A $100 million oncology centre project has kicked off in Kwaso near Ejisu in the Ashanti Region, with ceremonial sod-cutting.

The 52-acre facility will be known as Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Comprehensive Cancer Center of Excellence (CCCoE), a tribute to the 16th King of Asante Kingdom.

The CCCoE is expected to revolutionize cancer care in Ghana, offering state-of-the-art facilities for prevention, awareness, diagnosis, screening, treatment, and rehabilitation.

Funded by Breast Care International (BCI), Peace and Love Hospitals, Global Health Catalyst, and the University of Pennsylvania (USA), this flagship project will emerge as one of Ghana's largest and most advanced cancer centres, transforming the landscape of oncology care.

The partnered Universities include Johns Hopkins, Harvard, University of Pennsylvania, University of Pittsburgh, UC Davis, Columbia University, University of Washington (Seattle) and Memorial Kettling Sloan University and Nanocan Therapeutics.

President Biden’s Cancer Moonshot 2/0 of the White House, provided the seed money for the construction of the centre.

Phase one of the Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Excellence project, valued at $10 million, will encompass advanced Clinical Services (including a state-of-the-art Radiotherapy suite), a specialized Research Wing, an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Hub, an education and training centre, and community Outreach programs.

According to the President of Breast Care International (BCI), Dr. Beatrice Wiafe-Addai, the successful completion of the oncology project will have far-reaching benefits, extending beyond Ghana and West Africa to contribute significantly to the advancement of cancer care across the African continent.

“The Center will also be the hub for medical tourism and stop the movement of cancer patients from Africa to other continents for treatments,” she added.

Dr. Wiafe-Addai stressed that the cutting-edge technologies at the facility will provide personalized, top-notch care to meet the unique needs of each patient.

Dr. Wiafe-Addai also said the construction of the facility is timely and demand-driven and therefore expected to revolutionize cancer care in the country and the West African Sub-region.

Founder and Director of Global Health Catalyst, Prof. Will Ngwa, urged Ghanaians to rally behind the cancer facility, after investing $1 million in seed funding.

“I want everyone to partner with local people to make this cancer centre a reality,” he said.

Otumfuo Hiahene, Nana Prof. Oheneba Boachie-Adjei Woahene II, commended the management of BCI for bringing the cancer project to Ghana, specifically the Ashanti region.

As the Chairperson of the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Foundation, he's committed to supporting the initiative through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with $100,000 over five years until the project's completion.

He emphasized that establishing a state-of-the-art cancer centre in Ghana will not only enhance cancer care but also address existing challenges and showcase the country's dedication to healthcare.

The state-of-the-art facility will employ over 250 staff members, and feature 48+ rooms and offices, including a multidisciplinary Team room, decision-making room, chemotherapy suite, brachytherapy suite (with prep and control rooms), CT scan simulators and control rooms, admission wards and rooms, laboratories, chemotherapy preparatory rooms, minor procedure rooms, kitchens and examination rooms.

Additional Amenities are X-RAY machines, elevators for patients and staff, medical stores, a pharmacy, an open terrace, simulation rooms/centres, surgical theatres and a recovery ward.

Dr. Wiafe-Addai urged Ghanaians to prioritize early detection and treatment, saying, no one should let cancer claim their life prematurely –but seek medical attention at the first sign of symptoms.