The Kenya First Ladies Association has lamented the lack of funds for cancer patients and called for urgent intervention by the national government, the United Nations and other development partners.
The governors' wives (who make up the first ladies association) said they wished to take a leading role in the fight against the disease, but were frustrated by lack of medicine.
Speaking at a book launch in Meru, the association's secretary Phoebe Munya said the number of cancer cases in the counties had reached worrying levels and needed quick action. Phoebe is the wife of Council of Governors Chairman Peter Munya.
"For example, majority of cancer patients currently at Kenyatta National Hospital are from Meru County. Other counties face a similar challenge of patients lacking treatment. If urgent measures are not taken, we are going to see impoverished communities," said Mrs Munya.
She was accompanied by Lillian Mutua, the wife of Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua.
The two said the national government, UN and other development agencies should quickly provide funds for procurement of cancer drugs needed by thousands of suffering patients in the counties.
"The UN has set aside funds for HIV and Aids, malaria and other diseases, but there is no fund for cancer, yet it is one of the leading causes of death. We have written to them on this matter and are hoping for a favourable response," Munya said.
Mrs Mutua advised locals to go for cancer screening, saying it was key to treatment.