Alwaleed Philanthropies ‘Global’ Partners with Jahjaga Foundation to Bring Cutting-Edge Medical Equipment to Kosovo's Nuclear Medicine Clinic

Alwaleed Philanthropies “Global” has partnered with the Jahjaga Foundation to significantly improve healthcare services in Kosovo. This landmark collaboration aimed to equip the Nuclear Medicine Clinic in Kosovo with a cutting-edge SPECT/CT/PET device—an essential step towards meeting the growing demand for effective cancer diagnostics and treatment.

Kosovo faces an increasing cancer burden, with approximately 1,300 new cases reported annually. However, limited equipment and capacity at the Oncology Clinic have contributed to lengthy waiting periods, often stretching over three months. While a few patients can afford treatment abroad, many—especially vulnerable and marginalized groups—are left without timely access to care.

This initiative sought to:

• Make Kosovo the first center in the region to eliminate public sector waiting lists for radiation diagnostics.
• Extend access to high-quality diagnostic services to neighboring countries in the Western Balkans.

These goals underscore the commitment to equity, efficiency, and healthcare excellence.

In 2023, significant progress was made with the delivery and installation of the SPECT/CT/PET medical imaging system. Additionally, a comprehensive training program was initiated for clinical staff to ensure optimal use of the new equipment.

The project was successfully completed in April 2024, with the following key achievements:

• The official opening ceremony took place in Kosovo, marking the launch of the newly equipped clinic.
• His Royal Highness Prince Alwaleed bin Talal was awarded the Presidential Merit Medal by the President of Kosovo in recognition of his generous support.
• Since activation of the new device, the medical team has conducted over 1,500 advanced diagnostic procedures (including bone, heart, thyroid, and parathyroid scans) for more than 5,000 individuals.

This transformative project ensures that diagnostic services using the new SPECT/CT/PET technology are offered free of charge to patients within the public healthcare system. By eliminating the need to travel abroad for accurate diagnostics, the initiative guarantees faster, more equitable access to essential care for all citizens. Aligned with Alwaleed Philanthropies’ “Global” mission to improve lives worldwide, the project not only enhances Kosovo’s healthcare infrastructure but also sets a new benchmark in medical collaboration across the region.