Zimbabwe Advocacy Project
Zimbabwe is experiencing a significant rise in cancer incidence, with approximately 8,500 new cases diagnosed annually. Among these, cervical cancer constitutes about 38% of the total cancer burden in women, making it the leading cancer type in the country. Breast cancer follows closely, accounting for 12.5% of all cancer cases among women. In 2018, there were 2,743 cancer-related deaths recorded, with cervical cancer being the leading cause of cancer mortality, responsible for 13% of these deaths.
A concerning trend is the late-stage diagnosis of cancer; approximately 80% of cases are identified at stages 3 or 4, which significantly reduces treatment success rates. Factors contributing to this include limited awareness, inadequate screening services, and financial barriers to accessing timely medical care. The national health system faces challenges such as resource constraints, fragmented cancer registries, and insufficient integration of cancer prevention into primary healthcare services. These systemic issues hinder early detection and treatment, leading to poor survival outcomes for many women.
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Background
The African Cancer Organisation (ACO) has joined forces with the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) Cancer Advocates Programme, a global initiative that empowers civil society organisations to strengthen national cancer advocacy. Through this project, ACO will develop a National Cancer Advocacy Strategy for Zimbabwe, build coalitions with key stakeholders, and engage policymakers to prioritise cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, and palliative care. By combining international mentorship with local action, the project aims to reduce inequities in cancer care and ensure that underserved communities — especially women and rural populations — are not left behind.
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Problem Statement
Cancer remains a growing public health challenge in Zimbabwe, with many patients diagnosed at late stages and limited access to affordable treatment. This project provides ACO with the opportunity to develop a coordinated national advocacy strategy, build coalitions, and ensure that cancer prevention, treatment, and care are prioritised in the country’s health agenda.
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Project Goal
To strengthen national cancer advocacy in Zimbabwe through the development and implementation of a National Cancer Advocacy Strategy.​
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Project Objectives
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To influence policymakers and stakeholders to prioritise cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, and palliative care in national health planning.
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To build strong coalitions and networks that amplify the voices of patients, survivors, and communities.
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To address health inequities by ensuring underserved populations, particularly women and rural communities, have access to cancer services.
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Key Activities
Capacity Building
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Participate in UICC-led training workshops, mentorship, and peer-to-peer learning sessions.
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Strengthen ACO’s internal advocacy skills and leadership capacity.
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Strategy Development
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Refine and finalise a National Cancer Advocacy Strategy tailored to Zimbabwe’s health system.
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Align advocacy priorities with national health policies and global cancer control frameworks.
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Coalition Building
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Engage with local civil society organisations, medical associations, and patient groups.
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Establish a national coalition to coordinate advocacy efforts.
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Policy Engagement
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Conduct advocacy meetings with policymakers, parliamentarians, and government ministries.
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Push for increased investment in cancer prevention, screening, and treatment.
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Community Mobilisation
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Raise awareness about cancer prevention and early detection.
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Reduce stigma and misinformation through public campaigns and community dialogues.
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Expected Outcome
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A comprehensive National Cancer Advocacy Strategy developed and adopted.
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Stronger coalitions and partnerships for cancer advocacy in Zimbabwe.
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Increased government commitment and investment in cancer control.
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Improved public awareness and reduced stigma around cancer.
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Enhanced visibility of Zimbabwe’s cancer advocacy efforts on the global stage.
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Target Beneficiaries
Primary Target
Policymakers, parliamentarians, and government ministries responsible for health policy and resource allocation.
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Secondary Target
Civil society organisations, medical associations, and patient advocacy groups.
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Tertiary Target
Communities, especially underserved populations in rural areas and women disproportionately affected by cancer.
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Sustainability Strategy
The sustainability of this project rests on three pillars — local ownership, policy integration, and diversified resources. By embedding advocacy into Zimbabwe’s health system, strengthening coalitions, and empowering communities, ACO will ensure that the impact of this partnership extends well beyond the project life cycle.
