ALGIERS, February 5, 2025 – The African Network for cancer control was officially launched on Wednesday in Algiers, with representatives from fourteen countries across the continent in attendance. The network’s primary objective is to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange in the fight against cancer while enhancing patient care.
The formation of this pan-African network, which will be headquartered in Algiers, was formalized through the signing of a memorandum of cooperation and exchange among the participating states during the second day of the first international Congress for cancer patients, which commenced the previous day under the theme “Voice of the Patient.”
Held under the patronage of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, the event was co-organized by the Algerian Federation of Associations of Cancer Patients (FAAPAC) and the National Observatory for Civil Society (ONSC), in partnership with the Ministry of Health.
The signing ceremony was attended by Professor Habib Douagui, President of the Health, Labor, and Social Affairs Commission of the Council of the Nation; Dr. Djamila Nadir, representing the Ministry of Health; and various members from institutions and civil society organizations.
“This marks a historic moment for an African alliance against cancer, highlighted by this memorandum of cooperation aimed at improving the realities surrounding this disease on the continent,” stated FAAPAC President Hamida Kettab during a press briefing following the signing.
She emphasized that the network would establish “a platform for cooperation and exchange among African associations and organizations” and would provide “a roadmap addressing prevention, early detection, therapeutic follow-up, and advocacy related to cancer.”
Kettab underscored Algeria’s extensive expertise in this field, which the participating countries would benefit from, adding that the network would be supported by a digital platform containing data on incidence rates and risk factors, and it would also collaborate with international organizations and institutions.
For his part, ONSC President Noureddine Benbraham commended the establishment of this network, reiterating “the Observatory’s commitment to support it through a responsible and conscientious civil society that can positively impact African populations.”
During the meeting, presentations were made regarding the experiences of African countries in caring for and supporting cancer patients, showcasing Algeria’s advancements in this area and designating it as “a model to follow.”
A closed-door session was scheduled to discuss the technical and organizational aspects of the new network, including the election of its presiding country, as well as the recommendations adopted by participants concerning the missions and actions to be undertaken within this continental framework.
