Cancer survivors have called on the government to provide financial grants, warning that many patients are facing extreme hardship despite state-funded medical care.
Speaking during last week’s World Cancer Day commemoration under the theme ‘United by Unique’, breast cancer survivor ‘Maatang Chaka said the disease often forces patients to leave their jobs, pushing them into financial crisis.
“While the government covers medical expenses, cancer patients struggle to afford basic necessities like food,” she said.
Chaka highlighted that only Starlight Oasis of Hope Hospice provides limited food packages, but many patients remain in dire need. She recounted cases where patients sent to South Africa for treatment were turned away because malnutrition had weakened them too much for medical procedures.
“Many come from remote areas and cannot afford to return home, recover, and go back for treatment. Without money for food, their survival is at risk,” she warned.
Caregiver Kekeletso Motsamai backed the call for financial support, adding that counseling services are equally critical.
“Both patients and caregivers suffer psychological trauma after a cancer diagnosis. If the patient is the family’s breadwinner, their illness leaves the entire household struggling,” she said.
However, Health Minister Selibe Mochoboroane defended the government’s efforts, saying significant support is already being provided. Mochoboroane admitted that Lesotho’s reliance on foreign aid is a major challenge, citing recent funding directives from the US as a wake-up call.
“We need to shift from dependence on aid to self-reliance by building our own health system. We must start with health insurance,” he said.
Mochoboroane proposed a system where all Basotho contribute to health insurance, allowing the government to support organisations assisting cancer patients.
Ntsoaki Motaung is an award-winning health journalist from Lesotho, specializing in community health stories with a focus on sexual and reproductive health and rights, as well as HIV. She has contributed to platforms like “Be in the KNOW,” highlighting issues such as the exclusion of people with disabilities from HIV prevention efforts in Lesotho.
In addition to her journalism, Ntsoaki serves as the Country Coordinator for the Regional Media Action Plan Support Network (REMAPSEN). She is also a 2023 CPHIA Journalism Fellow.
