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Shining a Light on Rare Pediatric Cancers

On July 25, 2025, Africa will take a monumental step forward in the fight against rare pediatric cancers and rare diseases as the RARE IN AFRICA Initiative is officially launched in Johannesburg, South Africa. Led by the Petronille Healthy Society, in collaboration with African First Ladies, leading researchers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and advocates, this groundbreaking initiative is a beacon of hope for thousands of children and families across the continent.
Rare pediatric cancers and rare diseases have long been overlooked, leaving countless children without access to proper diagnosis, treatment, or support. The RARE IN AFRICA Initiative is here to change that. This is not just a program, it’s a movement to rewrite the future for those affected by these devastating conditions.

RARE IN AFRICA Initiative
At the heart of the RARE IN AFRICA Initiative is a bold mission: to bridge borders and unite nations, industries, and communities in the fight against rare pediatric cancers and rare diseases. By attracting investment from biopharmaceutical companies, investors, and global partners, we aim to fund groundbreaking research, drive innovation, and ensure that no child is left behind. Our mission is to:
  • Fund groundbreaking research to unlock new treatments and therapies for rare pediatric cancers and rare diseases.
  • Promote early diagnosis to ensure timely and effective interventions.
  • Improve access to life-saving treatments for children and families across Africa.
  • Provide comprehensive support to those impacted, including emotional, financial, and educational resources.
  • Advocate for policy changes to strengthen healthcare systems and reduce the burden of rare diseases.

Why This Matters

Every child, regardless of background or location, deserves a chance to live a healthy, fulfilling life. Yet, for far too long, rare pediatric cancers and rare diseases have been neglected, leaving families to face unimaginable challenges alone. In Africa, where healthcare resources are often limited, the need for action is urgent. The RARE IN AFRICA Initiative is a call to unite—across borders, professions, and communities to ensure that no child is left behind. Together, we can create a future where rare diseases are no longer a death sentence but a challenge we are equipped to overcome. This is not just a fight for survival; it is a battle for dignity, hope, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow. With every step we take, we are rewriting the story of rare diseases, turning despair into determination and isolation into solidarity.

Bridging Borders for Innovation

Research and innovation are the cornerstones of progress in the fight against rare pediatric cancers and rare diseases. Every breakthrough begins with a question, and every discovery brings us closer to a future where no child is left behind. By investing in cutting-edge research, we unlock the potential to develop life saving treatments, improve diagnostic tools, and create innovative therapies tailored to the unique needs of rare disease patients. Innovation is not just about science, it’s about hope, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of solutions for those who need them most.

In Africa, where the burden of rare diseases is disproportionately high, research and innovation are critical to bridging the gap between medical advancements and underserved communities. By fostering collaboration among scientists, healthcare professionals, and global partners, we can accelerate the development of groundbreaking treatments and ensure they reach the children who need them. This is not just about solving today’s challenges—it’s about building a legacy of hope and healing for generations to come. Together, we can turn the tide against rare diseases, transforming what was once unimaginable into a reality where every child has the chance to thrive.

Partnering for Progress

This initiative is designed to benefit every single country in Africa. By fostering collaboration among nations, we aim to create a unified approach to tackling rare pediatric cancers and rare diseases. Each country will have access to shared resources, research findings, and best practices, ensuring that no nation is left behind in this fight. From North to South, East to West, this initiative will empower local healthcare systems, train medical professionals, and provide the tools needed to diagnose and treat rare diseases effectively.

Moreover, the initiative will establish regional hubs to ensure that even the most remote communities have access to critical information and support. By addressing these challenges collectively, we can amplify our impact, reduce disparities, and create a healthier future for all African children.

A Continent-Wide Impact

The RARE IN AFRICA Initiative is a unique opportunity for biopharmaceutical companies, research institutions, and global investors to make a lasting impact. By funding groundbreaking research and innovation in Africa, you can help unlock new treatments, improve access to life-saving therapies, and address critical healthcare gaps. Africa is a continent of immense potential, with untapped opportunities for research and development.

Your investment in the RARE IN AFRICA Initiative will not only advance scientific discovery but also ensure that children and families across the continent have access to the care they deserve. Together, we can fund clinical trials, support cutting-edge research, and bring innovative treatments to underserved populations. This is your chance to be part of a movement that transforms lives and builds a healthier future for millions. Join us in funding groundbreaking research to better understand and treat rare pediatric cancers and rare diseases.

A Future of Possibilities

This initiative is more than a program—it’s a promise to every child and family affected by rare diseases. It’s a promise that their voices will be heard, their struggles acknowledged, and their futures transformed. By working together, we can build a continent where rare diseases are met with cutting-edge research, compassionate care, and unwavering support. This is our chance to create a legacy of health, hope, and unity for generations to come.

Be Part of History
The launch of this initiative on July 25, 2025, in Johannesburg is just the beginning. This is a moment to come together, to act, and to inspire change. Together, we can shine a light on rare pediatric cancers and rare diseases, transforming lives across Africa.

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