Ministry of Health has signed a memorandum of understanding with US Trade and Development Agency to support radiotherapy training workshops for cancer treatment professionals at the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI).
The training is in partnership with Varian, a California-based cancer care company that provides training, software and high-tech equipment including linear accelerators to plan and deliver cancer treatments.
Permanent secretary for ministry of health Dr. Diana Atwine said the training will expand the capacity of UCI personnel to perform advanced radiotherapy treatment utilizing Varian’s technologies. Implementation of the modern radiotherapy technologies will increase access to potentially life-saving techniques for cancer treatment in Uganda.
“USTDA is pleased to support high quality cancer treatment in Uganda,” said USTDA’s Director, Congressional and Public Affairs, Thomas R. Hardy. “Through Varian’s expertise and cutting-edge equipment, medical professionals in Uganda will have the ability to better treat cancer.”
“We are excited about this partnership,” said Permanent Secretary Dr. Diane Atwine. “With training and capacity building, the future of oncology treatment in Uganda is very bright.”
“We are honored to support the Government of Uganda in its goal to expand access to advanced radiotherapy for cancer patients across the country,” said Dow Wilson, president and chief executive officer of Varian.
“Together with our partners at leading oncology institutes in the U.S. and Africa, we look forward to developing a robust training and education program for Ugandan clinicians that will support the long-term sustainability and human capacity development in the country.”
In addition to improving the quality of cancer treatment in Uganda, this grant creates market access for U.S. companies and may lead to new export opportunities.
Varian’s training will last for a five-month period, offering both classroom and lab-based training in radiotherapy best practices developed by South African, U.S. companies and academic institutions.
Note: In the picture, minister for health Jane Ruth Acheng, Museveni, PS for ministry of health Diana Atwine, Director, Congressional and Public Affairs, Thomas R. Hardy, US Ambassador Deborah R. Malac and Dow Wilson, president and chief executive officer of Varian.