Pakistan has signed a landmark agreement with the World Health Organization (WHO) to provide free cancer medicines to 8,000 children every year. The deal was formalized on July 29, 2025, in Islamabad, where Health Minister Mustafa Kamal and WHO Representative Dr. Dapeng Luo signed the pact. This initiative is part of the Global Platform for Access to Childhood Cancer Medicines, aimed at offering quality-assured medicines to children battling cancer in Pakistan.
The agreement will remain effective until December 31, 2027, with possible extensions. WHO will also support Pakistan’s health ministry and provincial authorities with technical guidance and resources to fight childhood cancer. The goal is to raise the survival rate of children with cancer in Pakistan from 30% to 60% by 2030. Limited access to treatment has been a key reason behind low survival rates compared to 80% in wealthier countries.
Health Minister Mustafa Kamal described the day as a milestone for Pakistan. He thanked WHO, UNICEF, and other partners for making free cancer treatment possible for children. Kamal emphasized that saving even one child’s life through this cooperation means saving humanity. Pakistan is the second country in the Eastern Mediterranean Region to join this global effort, which is led by WHO and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Alongside the cancer medicines agreement, Kamal highlighted the urgent need to control Pakistan’s high fertility rate and reduce preventable diseases. He pointed out that 11,000 mothers die each year from pregnancy complications and stressed the importance of population control for a healthier society. Kamal also raised concerns over waterborne diseases and sewage treatment problems that contribute to the country’s health challenges.
Kamal urged the public to cooperate with government efforts, especially in vaccine acceptance. He expressed frustration that many families refuse vaccines despite outreach efforts. The minister called for a national mindset change to improve public health and achieve lasting progress in fighting diseases across Pakistan.