Namibia records 4 000 new cancer cases a year

The Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), in partnership with the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, hosted the country’s first Cancer Genomics Conference in Windhoek last week.The three-day event explored how genomics can improve cancer diagnosis and treatment, as Namibia faces about 4 000 new cases every year – a figure rising by 12% annually.Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of the health ministry, Penda Ithindi, said the scale of the challenge makes innovation essential. “Cancer is a growing public health issue in Namibia, with around 4 000 new cases each year and an alarming annual rise of about 12%,” he noted. Highlighting the role of genomics, he added: “The promise of precision medicine lies in its ability to tailor cancer treatment to the genetic profile of each patient’s tumour, improving outcomes, reducing side effects and enabling earlier diagnosis and prevention.”NUST Vice-Chancellor, Professor Erold Naomab, emphasised the university’s leadership in research and training. “We at NUST are humbled to serve as the main co-sponsors and hosts of this groundbreaking conference. Together, we are laying the foundations for a genomic revolution in cancer research, diagnosis and treatment,” he said.He also stressed the importance of building local expertise: “Equally important is our role in education and training, designed to equip Namibia 's future scientists, clinicians and health professionals with the skills needed for the rapidly evolving landscape of cancer care.”The programme featured keynote lectures, scientific sessions and workshops that connected Namibian experts with international researchers, clinicians and policymakers.Ithindi urged delegates to ensure the event delivered long-term results: “What comes after this conference? Will there be another Cancer Genomics Conference next year? What deliverables will we take from here? Will we gather again to measure our progress? These are the pertinent questions I hope this conference will begin to answer.”Endorsed by the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the African Society for Laboratory Medicine, the event placed Namibia at the forefront of cancer genomics and precision medicine in Africa, with its outcomes expected to influence both policy and patient care across the continent.

Namibia records 4 000 new cancer cases a year

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Namibian Sun 2026-03-13

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Namibia records 4 000 new cancer cases a year

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Namibian Sun 2026-03-13

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