As Rwanda concludes the month of October, the country has once again rallied behind the fight against breast cancer through awareness walks, fundraising events, and community-based education. At the center of these efforts stands the annual Ulinzi Walk, organized by Breast Cancer Initiative East Africa (BCIEA) since 2017. The event has grown into a national symbol of unity, drawing hundreds of participants who march through Kigali while receiving access to free screening services for breast cancer and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Complementing these community-driven efforts, a number of organizations amplified their campaigns throughout October. Vivo Energy Rwanda launched its Fuel Her Fight initiative as part of the global “Pink October” movement, highlighting early detection and support for those affected. The Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) also led a nationwide awareness walk from the BK Arena to Kigali Heights under the theme “Early detection saves lives”, stressing the importance of screening and knowledge of early signs.
According to RBC, Rwanda records approximately 650 new breast cancer cases each year, including diagnoses among men, with around 600 annual deaths attributed to the disease. Data further indicates that breast cancer is Rwanda’s second most common cancer among women, after cervical cancer. In 2022 alone, 799 new cases were recorded among women.
These campaigns share a common objective: reduce stigma, encourage regular self-examination, improve early diagnosis, and expand access to care, particularly in districts such as Nyagatare, Gicumbi, Kicukiro, and Nyanza,where gaps in screening remain.
Despite the momentum, awareness challenges persist. A survey conducted among 50 students at Mount Kigali University revealed that 82% were unaware that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and 75% were unsure whether breast cancer affects men. Although significantly rarer, studies by the American Cancer Society show that an estimated 2,800 men are diagnosed annually, compared to 42,170 women. Misconceptions that breast cancer is a “women’s disease” can delay diagnosis and complicate prognosis.
With 2025 nearing its end, health advocates stress that awareness should extend beyond a single month. Continued education, early detection and open discussion remain essential—not only for personal well-being, but for the protection of families, communities and the nation as a whole.
