Organised by the Dutch Embassy in Rwanda, in partnership with Rwanda Cancer Relief and Bethania Home Care, the walk took place around the Kigali Golf Course as part of the global observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, held every October.
Leading the walk were Ambassador Joan Wiegman of the Netherlands and Ambassador Einat Weiss of Israel, who were joined by students, health professionals, and members of the diplomatic community, all dressed in pink.
'We all know someone who has faced cancer, some who survived and some who didn't,' Ambassador Wiegman said. 'That's already a big source of inspiration. I wanted to add my voice, and that of my fellow women ambassadors in Rwanda, to the ongoing efforts to raise awareness and encourage early detection.'
The Dutch Ambassador revealed that her decision to lead the Pink Power Walk was deeply personal.
'Until a year ago, I never thought I would be speaking about this,' she shared. 'In January, during a routine check-up, I was diagnosed with a pre-stage of breast cancer. I felt healthy; nothing was wrong. And suddenly, I was a patient.'
She recalled the emotional turmoil that followed.
'The first feeling was denial. I was simply not okay with it; I didn't agree,' she said. 'The fear only came later when the treatment started and the surgery, that's when I realised this was for real. But I was supported very well. I had good treatment and an incredible network of people who helped me through it.'
Ambassador Wiegman said the experience changed her perspective on life and strengthened her belief in awareness and early detection.
'I realised that not everyone has access to the same level of care I received. So when I came back to Rwanda after my treatment, I decided to tell my story; to share that it's okay, that you don't have to be ashamed or afraid. You can speak up and get treatment," she said, recalling a walk organised by her embassy to support her following her diagnosis.
Friday's walk attracted more than 90 students from Mother Mary International School, along with men and women from various organisations, all walking to symbolise unity and hope. Participants also received free breast cancer screenings and health consultations.
Ambassador Weiss highlighted the importance of early detection and community solidarity.
'People are still not aware how simple it is to go for an early check-up,' she said. 'The difference between early and late detection is life-changing. Breast cancer doesn't discriminate; it affects women and men. We walk together to say that no one should face it alone.'
She also praised Rwanda's leadership in health innovation, noting that the country's achievements have a regional impact.
'Rwanda is a spearhead when it comes to health in Africa. If the message comes from here, it reaches beyond borders, across the East African Community and the continent,' Weiss noted.
Rwanda Cancer Relief, which co-organised the event, emphasised that the walk was part of a larger movement under Pink October.
'We are grateful to our partners for standing with us,' said Mizero Alain Fabrice, Executive Director of Rwanda Cancer Relief. 'We conducted screenings to identify possible early signs of breast cancer. Some people will need follow-up checks, and others received information on prevention and self-examination. Awareness is the first step to saving lives.'
Sister Helena Katebera, who leads Bethania Home Care in Kinyinya, said the event also aimed to highlight community-driven cancer care.
'Our mission is to care for patients undergoing treatment, especially those from outside Kigali who need accommodation and psychological support,' she explained. 'We rely on the community, including churches, individuals, and small donations, to keep this work going. Today's event helps people know that cancer affects every family, and that support must start from awareness.'
Part of the funds raised during the walk will go toward constructing a multi-purpose kitchen at Bethania Home Care to enhance the center's sustainability.
'We have started what we call a multi-purpose kitchen,' Sister Helena added. 'It has a bakery and a kitchen that we can use to feed patients and also generate income for future sustainability. I expect that most of the people here now know about Bethania Home Care and the work we do. Cancer is everywhere, and we all have to do something.'
As the walk came to a close, Ambassador Wiegman urged participants to carry the message forward, to stay aware, get screened, and support one another.
'My message to anyone who just got diagnosed is simple: get screened, learn how to do it yourself, and when you get the news, don't sit in the corner and be scared. Go out there, fight for yourself, get treatment, ask many questions, and organise people around you who can support you,' she said.
Breast cancer remains a major public health concern in Rwanda. According to a report published by Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) in 2020, the country records an estimated 41 new cases per 100,000 women each year and about 19 deaths per 100,000, making breast cancer the most common cancer among women.
Approximately 1,200 new cases are reported annually, and the Ministry of Health estimates that around 650 patients are diagnosed each year, with nearly 600 deaths attributed to the disease. Late detection remains a critical challenge, with more than 70% of cases diagnosed at advanced stages, resulting in a lower five-year survival rate compared to global averages.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
