The National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K) has announced plan to conduct a nationwide inspection of cancer management centres and hospitals across the country .
In a letter dated October 16, 2026, and addressed to Chief Executive Officers, Medical Superintendents and Directors of registered cancer centres, NCI-K Chief Executive Officer Dr. Elias Melly said the inspection will assess quality of care and adherence to national guidelines.
Why Kenyan cancer centres will be inspected a fresh
“Take notice that the Institute shall conduct a nationwide inspection of previously inspected cancer management centres/hospitals from 21st October 2026, to assess the quality of cancer care and adherence to the National Guidelines for Establishment of Cancer Management centres, using the NCI-K Inspection Checklist,” the letter states.
The Institute has also issued a public notice reiterating the planned inspection, stating that the exercise will be conducted using the NCI-K checklist.
Dr. Melly said the exercise is in line with the Institute’s mandate under the Cancer Prevention and Control Act, Cap. 246B, to encourage establishment of cancer treatment institutions and co-ordinate cancer services in Kenya.
He added that the inspection is intended “to guarantee quality cancer care across all the cancer management institutions in the country.”
According to the notice, each facility will be notified of its inspection date and time and has been requested to avail its regulatory documents, protocols and facility records.
The Institute has also asked facilities to ensure the officer-in-charge and Hospital Management Team are present throughout the inspection.
How many cancer centres are in Kenya?
Kenya’s cancer treatment capacity remains limited.
The Ministry of Health’s National Cancer Control Strategy 2023-2027 indicates that as of 2023, the country had 12 comprehensive cancer treatment centres and 58 oncologists, while only six fully operational public cancer centres are currently serving thousands of patients daily.
NCI-K has previously reported that of the 105 health facilities that applied to be recognised as cancer centres in 2022, 67 were approved.
