Cancer control advocates have defended Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga after she faced online criticism for publicly disclosing that she has lived with cancer for 12 years.
The Kenyan Network of Cancer Organisations (KENCO) said Wanga should be supported rather than criticised for speaking openly about a deeply personal experience.
“Cancer is not merely a medical diagnosis; it affects individuals, families, livelihoods and communities, often bringing significant emotional, social and financial challenges”, KENCO said.
“When leaders, survivors and people affected by cancer choose to share their experiences, they help break the silence, challenge stigma and give hope to countless others who may be walking a similar journey quietly,” the organisation added.
The organisation was responding to a social media backlash after Wanga spoke about her cancer experience during the commissioning of the Phoebe Asiyo Oncology Centre at the Homa Bay County Teaching and Referral Hospital on August 27.
Some Kenyans questioned why she had chosen to reveal her illness at an event involving a major county health project, while others accused her of using the diagnosis to gain political sympathy.
The criticism included demands for evidence of her treatment and claims that her disclosure was politically motivated.
However, KENCO said the focus should instead be on what Wanga’s experience means for Kenyans living with cancer.
Additionally, the organisation said Wanga’s experience should strengthen efforts to make cancer care available to ordinary Kenyans.
