In a recent interview, Felicitas Ngubo, a passionate breast cancer survivor and advocate for childhood cancer awareness in Zimbabwe, expressed deep concern over the pressing issue of childhood cancer in the country. She noted, “Many people do not recognize that children can indeed get cancer,” which results in late presentations at health facilities and delays in crucial detection and treatment. Felicitas emphasized, “Early detection is the best protection. The sooner we recognize the signs, the greater the chance of survival.”
Through her observations, she highlighted that the three most common childhood cancers in Zimbabwe are leukaemia, nephroblastoma (a type of kidney cancer), and retinoblastoma (an eye cancer). She explained, “Each of these has a far better chance of successful treatment when identified early.” It is imperative that parents, teachers, community leaders, traditional and faith healers, and healthcare providers actively recognize symptoms and promptly refer children for diagnosis and treatment. She stated, “Unexplained fevers, persistent pain, weight loss, or unusual swellings should never be ignored. Even if only one out of 100 children is diagnosed with cancer, that child means everything to their family.” Felicitas reminded us, “It is far easier to uproot a small tree than a larger, entrenched one.” She urged, “Before cancer overwhelms a child’s small body, let’s detect it early and provide treatment with hope and determination.”
Felicitas explained that from the first visit to the local clinic, children suspected of having cancer are referred step by step within the public health system, with Parirenyatwa Hospital in Harare serving as the national centre of excellence for childhood cancer treatment. She noted, “This system functions optimally when communities act quickly and confidently, bringing sick children forward without hesitation.”
She expressed pride in organizations like KidzCan Zimbabwe, which complement government efforts by providing holistic support that is 100% free of charge to children aged 0–18. Felicitas shared, “Through valuable partnerships, KidzCan offers essential resources to families, including bus fares to prevent abandonment of treatment due to transport difficulties, chemotherapy drugs and diagnostic scans vital for effective treatment, and housing at the Rainbow Children’s Village for families traveling from afar.” She added, “They also provide nutrition packs, recognizing that proper nutrition is crucial for treatment, alongside psychosocial support to help families and children cope with the emotional toll of cancer.”
Felicitas recognized Zimbabwe’s rich cultural and religious fabric. She remarked, “Instead of viewing this as a barrier, I see it as an opportunity for collaborative engagement.” She elaborated, “That’s why we partner with respected religious bodies like the Apostolic Council of Churches of Zimbabwe and traditional associations, engaging with opinion leaders to spread the message about childhood cancer broadly.”
Zimbabwe takes pride in being part of the WHO Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC), which aims to raise global survival rates for children with cancer to at least 60% by 2030. Felicitas shared, “This initiative provides essential momentum and resources to strengthen early diagnosis, timely treatment, and equitable access to care—ensuring that no child is left behind due to their location or family circumstances.”
Looking ahead to 2026, Felicitas urged a focus on raising awareness about childhood cancer and the critical importance of early detection and treatment. She stated, “By mobilizing communities, engaging schools, and collaborating with healthcare providers and leaders, we can ensure that every child has access to the support they need.” She concluded, “We have an opportunity to make a significant impact, transforming how we perceive and address childhood cancer in Zimbabwe. Together, we can drive change and provide hope to families in need.”
With a call to action for September, she encouraged, “Let’s unite under a clear message: know the signs, act early, save lives. Childhood cancer is treatable, particularly when detected early, but we require a collective effort to make it happen.”
Felicitas asserted, “Together, Zimbabwe can rise to the challenge. By spreading awareness, acting early, and surrounding families with holistic support, we can give every child battling cancer the greatest gift – hope, healing, and the chance to live their dreams.”