The Cancer Association of Namibia (CAN) has reported that Namibia observes an upward trajectory of cancer cases from 3 700 to 4 300 on average new cases annually. Breast cancer cases remain the highest “life-threatening,” while prostate cancer is epidemiologically stated (per 100 000 population) as the top cancer in Namibia. Cervical cancer is third, while “modern or lifestyle” cancers like colorectal cancer and lung cancer increase.
Bank Windhoek’s Cancer Apple Project marks its 24th anniversary with its launch on Wednesday 24 July 2024. This year’s theme inspired by the brand campaign is called ‘Is it possible to impact a life’.
This signature project will once again raise funds by selling apples, apple juices, and receive donations through the sale of virtual apples on the Bank Windhoek Cancer Apple website. The proceeds from the Bank Windhoek Cancer Apple Project fund the outreach programme of the Cancer Association of Namibia through promoting early screenings in local communities and inviting locals to become advocates and proactively participate in the movement to maximise the impact of the Bank Windhoek Cancer Apple Project.
Proceeds also go to a patient financial assistance fund and support towards the Palliative Care Centre in Windhoek, which was opened in April 2024 to improve quality of life by providing pain and symptom relief for public and private cancer care.
Bank Windhoek’s Executive Officer for Marketing and Corporate Communication Services, Jacquiline Pack, said Bank Windhoek’s joint mission with CAN for the next seven weeks of the Project is to journey with Namibia in raising awareness, giving hope, and making positive differences in the lives of cancer patients and their loved ones.
To strengthen and uplift patients and those caring for loved ones, one of Bank Windhoek’s staff members will share her story after being diagnosed with cancer last year. “She has been remarkably open about her diagnosis and shares her journey with her followers on social media. Her authenticity and courage resonate deeply with people, making her an inspiring figure in the fight against cancer,” said Pack.
CAN Chief Executive Officer, Rolf Hansen said that last year, the National Cancer Outreach Programme and Community Clinics played a vital role in creating awareness about cancer and conducting preventive screenings. “The number of screenings conducted is commendable. It is great to see CAN’s collaboration with the Dr AB May Cancer Care Centre to establish a Breast Clinic for early breast cancer diagnosis,” he said.
In 2023, CAN reported that a total of 991 men were screened through the Rapid PSA Test Programme with 21 positive referrals and consequent pathology confirmations for prostate cancer. Additionally, 3 634 women were screened through our programmes with 53 cervical cancer cases detected and referred for cervical cancer treatment.
After the project launch on Wednesday, 24 July 2024, individuals, corporations, schools, and other organisations can order apples, apple juices, and virtual apples to make donations at any Bank Windhoek branch or online on the Bank Windhoek website. The last day for orders and payments is 30 August 2024.
The top three Pre-Primary, Primary, Secondary, and Combined schools that make the most contributions towards the Project will be awarded cash prizes of N$7000, N$5000, and N$3000 each.
Three lucky customers who order online on the Bank Windhoek website eApple.bankwindhoek.com.na automatically stand a chance to win one of three iPhone 15s in a giveaway competition. The winners will be selected at random at the end of the Project.
Bank Windhoek invites all Namibians to raise cancer awareness by participating in this Project, being an advocate, and proactively participating in the movement to maximise the impact of the Bank Windhoek Cancer Apple Project.