Government has launched the construction of a K422 million Cancer Diseases Hospital at Livingstone University Teaching Hospital, a move aimed at improving access to cancer treatment services in Southern Province and surrounding areas.

Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony in Livingstone today, the Minister of Health Dr. Alex Katakwe said the project is expected to be completed within 12 months and will have a bed capacity of 70.

Dr Katakwe said the facility will be equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment to enhance cancer diagnosis and treatment.

He described cancer as one of the most pressing health challenges facing the country, noting that Zambia records about 9,700 cancer-related deaths annually.

The Minister added that nearly two-thirds of people diagnosed with cancer lose their lives, highlighting the urgent need for improved treatment facilities and early detection services.

He said the construction of the hospital in Livingstone will help reduce the hardships patients currently face when being referred to Lusaka for specialised cancer treatment.

Dr Katakwe further revealed that Zambia records nine new cases of cervical cancer every day, describing the situation as alarming.

He expressed concern that many patients seek medical attention when the disease has already advanced, making treatment more difficult.

The Minister said the new hospital demonstrates the Government’s commitment to strengthening the health sector and bringing specialised services closer to the people.

Once completed, the Cancer Diseases Hospital is expected to serve patients from across Southern Province and other neighbouring regions.

And Livingstone University Teaching Hospital Senior Medical Superintendent, Kaseya Chiyenu said the coming of the hospital in Livingstone will save colossal sums of money that have gone towards the fight against the disease.

Dr Chiyenu said a lot of money was being spent on referrals from Livingstone to Lusaka to have patients attend to.

And Tourism Minister who is also Livingstone Area Member of Parliament Rodney Sikumba said the hospital could not have come at a better time than this when high cases of Cancer are being recorded.

Mr Sikumba said Livingstone being a tourist capital, will also allow tourists with cancer complications to get the treatment they deserve.