endure severe symptoms and suffering, which negatively affects their quality of life.
The African Palliative Care Association is committed to working with governments and key stakeholders to ensure access to essential, affordable cancer medicines and diagnostics across Africa.
On 25th February 2026, the Access to Oncology Medicines (ATOM) Coalition, together with local partners in Uganda, officially launched ATOM in Uganda at an event held at Sheraton Hotel in Kampala.
Before the main launch, on 24th February, doctors, nurses, and representatives from different organizations met at Emin Pasha Hotel to discuss cancer care. They shared ideas on how to help children, families, and communities receive care closer to home. They agreed that working together is the only way to save more lives.
At the launch, leaders from the Ministry of Health Uganda, the World Health Organization, Uganda Cancer Institute, National Drug Authority, African Palliative Care Association, UICC, and ANANDA Centre for Cancer Research pledged to ensure that medicines reach people safely. The Ministry of Health also signed an agreement with UICC to demonstrate its commitment.
The ATOM program will support Uganda by:
- Getting medicines to the people who need them
- Training doctors, nurses, and health workers
- Finding ways to pay for medicines so families are not left without help
For Ugandans facing cancer, this initiative shows that where you live should not determine whether you live or die from a treatable disease. With ATOM, governments, APCA, and other stakeholders working together, more cancer patients across Africa will be able to access the care and medicines they need to fight cancer and live longer, healthier lives.
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