National Cancer Center to lead prostate cancer diagnosis project in Ivory Coast

The National Cancer Center of South Korea has been selected for a major Official Development Assistance (ODA) project by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) to strengthen prostate cancer early diagnosis capabilities in Ivory Coast.

Running through 2031 with a budget of approximately 7 billion KRW, the initiative aims to reduce mortality rates for prostate cancer, which currently accounts for an 18.9% incidence and 15.7% mortality rate in the country. The project will focus on four major hubs, including Abidjan and Bouake, by implementing mobile screening services, developing local diagnostic guidelines, and conducting public awareness campaigns.

This program will work in tandem with the ongoing Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) project to establish a National Cancer Center in Ivory Coast. By combining infrastructure support with software-based expertise, such as training medical professionals and establishing diagnostic systems, the initiative seeks to build a comprehensive national cancer management framework.