Overview of the Partnership
AORTIC is partnering with GSF to build new skills for African cancer advocates that have not been active in policy-facing advocacy before and is led by the advocacy special interest group.
The V.O.I.C.E. initiative – Voices of Impact for Cancer Equity: Advancing Policy in Sub-Saharan Africa – is designed to equip cancer advocates in Sub-Saharan Africa with the tools, knowledge, and partnerships necessary to influence policy change, particularly in the context of women’s cancers. Through a series of interactive webinars, community of practice discussions and an in-person workshop at AORTIC 2025, articipants will enhance their understanding of the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC), cancer policy frameworks, and how to drive meaningful policy reforms at national and regional levels.
V.O.I.C.E. focuses on translating research findings into actionable advocacy strategies, fostering collaboration between advocates and policymakers, and sustaining long-term policy advocacy efforts. This initiative is aligned with AORTIC’s goals of advancing research, building capacity, and advocating for policy changes that improve cancer care across Africa, with an emphasis on equitable access to care for women.
Key Objectives
Deepen understanding of cancer policy
Build knowledge among African cancer advocates about national and regional cancer policy frameworks.
Strengthen capacity for policy engagement within civil society.
Elevate lived experiences in policymaking
Bring patient and community voices into national and regional policy dialogues.
Ensure advocacy efforts reflect real-world challenges, particularly for women affected by cancer.
Translate research into policy action
Empower advocates to use research findings to drive meaningful policy reform.
Bridge the gap between evidence and decision-making in cancer control.
Build collaborative policy networks
Foster partnerships between advocates, policymakers, researchers, and clinicians.
Strengthen cross-regional collaboration across all five AORTIC sub-regions.
