Karura MCA Fiu Nifiu and former Regional Development Minister Fred Ngumo./HANDOUT
The inaugural Liver Cancer Awareness Walk was held at Sigiria, Karura Forest, bringing together dozens of participants under the theme “Fight Liver Cancer — Fuelling Hope.”
The event was spearheaded by the Friends of Ben Kijuu Foundation to mark Mazingira Day, with the aim of raising public awareness about liver cancer, promoting early screening, and encouraging healthy living among Kenyans.
The walk was flagged off by Karura MCA Fiu Nifiu and former Regional Development Minister Fred Ngumo, who both commended the organizers for linking environmental conservation with health advocacy.
They noted that initiatives like this offer a creative platform to discuss lifestyle-related diseases while reminding Kenyans of the vital role a clean environment plays in overall wellness.
In his remarks, Ngumo praised the Foundation for its community-centred approach, urging Kenyans to take charge of their health through regular check-ups and healthy dietary practices.
“By bringing people together to walk for both health and the environment, this event sends a strong message — that we must take care of both our bodies and our planet,” he said.
Representatives from the Ben Kijuu Foundation highlighted the urgent need for early detection and treatment of liver cancer, which remains one of the most fatal cancers in the country due to late diagnosis.
They emphasized that awareness campaigns such as this walk are essential in helping people understand the risk factors, including excessive alcohol consumption, hepatitis infections, and poor dietary habits.
Participants enjoyed a refreshing nature walk through the scenic forest trails, symbolizing the close link between a healthy environment and human well-being.
Volunteers also distributed educational materials on liver health, nutrition, and preventive care.
The event concluded with a call to action for increased investment in cancer screening facilities, especially at community and county levels, to make early testing more accessible and affordable.
Through this initiative, the Ben Kijuu Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to community wellness, environmental protection, and public health education.
“Together, we walk for health, for hope, and for a liver cancer–free future,” the Foundation said in a statement, expressing optimism that the annual event will grow to reach more communities across the country.
Health experts have been raising alarm over the rising cases of liver cancer in Kenya, linking the trend to increased alcohol consumption, hepatitis infections, and late diagnosis.
According to the Ministry of Health, liver cancer ranks among the top five most common cancers in the country, with men being more affected than women.
Specialists warn that most patients are diagnosed at advanced stages, reducing chances of successful treatment.
