We would like to reassure our donors that Shaukat Khanum accounts are operating as normal, with no restrictions in place. Our founder is unable to make an appeal for the completion of Shaukat Khanum Karachi this year. With your donations, we can finish the project and continue helping those who rely on our support across Pakistan.
Historic Milestones Achieved Through Giving
Before this journey began, Pakistan had no specialist centre for cancer support. Families with means travelled abroad, while others faced uncertainty at home. Thanks to people united in giving, what once seemed impossible became reality.
Lahore 1994: A Nation’s First Step
Shaukat Khanum opened its doors in Lahore in December 1994. It made history as Pakistan’s first specialist centre of its kind, comparable to those in advanced economies. From the beginning, it set an ambitious goal to use Zakat funds for around 75% of those it served. This made cancer support more accessible in the region.
Below are some highlights from Lahore last year:
- Infrastructure expanded to include an additional 41-bed unit.
- Infrastructure expanded to include a ninth operating theatre.
- Pakistan-focused study published in an international journal.
Peshawar 2015: Expanding Support
Two decades later, Shaukat Khanum Peshawar was inaugurated in December 2015. Like Lahore, it was established to use Zakat funds for the majority of those it served. Together, these facilities hold the JCI Enterprise Accreditation. They are the first in Pakistan to do so, and the second in the world.
Below are some highlights from Peshawar last year:
- Marking 10 years of service.
- JCI Enterprise renewal completed.
- Additional short-stay lodging opened for up to 27 people travelling long distances.
Karachi 2026: The Next Chapter
In May 2023, a Walk-in Clinic began operating through your generosity. The main facility is set to open in December 2026. At one million square feet, it will be twice the size of Shaukat Khanum Lahore. This marks another milestone in our journey of hope and progress.
Below are some highlights from Karachi last year:
- Final landscaping phase underway.
- Site visit by Turkish Consul General Cemal Sangu.
- Opening planned for December 2026.
The countdown is on to December 2026. Join us as we work towards the finish line, Insha’Allah.
Help Us Open Karachi Karachi 2026 Update
How Your Zakat Is Used at Shaukat Khanum
Every Zakat donation made through Imran Khan Cancer Appeal goes to those who qualify for Zakat at Shaukat Khanum. Each application is reviewed by a local team. This is done under a Shariah Compliance Framework overseen by a qualified scholar.
In summary:
- Zakat given through us reaches those who qualify for assistance at Shaukat Khanum.
- Each application is reviewed locally.
- Zakat funds are managed separately from other charitable donations such as Sadaqah or Fitrana (Zakat al-Fitr).
OTHER WAYS TO SUPPORT OUR WORK
Zakat donated through us helps people who qualify under Islamic rules. You can also give Sadaqah and other charitable donations to keep Shaukat Khanum running each day. These contributions provide nourishing meals, support daily operations, and fund future projects.
During Ramadan, you can share Suhoor and Iftar meals with families who accompany their loved ones, bringing comfort and ease when it matters most.
Donate Sadaqah £50 Feeds One Person (10 Days) £150 Feeds One Person (30 Days)
Stories from Shaukat Khanum
Dr Aasim Yusuf is the Chief Medical Officer at Shaukat Khanum Hospitals and our longest serving staff member. Read his reflections on 31 years of leadership, challenges, and achievements in expanding cancer support across Pakistan.
Our Hospital Schooling Programme provides child cancer patients with the support they need to keep up with their education during treatment. Discover what inspired Consultant Physician Dr Haroon Hafeez to design and launch this groundbreaking initiative.
