By: Kanto Kai Okanta
The
Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael
Mariano Grossi, has officially presided over the launch of a Linear Accelerator
(LINAC) machine at the Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital in Mombasa,
marking a significant advancement in Kenya’s cancer treatment and radiotherapy
capacity.
The
launch event brought together senior national and international officials,
including the Cabinet Secretary for Health Aden Duale, Principal Secretary for
Health Dr Ouma Oluga, Principal Secretary for Research and Innovation Prof.
Shaukat Abdulrazak, the Governor of Mombasa County, representatives from the
Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority (KNRA), the Cancer Research Center, and the
Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA).
The
newly commissioned LINAC machine is expected to enhance access to advanced
radiotherapy services for cancer patients in the Coast region and surrounding
areas. It will reduce the need for long-distance travel to receive treatment
while improving the quality and timeliness of oncology care through modern
precision technology.
The
IAEA Director General’s presence at the ceremony underscored the strengthening
partnership between Kenya and the agency in promoting the peaceful application
of nuclear science and technology, particularly in healthcare, research, and
national development.
Officials
noted that the investment aligns with broader efforts to expand specialized
medical infrastructure and improve health outcomes through technology-driven
solutions.
The
Nuclear Power and Energy Agency reaffirmed its commitment to supporting
initiatives that leverage nuclear technology to strengthen healthcare systems,
build institutional capacity, and advance sustainable development objectives.
