In October 2024, Kosovo’s capital turned to pink as part of a broad breast cancer awareness campaign led by the Ministry of Health. Iconic public buildings including the Government Building, the Ministry of Health, the National Library, and Prishtina’s Clock Tower, were illuminated in pink as a show of solidarity and a call to action.
The display was eye-catching but education was the focus. Radio and television stations across Kosovo featured segments. Informational and awareness-raising materials, from brochures to pink ribbons to information stands, were distributed in public spaces to spread messages and encourage preventive action.
The goals of the campaign were to garner greater public awareness about breast cancer and the importance of early detection, increased public participation in screening activities, and active community involvement in events and promotional activities. Deputy Minister of Health Dafina Gexha Bunjaku stated, “As institutions and as a society, we are committed to continuing this battle until every woman in Kosovo has full, high-quality, and unobstructed access to healthcare. This is both a political promise and a moral obligation to every citizen. Breast cancer is a challenge we face together, and together, we will overcome it. We thank our partners, including AQH, for supporting us in realizing our goals.
”Throughout the month, each initiative reinforced the message that early detection saves lives. Along with activities held at local level in collaboration with municipalities, the campaign culminated in a “Pink Party”. The concluding event further bolstered the message, engaging the community and inspiring a collective commitment to health. The Ministry of Health’s approach was both broad and focused, targeting diverse audiences while underscoring a singular message: early detection saves lives.
The 31-day campaign was organized with the support of Accessible Quality Healthcare (AQH) project, a joint initiative between the Ministry of Health of Kosovo, the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation that is implemented by the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute.
