In Cape Town last week, African Nobel Laureates Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu voiced support for an IAEA-backed global initiative of partners to fight cancer in developing countries.

Many of the world's leading cancer experts met in Cape Town, South Africa, from 11-16 December at training workshops and sessions to discuss the way forward for the global health initiative, called the Programme of Action for Cancer Therapy (PACT). The sessions were supported by the IAEA Nobel Peace Prize Fund.

“With like-minded bodies, the IAEA is active in mobilising public awareness and financial support for improving cancer treatment in countries where there is a great need,” Dr. Mandela said in a message to the meeting. “In these countries, improved access to skill and technology can often make the difference between life and death.”

In his message, Arbishop Tutu said he was “deeply moved” that the IAEA invested some of its Nobel peace prize money in cancer management. “This is a magnificent gesture and as someone who has fallen victim to this disease I am doubly enthusiastic of your efforts.”

Participants agreed on a declaration on the need for cancer control in Africa.