About CANSA

CANSA – Guardian of Cancer Patients’ Human Rights 

On 21 March, Human Rights’ Day is celebrated coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution, that enshrines the rights of all people in South Africa and affirms the democratic values of human dignity, equality and freedom. The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) upholds and helps protect the human rights of cancer patients, by speaking on behalf of patients through its Advocacy and Service departments and facilitating improved access to medication, treatment and palliative care…

CANSA 90th Messages of Appreciation from Partners and Influencers

CANSA 90th – messages of appreciation from partners and influencers – CANSA is so grateful for their support…

CANSA 90th Messages of Appreciation from Cancer Patients & Loved Ones

It warms our hearts to know we’ve been able to make a difference in cancer patients’ lives, and help them know they are not alone in the fight against cancer…

CANSA 90th Messages of Appreciation from Staff & Volunteers

First opening its doors in 1931, CANSA has continued to evolve to meet the needs of cancer patients and loved ones throughout the years and we could not have done so without our amazing staff and volunteers! Special thanks to each and every staff member and volunteer…

CANSA Celebrating 90 Years – Together We Give

CANSA, founded in 1931, has reached an extraordinary milepost, celebrating its 90th anniversary this year. CANSA has remained relevant, highly adaptable, and resilient, through refining its focus and service offerings to better meet the needs of those affected by cancer and educate the public on how to lower cancer risk…

All Aboard for CANSA 90th – Elize Joubert CANSA CEO and Board Member

Elize Joubert, CANSA CEO: ” I appreciate being able to make a positive difference in a cancer patient or loved one’s life through CANSA. I am immensely proud of all CANSA’s achievements, and to have played a role in this organisation for 30 years.”

All Aboard for CANSA 90th – Prof Patrick Arbuthnot CANSA Board Member

Prof Patrick Arbuthnot, Board member: “CANSA carries out valuable, compassionate work to assist people whose lives are affected by cancer. The organisation supports research, which is important to tackle problems that are particularly important to South Africa.”

All Aboard for CANSA 90th – Dr Rosie Mngqibisa CANSA Board Member

Dr Rosie Mngqbisa, Board member: “CANSA has a national footprint and its vision to make its service available to under-served communities inspired me to be part of the team. I admire CANSA’s education and support service, despite the challenges that they have faced over the years. Their innovation in reaching communities regardless of the restrictions introduced by the pandemic and passion of staff to achieve this has been most admirable.”

All Aboard for CANSA 90th – Judge Dhaya Pillay CANSA Board Member

Judge Dhaya Pillay, Board member: “I serve on the Board of CANSA because of its universal appeal as an organisation committed to service of vulnerable people. As a judge, I am cautious about the organisations I associate myself with. Serving with like-minded people selflessly committed to the highest ethical standards, reassures me that this is where I want to be.”

All Aboard for CANSA 90th – Jené Palmer CANSA Board Member

Jené Palmer, Board member: “CANSA admirably symbolises the hope, determination and endurance demonstrated by cancer patients and those affected by cancer. Even though the organisation has faced many challenges, it continues to fight to serve others. This is a fitting tribute to the employees and volunteers who selflessly give of their time and energy to research different aspects of cancer; educate the public and encourage healthy lifestyles; and provide support for cancer patients and those affected by cancer.”

All Aboard for CANSA 90th – Peter Mukheli CANSA CFO and Board Member

Peter Mukheli, CANSA CFO and Board member: “My message to CANSA is to continue to grow its support services, as this makes a tangible impact on communities, and to enable more awareness of cancer.”

All Aboard for CANSA 90th – Dr Martin Mandew CANSA Board Member

Dr Martin Mandew, Board member: “The support that CANSA gives to ordinary people, many of whom do not understand the complex challenges that a cancer diagnosis will present, is extremely valuable.”

All Aboard for CANSA 90th – Bothwell Mazarura CANSA Board Member

Bothwell Mazarura, Board member: “I believe CANSA is playing a key role in advancing awareness and research which is vital to saving lives. Education and awareness play a significant role in getting rid of myths surrounding the disease and allows for early detection and treatment especially amongst our black communities.”

All Aboard for CANSA 90th – Bugs Pancha President CANSA Board

Bugs Pancha, President Board: “I serve CANSA because of the joy I get from working with the most dedicated and committed team. Within the next 10 years I would like to see CANSA’s research, education and support programmes expanded and reaching all people in our country.”

All Aboard for CANSA 90th – Vuyokazi Memani-Sedile Chairperson CANSA Board

Vuyokazi Memani-Sedile, Chairperson Board: “In the words of Madiba ‘education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world’. The more people we educate the more the word can be spread so that people can get checked for cancer or get treatment earlier.”

Fighting Cancer Together with Motsepe Foundation

In late October 2021, CANSA was thrilled to be presented with a generous donation, of R1 million from the Motsepe Foundation, at the African Fashion International opening function held in Gauteng…

CANSA Asks – Do You Read Labels on Food Products and Other Items?

CANSA marks 90 years in August and as part of the celebrations, is proud to announce that its Seal of Recognition Programme is revitalised to further benefit consumers by helping to educate them to make smart, informed choices when purchasing products and to help lower cancer risk…

Revitalising the CANSA Seal of Recognition Programme

As part of CANSA’s 90th birthday, we are revitalising our Seal of Recognition as well as introducing our new category, Physical Activity….

Gary Rom Gives Back to Survivors in Style for CANSA’s 90th

CANSA is excited to be partnering with Gary Rom Hairdressing to celebrate 90 years of fighting cancer through research, education and support. Gary Rom is giving back to CANSA Survivors in style by offering 90 cancer survivors the Gary Rom hair experience at salons countrywide. #HairTellsAStory #CANSA90

RSG Interview CANSA 90th Anniversary

Maria Scholtz, CANSA Head of Sustainability chats on RSG about CANSA’s 90th Anniversary celebrations and services…

CANSA Values