Arba Minch, Ethiopia – Maryjoy Ethiopia, in collaboration with Flow Dialysis, has officially inaugurated and commenced operations of a new kidney dialysis center in Arba Minch city. This marks the third such facility established by the organization, following the successful opening of centers in Hawassa and Addis Ababa.
Sister Zebider Zewde, founder and manager of Maryjoy Ethiopia, revealed that the rapid expansion of these vital healthcare facilities was directly inspired by a news report from Tikvah Ethiopia. "A news I read inspired me for this endeavor," Sister Zebider told Tikvah Ethiopia, emphasizing the media outlet's role in their initiative. She further added, "Tikvah Ethiopia is also our news credibility assurance."
Recounting the pivotal moment, Sister Zebider explained, "I am a follower of Tikvah Ethiopia; one day, as usual, when I was looking at the news, I saw a report stating that '400,000 patients are awaiting kidney dialysis,' and the issue touched my heart." She expressed her shock at the scale of the problem, stating, "I didn't know all these people were waiting in line."
Moved by the alarming statistics, Sister Zebider took immediate action. "I shared the news with many, we discussed that Maryjoy should build a kidney dialysis center; we talked to our partners, government bodies; and in a short time, we made three kidney washing centers a reality," she elaborated. The centers in Hawassa, Addis Ababa, and now Arba Minch are all open and providing services.
Upon commencing operations, Maryjoy Ethiopia gained a deeper understanding of the widespread impact of kidney disease. "When we started working, we saw how much kidney disease is affecting our society," Sister Zebider noted, confirming that the previously opened centers in Hawassa and Addis Ababa are already serving a significant number of patients.
Regarding access to services, Sister Zebider stated, "Currently, we are providing services at half price in all three centers." She also highlighted a crucial benefit for members of Maryjoy Ethiopia, who receive free services. To support their mission and expand access, Sister Zebider Zewde extended an invitation to the public to become members of Maryjoy Ethiopia by contributing two hundred Birr per month.
Sister Zebider also shed light on a critical public health issue: the lack of adequate awareness about kidney disease. "Most of our understanding of kidney disease is incorrect and based on efforts made after the illness. Early diagnosis and follow-up procedures are low," she explained, underscoring the need for greater public education and preventative care.
Expressing profound gratitude, Sister Zebider acknowledged Tikvah Ethiopia's significant contribution. "Tikvah Ethiopia's contribution as the source and reason for the idea behind the kidney dialysis centers opened in Hawassa, Addis Ababa, and Arba Minch is significant; we sincerely thank you," she affirmed.
This initiative comes amidst a severe shortage of dialysis services in Ethiopia. Months prior, the Kidney Treatment and Dialysis Charity Association had informed Tikvah Ethiopia that over 400,000 patients were in need of kidney dialysis, while the country possessed no more than 60 operational dialysis centers. Maryjoy Ethiopia's efforts represent a crucial step in addressing this critical healthcare gap and offering hope to thousands of patients across the nation.
Source: Telegram / tikvahethiopia