By Joseph Kiggundu
Kampala, Uganda — The Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) and the Palliative Care Association of Uganda (PCAU) have announced the 5th Uganda Conference on Cancer and Palliative Care, scheduled to take place from 10th to 12th September 2025 at Speke Resort Munyonyo, Kampala.
Kampala, Uganda — The Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) and the Palliative Care Association of Uganda (PCAU) have announced the 5th Uganda Conference on Cancer and Palliative Care, scheduled to take place from 10th to 12th September 2025 at Speke Resort Munyonyo, Kampala.
Dr. Jackson Orem, Executive Director, UCI said this biennial event has grown to become the largest and most influential platform for cancer and palliative care dialogue in the East African region.
Held under the theme “Embracing Uniqueness and Empowering Communities,” the 2025 conference aims to bring together a diverse range of stakeholders, including clinicians, researchers, policymakers, cancer survivors, caregivers, and advocates. Delegates from across the East African Community and beyond are expected to attend.
He also added that, the conference will feature a rich program of plenary sessions, pre-conference events, workshops, oral and poster presentations, exhibitions, and a gala dinner. It is expected to attract over 500 delegates, with at least 100 oral presentations, 50 posters, and 30 exhibitions, showcasing cutting-edge research and innovations in cancer and palliative care.
UCI and PCAU have confirmed the participation of H.E Maj. (Rtd) Hon. Jessica Alupo, the Vice President of Uganda, as the expected Chief Guest, underlining the government’s commitment to improving cancer and palliative care services in the country.
Organizers say the theme reflects the urgent need to deliver inclusive, patient-centered care that respects Uganda’s socio-economic, cultural, and geographical diversity—including refugees and marginalized communities. The conference also arrives at a time of uncertainty following global funding freezes, with organizers aiming to spark community-led solutions for sustainable health care delivery.
Workshops will cover a wide range of timely topics, including Digital Health and AI, Access to Essential Medicines, Compassionate Leadership, Communicable and Non-Communicable Diseases, and Global-North/Sub-Saharan Partnerships.
Uganda continues to face a growing cancer burden, with an 80% cancer-related mortality rate at UCI, and only 11% of palliative care needs currently met, according to recent studies. Despite these challenges, Uganda is recognized for its growing palliative care capacity and integration of services into the national healthcare system.
The conference offers a unique opportunity to share best practices, standardize care, promote research collaboration, and advocate for equitable access to quality care. It also aligns with Uganda’s National Cancer Control Plan (2021–2026), which lists palliative care as one of its four key pillars.
Organizers are calling for partners, sponsors, and exhibitors to support the event, with multiple sponsorship packages available, including opportunities for brand visibility, speaking slots, and exhibition space.