Asmara, February 20, 2024 – The Ministry of Health’s Central Region branch held its annual activity assessment meeting on February 19 and 20 to review the execution of programs outlined for 2023 and address encountered challenges.
The meeting featured detailed presentations by representatives from Hazhaz Regional Referral Hospital, and the Community Hospitals of Godayf, Edaga Hamus, and Bet-Mekae, alongside health centers from Gala-Nefhi, Serejaka, and Berik.
The activity reports encompassed a broad spectrum of healthcare aspects including accessibility of healthcare facilities, availability of skilled professionals, prevention and treatment strategies for both infectious and non-infectious diseases, medication supply chain, initiation of new health programs, medical and clinical services, prenatal and postnatal care, family and community healthcare, environmental health efforts, and vaccination coverage.
Mr. Tesfay Tesfazion, the head of the Central Region’s Ministry of Health branch, spotlighted key initiatives such as the comprehensive measures against trachoma, the implementation of environmental sanitation programs, and research to gauge the spread and control of HIV/AIDS. He also mentioned significant upgrades, such as the elevation of Himbirti health station to a health center, the start of maternity services at Bet-Mekae Community Hospital, and the provision of 24-hour services at Edaga Hamus Hospital among other advancements.
In response to the presentations, participants discussed the critical issue of supply and infrastructure shortages, advocating for necessary repairs and expansions within the healthcare system and emphasizing the importance of bolstering disease prevention measures in the region.
Concluding the meeting, Ms. Amina Nurhussen, the Minister of Health, and Mr. Fissehaye Haile, the Governor of the Central Region, praised the implemented programs and urged all stakeholders to enhance collaboration. Their joint message highlighted the need to align healthcare programs closely with the needs of the community and to integrate them within the broader scope of national and international health objectives, ensuring a robust and responsive healthcare system.
