Maseno University Hosts International Breast and Sarcoma Surgical Camp
The week-long camp, a collaboration between Maseno University, Alexandria University (Egypt) and the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH), aims to strengthen surgical skills among local doctors and improve access to specialized cancer care in the region.
The visiting delegation, led by Professor Mahmoud from Alexandria University and joined by Dr. Andrea Lisa from Milan, Italy, was warmly received by the Associate Dean of Clinical Services, Dr. Jacktone Omoto, noting that such collaborations underscore Maseno’s growing leadership in medical training, research and service delivery.“The world of medicine thrives on collaboration,” said Dr. Omoto. “When knowledge travels across borders, patients everywhere benefit.”
For Dr. Marwa, a lecturer and surgeon at Maseno University, the surgical camp carries a special personal meaning. Several years ago, he trained at Alexandria University under Professor Mahmoud, where he gained advanced skills in Breast and Sarcoma Surgery. His mentor’s visit to Maseno, now accompanied by colleagues from Milan, was both a re-union and a professional milestone.“When I first went to Egypt, I had the passion but not the skill,” said Dr. Marwa. “Professor Mahmoud not only trained me but inspired me to bring this knowledge home. Seeing him here today, guiding our students, is incredibly fulfilling.”
During the camp’s opening lecture, Dr. Andrea Lisa delivered an engaging session on modern approaches to Breast Surgery, from diagnosis to reconstruction. Students listened intently, eager to absorb every detail. For many, it was their first exposure to the complexity and artistry of Surgical Oncology.
Prof. Mahmoud urged the students to take their training seriously and to view surgery as both a science and an art. “Surgery is not just about technique,” he told them. “It is about compassion, precision and the courage to act when life depends on your skill.”
In Kenya, cancer remains one of the leading causes of illness and death, with breast cancer accounting for about 16% of all cancer cases nationwide. According to the Kenya National Cancer Control Program, over 6,000 new breast cancer cases are reported each year and many patients face delayed diagnosis or lack access to specialized treatment. With only a limited number of surgeons trained in breast and sarcoma procedures, initiatives like this camp play a critical role in closing that gap.“We are not just teaching surgical techniques,” said Dr. Lisa. “We are building capacity and giving young doctors the tools to transform healthcare in their own communities.”
At JOOTRH, patients have already begun arriving for screening and consultation, hopeful that this initiative will bring them relief. For the students and faculty observing the surgeries, it is an invaluable opportunity to witness the blend of skill, teamwork, and compassion that defines great medicine.
As the camp continues, Maseno University reaffirms its commitment to fostering international partnerships that promote learning, innovation, and service. The collaboration with Alexandria University, JOOTRH, and the visiting team from Italy stands as a testament to what can be achieved when institutions unite around a shared goal like saving lives through knowledge and care.
