Khartoum: Health Minister Dr. Haitham Mohamed Ibrahim has engaged in discussions with Lisa Stevens, Director of the Programme of Action for Cancer Therapy (PACT) at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), focusing on strengthening cooperation to address cancer challenges in Sudan.
According to Sudan News Agency, the meeting addressed the dire health conditions in Sudan, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict with the rebel Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia. The conflict has severely impacted the health sector, leading to the closure of several major hospitals, especially in Khartoum and Shendi. However, the main Madani Hospital has resumed services, providing treatment to cancer patients.
Dr. Haitham Mohamed Ibrahim reaffirmed the government’s dedication to supporting the establishment of specialized cancer therapy centers. He highlighted ongoing collaborations with several countries and the African Development Bank to set up centers focusing on women’s cancer. He expressed gratitude for Sudan’s inclus
ion in the IAEA’s “Rays of Hope” initiative.
Lisa Stevens expressed her eagerness to meet the Sudanese Health Minister in Vienna in July to further explore technical and medical cooperation opportunities. She emphasized the importance of early detection, radiotherapy, drug provision, and building the capacity of Sudanese medical personnel.
Both parties concluded the meeting by expressing their commitment to enhancing cooperation and partnership in the fight against cancer, with the IAEA pledging to provide technical and training support to improve health services for cancer patients in Sudan.