CCI Africa Conference 2026: Together for Children with Cancer
From 13 to 17 April, Lagos became a key meeting point for the global childhood cancer community as it hosted the CCI Africa Annual Conference 2026, held alongside the SIOP Africa 2026 Congress.
The event brought together government representatives, civil society organisations, medical institutions, researchers, survivors, families, and strategic partners with one shared goal: to improve quality of care, quality of life, and childhood cancer outcomes across Africa.
One of the most meaningful moments of the conference was the survivors’ workshop held during CCI Day, centred around one essential question: What do survivors really need? The session was planned and led by local survivors, who shared their lived experiences and perspectives on the challenges survivors face after treatment, the barriers that exist across African countries, and the importance of strengthening survivor-led advocacy.
Members of SurNet also took part in the session, introducing the global survivors’ network of Childhood Cancer International and helping strengthen connections across the region.
Throughout the conference, participants also explored key priorities including early diagnosis, equitable access to specialised treatment, sustainable fundraising, strategic communications, and multisector collaboration. The message shared across the week was clear: where a child lives should not determine whether they live.
Africa continues to face important challenges in childhood cancer care, including late diagnosis, limited access to specialised services, and unequal treatment outcomes. Yet the conference also highlighted real progress: stronger systems, growing organisations, and rising voices leading change across the continent.
The conference closed with a shared conviction among participants: collaboration saves lives. Only by working together — across disciplines, sectors, and borders — can we continue building a better future for children with cancer and their families.
Thanks to strong local leadership and the support of organisations such as The Dorcas Cancer Foundation, Lagos hosted a week defined by learning, hope, and collective action.
Together, we can save more children’s lives.