Seme MP James Nyikal with Internal Security Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo during the launch of "Shadow in Perpetuity: The Hard Journey with Cancer", a book authored by renowned oncologist and Professor of Medicine Nicholas Anthony Othieno-Abinya on June 13,2026/X
Kenyans have been urged to take greater responsibility for their health by embracing early disease screening, preventive healthcare and adherence to treatment as the country continues its push towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Internal Security Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo made the call Saturday during the launch of the third edition of "Shadow in Perpetuity: The Hard Journey with Cancer", a book authored by renowned oncologist and Professor of Medicine Nicholas Anthony Othieno-Abinya at Nairobi Hospital.
The publication chronicles Prof Abinya’s decades-long journey in cancer care, drawing from clinical experience and patient encounters to debunk myths, correct misconceptions and provide accurate information on cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.
Speaking during the event, Omollo described knowledge as a critical weapon in the fight against cancer and praised the veteran physician for using his expertise to educate the public.
“Knowledge is one of the most powerful medicines in the fight against cancer and the greatest gift an expert can share with us is wisdom that continues to heal and empower generations,” Omollo said.
The PS said his association with Prof Abinya dates back to his early career as a statistician when they worked together on cancer research projects, including the Breast Cancer Care Registry at Kenyatta National Hospital.
Prof Nicholas Anthony Othieno-Abinya shakes hands with Internal Security Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo during the launch of the book on June 13, 2026/XAccording to Omollo, one of the key findings from their research was the significant difference in outcomes between patients who sought treatment early and those who presented with advanced disease.
“One lesson stood out clearly: patients who presented early consistently had better outcomes than those who sought care after the disease had progressed,” he said.
“This reinforced a simple but profound truth: citizens are not passive recipients of healthcare; they are active participants in determining their own health outcomes.”
Omollo linked the message of the book to the government’s healthcare agenda, noting that Universal Health Coverage remains a key pillar of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
He said the government has made significant progress through the Social Health Authority (SHA), which has expanded access to healthcare services across the country.
“To date, 31.39 million Kenyans have registered under SHA, 11,034 health facilities have been contracted across the country, and Sh147.37 billion has been paid out in claims to support healthcare access since October 2024,” he said.
The PS, however, emphasised that government efforts alone would not be enough to achieve universal healthcare.
“Registering for SHA, seeking preventive care, attending routine screenings, adhering to treatment and making informed health decisions are responsibilities that directly influence individual and national health outcomes,” Omollo said.
Prof Nicholas Anthony Othieno-Abinya (left) with Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o and a clergy during the launch of the book on June 13, 2026/XDrawing from Prof Abinya’s book, Omollo noted that treatment outcomes are often determined long before a patient reaches a hospital.
“Beyond medicine and technology, successful treatment often depends on informed decision-making by patients and their families. The book reminds us that healthcare is ultimately a partnership between the citizen and the healthcare system,” he said.
He also warned against the growing threat of misinformation, saying citizens must rely on credible medical advice and evidence-based information when making health decisions.
“Health decisions should be guided by evidence, professional expertise and accurate information,” he said.
Omollo praised Prof Abinya for his lifelong contribution to medicine, research and mentorship, saying his influence extends beyond hospitals and classrooms.
“Through his books, he extends that service beyond the clinic and classroom, challenging us to consider the broader social, behavioural and policy factors that influence health outcomes,” he said.
A section of guests who attended the launch of the book on June 13, 2026/X
He expressed confidence that the publication would promote public awareness, stimulate policy discussions and encourage more Kenyans to become active participants in their healthcare journeys.
“May this book stimulate meaningful conversations, inform policy, strengthen citizen engagement in healthcare and contribute to better health outcomes for our nation,” Omollo said.
Internal Security Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo during the launch of the Shadow in Perpetuity 3rd edition of Prof. Nicholas Abinya on June 13, 2026/MINA
