Lesotho Reaffirms Commitment to Cancer Control at Rays of Hope 2025 Forum in Addis Ababa

Under the leadership of the Minister of Health, Mr. Selibe Mochoboroane, Lesotho has taken an active role in the Rays of Hope 2025 Forum, held in Addis Ababa from June 30 to July 1. The forum, held under the theme “Advancing Cancer Control in Africa: Delivering on Commitments, Sustaining Impact,” brought together health leaders, policymakers, and global partners to accelerate cancer control efforts across the continent.

During his address, Minister Mochoboroane reaffirmed Lesotho’s strong national commitment to defeating cancer, with a special focus on cervical cancer—a disease that remains one of the leading health threats facing Basotho women. He highlighted the significant progress Lesotho has made in advancing cancer prevention and treatment, while also outlining future priorities.

Key among the Minister’s announcements was Lesotho’s ongoing expansion of cervical cancer screening services and the national rollout of HPV vaccination for young girls. These interventions form part of the country’s broader National Cancer Control Strategy, which aims to reduce cancer-related mortality and improve access to timely diagnosis and treatment.

Minister Mochoboroane emphasized Lesotho’s determination to strengthen its healthcare infrastructure by exploring partnerships to establish local diagnostic and radiotherapy services. He also pointed to regional collaboration as a pathway for training healthcare workers and improving technical expertise in cancer care.

In his speech, the Minister stressed the importance of equity and accessibility, ensuring that all Basotho, regardless of location or economic status, can benefit from improved cancer prevention and treatment services.

Lesotho’s participation at the Rays of Hope 2025 Forum reflects the country’s growing leadership in health sector reforms and its dedication to global health goals, especially in the fight against preventable and treatable diseases like cancer.