MMUST Launches Community-Based Multisectoral Toolkit to Strengthen Early Detection of Childhood Leukemia and Lymphoma in Western Kenya
In an effort to strengthen early detection, referral, diagnosis and care of children with leukemia and lymphoma in Western Kenya, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) has officially launched the validated Community-Based Integrated Multi-sectoral Toolkit. The launch marked a key milestone in translating research into practice and will facilitate the toolkit’s implementation at both community and health-system levels. Held on Wednesday, 1st July, 2026, the launch was officiated by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Christopher Ngacho, and brought together health experts, County officials, community representatives and development partners committed to improving childhood cancer outcomes. The toolkit was developed through the research project, titled ‘Integration of Community Health Workers Through a Multisectoral Approach in Early Detection, Referral, Diagnosis and Care of Leukemia and Lymphoma Cancers Among Children in Western Kenya’. The Project is led by the Principal Investigator, Dr. Rose Shikuri, from the Department of Nutritional Sciences, and is funded by the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K).
Participants share a group photo after the launch of the toolkit.
Speaking during the event, Prof. Christopher Ngacho congratulated Dr. Shikuri and her research team for developing the Toolkit. He noted that it will empower communities to recognize the early warning signs of childhood leukemia and lymphoma, leading to timely referral, diagnosis and treatment. “With this training, I hope we will create awareness within our communities so that cases of leukemia and lymphoma can be identified early and children receive timely treatment,” he said.
The Representative of the Chief Executive Officer of the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K), Dr. Joan Simali speaks during the launch of the validated Community-Based Integrated Multi-sectoral Toolkit.
Representing the Chief Executive Officer of the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K), Dr. Joan Simali underscored that cancer remains a major public health challenge requiring coordinated efforts from researchers, healthcare providers, government and communities to address. She revealed that MMUST was among only five (5) institutions selected for funding from more than 300 applicants. Dr. Simali was optimistic that this project will deliver measurable impact in improving childhood cancer detection and care by the end of its implementation period.
The Project’s Principal Investigator, Dr. Rose Shikuri addressing the participants.
In her remarks, Dr. Shikuri noted that the launch of the toolkit is a significant achievement in the fight against childhood leukemia and lymphoma. She pointed out that successful implementation of the toolkit will depend on close collaboration among researchers, healthcare workers, county governments, and community members.
Dr. Rose Muhanda, the Chief Officer for Public Health in Kakamega County keenly following the discussions during the event.
Dr. Rose Muhanda, the Chief Officer for Public Health in Kakamega County, commended the partnership between MMUST and the County Government of Kakamega in developing the toolkit. She reaffirmed the County Government’s commitment to supporting its implementation, saying that the initiative will strengthen early detection of childhood cancers and improve health outcomes across the region.
A section of the participants during the event.
Among those present were the Project’s Co-PI, Dr. Jane Situma; representing the Director of Public Health Services, Mr. Moses Sego; representing the County Director of Medical Services, Mr. Moses Litunya. MMUST team included the C.O.D, Reproductive Health, Midwifery and Child Health Nursing, Dr. Roselyne Abwalaba; C.O.D, Community Health and Extension, Dr. Grace Litali; Mr. Noah Wamukoya from the School of Medicine; Dr. Gregory Sakwa and a PhD student, Ms. Rael Mwando.
A section of stakeholders share a moment.
Certainly, the launch of the Community-Based Integrated Multisectoral Toolkit represents a major step towards strengthening community-led responses to childhood leukemia and lymphoma in Western Kenya. Through research, innovation, and strategic partnerships, MMUST continues to develop evidence-based solutions that enhance healthcare delivery, promote early diagnosis, and improve survival outcomes for children affected by cancer.
By Simiyu N. Frida
Photos by Griffin Andy
