Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Hospitals in Kenya

Pediatric hematology-oncology is a specialized field of medicine focused on diagnosing and treating children with blood disorders and cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, sickle cell disease, and thalassemia. In Kenya, access to quality pediatric hematology-oncology care is critical, given the rising burden of childhood cancers and blood disorders. This article explores the key hospitals and facilities in Kenya providing these specialized services, highlighting their contributions to pediatric care.

The Landscape of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology in Kenya

Childhood cancer is a growing concern in Kenya, with approximately 3,000 new cases diagnosed annually, though this figure may be underreported due to diagnostic challenges. Common pediatric cancers in Kenya include non-Hodgkin lymphoma, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, Wilms tumor, and retinoblastoma. Blood disorders like sickle cell disease and thalassemia are also prevalent, particularly in certain regions. Despite these challenges, Kenya has made strides in developing specialized care through dedicated hospitals and partnerships with international organizations.

Key Hospitals Providing Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Services

1. Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), Nairobi

Kenyatta National Hospital, located in Nairobi, is Kenya’s largest public referral hospital and a leading center for pediatric hematology-oncology. The hospital’s Pediatric Oncology Unit is staffed by a dedicated team of specialists, including three of the country’s four pediatric hematology-oncology consultants: Dr. Sarah Muma, Dr. Catherine Muendo, and Dr. Bernice Mukuria. KNH offers comprehensive care for children with cancer and blood disorders, including chemotherapy, blood transfusions, and supportive care. The hospital collaborates with academic institutions and international partners to enhance training and research in pediatric oncology. However, as a public facility, KNH faces challenges such as high patient volumes and resource constraints.

2. The Shoe4Africa Juli Anne Perry Cancer Children’s Hospital, Eldoret

Located in Eldoret, the Shoe4Africa Juli Anne Perry Cancer Children’s Hospital is sub-Saharan Africa’s first dedicated public children’s cancer hospital. Opened in collaboration with Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital and Moi University Medical School, this facility addresses the critical need for specialized pediatric oncology care outside Nairobi. The hospital treats common childhood cancers, including lymphoma and leukemia, and aims to increase survival rates from the current 25% to over 50% through improved supportive care and infrastructure. Plans are underway to introduce radiotherapy services and train more pediatric oncologists, with training programs set to begin in 2019. The hospital’s proximity to Moi University facilitates research and capacity building.

3. Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), Nairobi

Aga Khan University Hospital is a private, not-for-profit tertiary care facility renowned for its advanced medical services. AKUH provides pediatric hematology-oncology care through its multidisciplinary team, offering treatments such as chemotherapy, bone marrow transplants, and management of blood disorders like sickle cell disease and hemophilia. As a teaching hospital, AKUH emphasizes evidence-based care and research, supported by its Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation. The hospital’s advanced diagnostic capabilities, including imaging and laboratory services, ensure accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plans. However, the cost of care at AKUH may be a barrier for some families.

4. HCG CCK Cancer Centre, Nairobi

HCG CCK Cancer Centre in Parklands, Nairobi, is East Africa’s first private comprehensive cancer center. While not exclusively focused on pediatrics, the center provides advanced oncology services for children, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy. The facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by experienced oncologists who adopt a patient-centric, multidisciplinary approach. HCG CCK is highly regarded for its compassionate care and clean, well-maintained environment, making it a preferred choice for families seeking private care. The center also emphasizes infection control, a critical factor for immunocompromised pediatric patients.

5. Nairobi Radiotherapy & Cancer Center (NRCC), Nairobi

Nairobi Radiotherapy & Cancer Center is another key facility offering oncology services in Nairobi. NRCC provides specialized radiotherapy and medical oncology consulting, including treatments for pediatric cancers. The center’s team of dedicated oncologists and supportive care professionals focuses on personalized treatment plans to improve quality of life. NRCC is committed to advancing cancer care through innovative diagnostics and compassionate service, making it a valuable option for pediatric patients requiring radiotherapy.

Challenges and Opportunities

Kenya’s pediatric hematology-oncology sector faces several challenges, including a shortage of trained specialists, limited access to advanced treatments like bone marrow transplants, and financial barriers for families. Only three pediatric oncologists are currently based in Nairobi, though training programs in Eldoret aim to address this gap. Additionally, 54% of Kenyan children abandon treatment due to financial constraints and travel difficulties, highlighting the need for decentralized care and financial support systems.

Despite these challenges, opportunities for improvement exist. International collaborations, such as those with the Children’s Oncology Group and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, provide access to clinical trials and advanced therapies. The World Health Organization’s goal of achieving a 60% survival rate for childhood cancer by 2030 has spurred initiatives like the Shoe4Africa hospital. Public-private partnerships and increased investment in training can further enhance Kenya’s capacity to deliver world-class pediatric care.

 

Kenya’s pediatric hematology-oncology hospitals, including Kenyatta National Hospital, Shoe4Africa Juli Anne Perry Cancer Children’s Hospital, Aga Khan University Hospital, HCG CCK Cancer Centre, and Nairobi Radiotherapy & Cancer Center, play a vital role in addressing the needs of children with cancer and blood disorders. While challenges persist, these institutions are making significant strides through specialized care, advanced technology, and capacity-building initiatives. Continued investment in infrastructure, training, and accessibility will be crucial to improving outcomes for Kenya’s youngest patients.

References
-: The Shoe4Africa Juli Anne Perry Cancer Children’s Hospital
-: HCG CCK Cancer Centre Nairobi
-: Best Hematology Hospitals in Kenya
-: Nairobi Radiotherapy & Cancer Center
-: Posted by @DKLDrKalebiLabs, June 17, 2025