New Paediatric Oncologist Brings Fresh Hope for Children with Cancer at Jaramogi hospital

Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital CEO Joshua Okise and the newly appointed Dr Brenda Misore as the first pediatric oncologist at JOOTRH/FAITH MATETE

Children battling cancer in Western Kenya can now access specialised care closer to home following the appointment of Dr Brenda Misore as the first pediatric oncologist at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH).

 Dr Misore’s arrival marks a major milestone for the hospital, which is establishing a dedicated pediatric oncology unit to strengthen early diagnosis, treatment and follow-up for young cancer patients.

 “I am excited to be part of this transformative journey,” said Dr Misore during her official reception at the facility.

 She said Kenya’s childhood cancer survival rate stands at about 40 per cent, compared to 80 per cent globally.

 “Our mission is to close that gap through early detection, quality treatment and comprehensive family support.”

 She emphasised that prompt diagnosis remains the cornerstone of survival for childhood cancers, many of which are highly curable if treated in time.

 “The earlier we identify and begin treatment, the higher the chances of recovery,” she said.

 Until now, children from Kisumu and neighbouring counties had to travel to Eldoret or Nairobi for specialised oncology care, a challenge that often resulted in late presentation, interrupted treatment and heavy financial strain on families.

 “With this new unit, families will no longer need to endure long, costly journeys to access chemotherapy or follow-up care,” Dr Misore said.

 “It will ease their emotional and financial burden while ensuring better treatment adherence and improved outcomes.”

 JOOTRH chief executive officer Joshua Okise hailed Dr Misore’s appointment as a defining moment for the hospital and the region’s healthcare landscape.

 “Having a pediatric oncologist in Kisumu is a game-changer,” Okise said.

 He said this development reaffirms commitment to expanding specialised care, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children living with cancer.

 He added that the upcoming unit will not only offer treatment but also spearhead public awareness campaigns to promote early health-seeking behaviour and debunk myths surrounding childhood cancer.

 “This is a bold step toward equitable cancer care,” Okise said, adding that children in Western Kenya deserve the same quality of care as those anywhere else in the world.

 The pediatric oncology unit is expected to begin operations soon, signaling renewed hope for thousands of children and families in the region who have long awaited accessible cancer treatment.