Religious leaders to convene on maternal mortality and cervical cancer in Africa
Health & Science
By
Sharon Wanga
| Apr 30, 2025
Religious and health leaders have united to intensify efforts against maternal mortality and cervical cancer in Africa.
At an event organized by the Africa Health and Economic Transformation Initiative (AHETI) in Nairobi, these leaders will collaboratively outline a path forward.
“As shepherds of our communities, we must not only preach about dignity and life—we must protect it. This moment requires more than prayer; it requires action,” stated Rev. Philip Anyolo, the Archbishop of Nairobi.
The Faith in Action Health Conference builds upon the momentum of the 2024 Nairobi convening on faith and science, transitioning from dialogue to concrete, community-based interventions.
Leaders will discuss strategies to increase HPV vaccination rates, enhance maternal health services, and promote early cervical cancer screening, especially in underserved communities where cultural and religious factors significantly impact health-seeking behavior.
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Fr. Charles Chilufya, Executive Director of AHETI, called on faith leaders to take transformative roles in public health.
“Religious leaders have the trust of millions. That trust must now be leveraged to save lives. We are shifting from pulpits to public health campaigns,” said Chilufya.
Data indicates a maternal mortality rate of 342 deaths per 100,000 live births, while cervical cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Kenyan women, claiming over 3,500 lives annually.
Despite the availability of the HPV vaccine, national uptake is below 30 per cent, hindered by misinformation, stigma, and limited access.
With more than 90 per cent of Africa’s population identifying with a faith tradition (Pew Research Center, 2022), faith leaders are uniquely positioned to influence community attitudes and promote health education and early intervention.
“We have seen the harm that myths and stigma can cause. Faith leaders must be part of the solution—championing awareness, acceptance, and access,” said Dr. Hussein Iman of the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM).
During the conference, the leaders aim to forge strong partnerships to achieve universal health coverage (UHC).