Every Journey Matters: Kenya Marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month with Renewed Call for Early Screening

October 2025 marks another powerful chapter in the global fight against breast cancer and Kenya is once again standing in solidarity with millions around the world to raise awareness, encourage early detection and promote access to quality care.

This year’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign, themed “Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters,” carries a deeply personal reminder –  that behind every screening, diagnosis and recovery lies a story of courage, love and resilience.

Reproductive Health Nurse Alice Gachagua, who works with the Naledi Initiative, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering vulnerable communities through healthcare support, says early screening remains the cornerstone of saving lives.
“In its early stages, breast cancer may not present any symptoms. Regular screening ensures cases are detected before the disease progresses – and that makes all the difference,” she told Citizen Digital.

Gachagua explains that breast cancer awareness should not only target women but men as well, noting that while rare, male breast cancer does occur.
“Men should also conduct routine self-examinations. A simple monthly check  by standing before a mirror and observing or feeling for unusual lumps or changes can help with early detection,” she advises.

The Naledi Initiative, where Gachagua serves, continues to lead grassroots campaigns focused on breaking stigma, educating communities and making cancer screening more accessible, particularly in underserved areas. The organization emphasizes that awareness alone is not enough; it must translate into regular medical checkups and behavioral change.

As the pink ribbons go up across Kenya this month, healthcare workers and advocates are urging Kenyans to not only spread awareness but to take action – schedule screenings, support survivors and talk openly about cancer without fear.

Because, as this year’s theme reminds the world, every story is unique  and every journey truly matters.