The World Health Organization (WHO) actively participated in the first International Cancer Genomics Conference, held under the theme “Harnessing Functional Genomics in Cancer Research: Opportunities for Diagnosis and Treatment.” The conference took place from 24–26 September 2025 at the Hilton Hotel in Windhoek, Namibia, hosted by the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) in collaboration with the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) and endorsed by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).

At the three-day conference, WHO delivered a presentation on the epidemiology of cancer, providing a global, regional, and national overview. The presentation also highlighted the burden of the disease at patient and community level such as cost of living with cancer, underscoring the financial, emotional and health system challenges faced by patients, and their families, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Subsequently during the conference, WHO contributed to a high-level panel discussion on the way forward advancing cancer genomics in Africa focusing on data security, policy, funding and equitable health systems. WHO emphasised on the importance of domestic resource mobilization to ensure sustainability, respectful and intentional collaboration and data sharing agreement to avoid silo operations, leveraging on existing scientific work to advance cancer research, and the importance of translating research finding into clinical practice. During the discussion, the conference was also informed of relevant documents by WHO which stipulates the work undertaken by the organization and partners.

In his remarks, Mr. Penda Ithindi, Executive Director in the Ministry of Health and Social Services, emphasized the urgency of investing in local research and innovation. “Without investment in research tailored to our realities, we risk applying solutions that are ineffective or unsustainable,” he said. He noted that Namibia records approximately 4,000 new cancer cases annually, with a concerning 12% year-on-year increase. Prostate cancer remains the most common among men, while breast and cervical cancers lead among women, conditions often worsened by late diagnosis and limited access to appropriate treatment.

To confirm dedication from the institution, Professor Erold Naomab, Vice-Chancellor of NUST, highlighted the university’s commitment to advancing biomedical innovation. “Together, we are laying the foundations for a genomic revolution in cancer research, diagnosis, and treatments. This conference represents a critical milestone for Namibia on the path to enhancing health outcomes for our people,” he stated. Professor Naomab noted that NUST has made strategic investments in genomics, bioinformatics and molecular biology, establishing the foundation for precision medicine, an approach that aims to provide patients with more personalized and effective treatment options.

The conference offered a vital platform for cross-sectoral engagement, bringing together researchers, clinicians, public health experts, biotech professionals, policymakers, and students to explore how functional genomics can drive innovation in cancer diagnosis and treatment. The event also spotlighted the stark reality that Africa remains underrepresented in global genomic data, accounting for 1.1% in 2021, down from 3% in 2019.

The International Cancer Genomics Conference highlighted the rising cancer burden globally including Namibia. It underscored the urgent need for investment in local research, innovation, data systems, and health system strengthening. WHO’s active participation reaffirmed commitment to supporting Namibia in harnessing genomics for equitable cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Moving forward, establishing sustainable partnerships and prioritizing data-driven approaches will be critical to improving cancer outcomes and advancing precision medicine in Namibia and across Africa.