Participatory Communication and Capacity Building to Support Cancer Patients, Promote Networking, and Update Knowledge

Cancer… We Are All Concerned Association organized a two-day communication event on January 11 and 12, 2025, under the theme: “Participatory Communication and Capacity Building to Support Cancer Patients, Promote Networking, and Update Knowledge.” The event aimed to enhance collaboration among national and international associations supporting cancer patients, focusing on improving service quality and ensuring the sustainability of humanitarian initiatives. The scientific program featured a series of meetings, discussions, and diverse presentations.

Officially appointed by the Cancer… We Are All Concerned Association, NABD-BC2 Association coordinated invitations to key institutions, including the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, the Directorate of Epidemiology and Disease Control, and the World Health Organization (WHO) office in Morocco. These institutions responded positively, contributing actively to the event’s discussions and activities.

The event commenced with a welcome speech by Ms. Saida Hamidoune, President of Cancer… We Are All Concerned Association.

Day One: Scientific Presentations

The first day was marked by insightful presentations focusing on advancements in cancer care.

Dr Loubna Abousselham, representing the Ministry of Health and Social Protection (DELM), opened the program with a presentation on the WHO framework for meaningful engagement of people with lived experience of cancer. She highlighted Morocco’s efforts to adapt this framework to align with national priorities, such as capacity building and reducing stigma, while calling for enhanced coordination among associations to improve services.

Dr. Awatef Belakhel, a representative of the WHO office in Morocco, commended the progress achieved at both national and international levels and emphasized the essential role of civil society organizations. She stressed the importance of active participation in improving the quality of life for individuals affected by cancer.

Dr. Noureddine Benjafaar provided an overview of the evolution of cancer treatments in Morocco, showcasing significant advancements in the field. He also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of associations, highlighting the impactful work of NABD-BC2 Association.

Drs. Houssam Haddad and Mohamed Massmoudi shared the latest developments in cancer treatment. Their presentations covered integrated care approaches, challenges in medical and social contexts, and innovative solutions for enhancing patient care.

Dr. Abdelkarim Mkaddem, a psychiatrist, concluded the day’s sessions with a presentation on the importance of psychological support for cancer patients and its positive impact on treatment outcomes. The day ended with remarks from Mr. Driss El Belcassmi, a board member of the organizing association, who presented key recommendations from the discussions.

Several representatives of civil society organizations also had the opportunity to speak during the event. Among them, the NABD-BC2 Association, represented by its president, Ms. Ikram Eseghir, made a significant contribution with a thoughtful address on the topic.

Day Two: Practical Workshop

The second day featured a practical workshop led by Dr. Abdelmalek Asrih, an expert in networking, who delved into the creation of alliances among associations.

Participants were divided into working groups to explore strategies for strengthening collaboration and developing joint action plans. The workshop facilitated the sharing of best practices for building an effective network, addressing challenges faced by associations, and emphasizing the importance of involving individuals with lived experiences to enhance the network’s impact.

The workshop culminated in the drafting of a comprehensive report reflecting a shared commitment among the associations to establish a follow-up committee. This committee will oversee the preparation for the creation of a national network to support cancer patients, incorporating representatives with lived experiences to ensure meaningful and sustainable outcomes. An official statement was issued to announce the preparatory steps to form this network.

NABD-BC2 Association extends its sincere gratitude to the Cancer… We Are All Concerned Association for organizing this significant event, which fostered fruitful exchanges of experiences and strengthened collective efforts. The association also thanks the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, the WHO, and all contributors to the event’s success. NABD-BC2 Association reaffirms its dedication to advancing shared goals and improving the quality of life for women affected by breast cancer, both in Morocco and beyond.