Mendefera, 24 February 2025 – The Ministry of Health’s Southern Region branch reported that healthcare programs worth over 164 million Nakfa were implemented in 2024. The announcement was made during an activity assessment meeting held in Mendefera on 20 and 21 February.
Dr. Amanuel Mihreteab, Head of the Regional Health Office, stated that modern disease diagnostic equipment has been introduced in all 12 sub-zones of the region, significantly improving disease detection. He also reported that the prevalence of communicable diseases, particularly malaria, had decreased by 12% compared to the previous year.
Dr. Amanuel further highlighted that, with the contributions of both the public and local administrations, 32 maternity waiting rooms have been constructed. As a result, the number of pregnant women delivering in health facilities has increased by over 300%, while maternal and infant mortality rates during childbirth have significantly declined. Vaccination coverage has risen to 88%, and tuberculosis cure rates have reached 95%. He also noted the crucial role played by barefoot doctors in disease prevention and treatment.
According to reports presented by the sub-zones, cataract surgery was performed on over 1,328 patients, and the public contributed 2.8 million Nakfa toward the development of health facilities.
Participants held extensive discussions on the issues raised during the meeting and adopted several recommendations.
Mr. Habteab Tesfatsion, Governor of the region, emphasized the importance of research-based programs to control disease prevalence. He also affirmed the regional administration’s contribution to improving healthcare infrastructure.
Speaking at the event, Ms. Amina Nurhussein, Minister of Health, pledged to intensify efforts to enhance healthcare services and reduce maternal and infant mortality rates to zero. She also called for coordinated efforts among Government institutions to achieve national health goals.