By Bilkis Abdulraheem Lawal
The World Health Organization (WHO) has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating cervical cancer across Africa, as the continent marks World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day 2025.
Dr Mohamed Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa, delivered a message celebrating major progress while urging Member States to step up efforts to save women from the preventable disease.
Cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer death among African women, despite being highly preventable. According to WHO, the tools to achieve elimination already exist – including the HPV vaccine, routine screening, and early treatment. Yet, access remains uneven.
“Elimination is within reach. The challenge before us is to make these tools accessible to every girl and every woman, everywhere,” Dr Janabi said.
Across the Region, 32 countries have already integrated the HPV vaccine into national immunisation schedules, reaching nearly half of all eligible girls. Several countries introduced the vaccine this year, and at least eight more are preparing to roll out in 2026.
The WHO-supported Women’s Integrated Cancer Services (WICS) initiative is also helping countries embed cervical and breast cancer screening into primary healthcare services. It was presented to African health ministers during the 75th Session of the WHO Regional Committee, offering a practical model for advancing women’s health.
In partnership with organisations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency and the International Agency for Research on Cancer, WHO is supporting national cancer control plans and strengthening surgical and diagnostic capacity. Countries like Angola, Namibia, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Sierra Leone, Botswana, and Kenya are already reporting gains in training, screening, and treatment.
However, Dr Janabi warned that more must be done to address gaps in access, quality, and financing.
“Too many women still lack access to screening, diagnosis and treatment. Eliminating cervical cancer will demand sustained commitment, financing and coordination from governments, partners, communities and individuals alike.”
He called on all African governments to accelerate national action under WHO’s Global Strategy for Cervical Cancer Elimination, which rests on three pillars: 90% HPV vaccination coverage, 70% screening coverage, and 90% access to treatment.
Dr Janabi added: “Together, we can make elimination a reality, securing a future where every woman in Africa, wherever she lives, has access to the protection, care and dignity she deserves.”
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