Faith leaders unite to combat maternal and Cervical Cancer in Africa

Faith leaders from across Africa have converged in Nairobi for the Faith in Action Health Conference, launching a united campaign to tackle the continent’s growing maternal and cervical cancer crisis.

Organized by the African Health and Economic Transformation Initiative (AHETI), the two-day interfaith event brings together senior Catholic bishops, Muslim clerics, Protestant pastors, and health experts to drive life-saving interventions in their communities.

“This moment demands more than prayer; it demands action,” said Archbishop Philip Anyolo of Nairobi, calling on religious leaders to champion access to maternal care, HPV vaccination, and early cancer screening.

The conference responds to alarming statistics with Kenya reporting 342 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, and cervical cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women. Despite the availability of the HPV vaccine, uptake is under 30% due to stigma, misinformation, and limited access.

Health advocates at the forum, including Esther Mwangi of St. Francis Community Hospital and Benda Kithaka of Kilele Health, urged better public awareness and stronger faith-government collaboration to overcome barriers to care.

AHETI Executive Director Fr. Charles Chilufya highlighted ongoing efforts to mobilize pastoral agents and health professionals at the grassroots to promote accurate health information and increase vaccine confidence.

The event will culminate in a free medical camp on May 16–17 at St. Francis Community Hospital, targeting over 1,000 underserved residents with screenings, consultations, and education.

With faith leaders at the forefront, the initiative aims to shift public attitudes, save lives, and advance universal health coverage across Africa.