Bridging the Cancer prevention, diagnosis and care gaps in Lesotho

By: Michael Mike

In a country where cancer prevention, diagnosis, and care have historically been limited, the personal journeys of survivors like Maatang Chaka and Joalane Tsupaneare beacons of hope and resilience.

Tebo, a 49-year-old mother from Maseru District, and Joalane, a 19-year-old leukemia survivor, represent the strength and determination of many cancer patients in Lesotho. Their stories of survival and advocacy highlight the urgent need to bridge the gaps in cancer services in the nation.

Chaka’s battle with stage 3 breast cancer began in 2011 while she was working in the mines of Mokhotlong District. Reflecting on her journey, she recalls, “It started as a pain in my right breast. After a medical examination, I was told there was a lump. At that time, I didn’t know about cancer, so I couldn’t understand how serious my situation was.” Today, she finds joy in sharing her story to give hope and support to other cancer patients. Thanks to financial support from the Government of Lesotho, she sought treatment in South Africa. By 2018, Chakawas declared cancer-free.
For the 19-year-old childhood cancer survivor Joalane Tsupane, her cancer journey began at the tender age of one year when she was diagnosed with leukemia. As a young girl, she experienced constant body pain, hair loss, bleeding, fever, and loss of appetite. Supported by the Government of Lesotho, Tsupaneembarked on a long road to recovery and was declared cancer-free in 2019.

Tsupane points out a significant challenge: the knowledge gap about childhood cancer in the community. “There is a need to increase awareness about childhood cancer. Information should be made available for all, especially our parents,” she emphasizes.

Motsamai Kekeletso, a dedicated caregiver with Friends with Starlight Oasis of Hope Foundation, echoes this sentiment. Her organization provides palliative care to cancer patients. “I started helping people suffering from chronic diseases because I realized there was no home for the elderly in our community,” she explains. “I love taking care of cancer patients and feel fulfilled providing support in their most vulnerable state.”

In 2023, the Senkatana Oncology Clinic in Maseru District reported approximately 1,888 new cancer cases in Lesotho, with around 500 of them being cervical cancer cases. Addressing this growing concern, the Government of Lesotho, under the Ministry of Health, has commenced construction of the nation’s first Cancer Care facility. This new center will offer radiotherapy services, reducing patients’ need to seek treatment abroad.

During the 2025 World Cancer Day commemoration, Minister of Health Hon Selibe Mochoboroane announced, “The government of Lesotho is making strides in establishing a dedicated cancer treatment center to address these challenges. We are training medical professionals and support staff from within and outside Lesotho. With guidance from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the center aims to be a state-of-the-art facility.”

Hon Mochoboroane also acknowledged the vital contributions of development partners, highlighting the successful administration of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to about 93% of girls aged 9 to 14 in 2024. He added, “Development Partners are actively providing educational resources, equipment, and expert assistance to support the ministry’s efforts. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are crucial in reaching underserved communities, offering education and support services, including palliative care, to families in need.”
Dr. Innocent Nuwagira, World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative to Lesotho, stressed the importance of integrating cancer prevention, screening, treatment, and palliative care into broader health services to close the existing healthcare gaps.

He noted, “Between 30% – 50% of cancer deaths could be prevented by modifying or avoiding key risk factors like tobacco use, alcohol, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, chronic infections, and air pollution. While prevention is the most cost-effective long-term strategy, early detection and management are key to reducing cancer deaths.”

Manyathela Kheleli, Brand Marketing Manager, Communications and Sponsorships of Standard Lesotho Bank, announced that the bank had contributed 1.9 million maloti to support the construction of the cancer facility. He also called on other corporate entities to join in and make the project a reality.

With the new cancer facility, Lesotho’s cancer patients will no longer need to travel to South Africa or elsewhere for treatment and care, marking a significant step forward in the country’s healthcare journey.

Bridging the Cancer prevention, diagnosis and care gaps in Lesotho