Medical refurbishment, reengineering center to be constructed in Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa, August 5, 2024 (FBC) – Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health and Korean Foundation for International Health Care (KOFIH) have jointly laid the cornerstone today to build medical devices refurbishment and reengineering center.

The center, to be built with the total outlay of 3.53 million USD that obtained from KOFIH, is anticipated to equip the national health institutions in Ethiopia and beyond with the necessary tools.

Health Minister Mekdes Daba, Korean Ambassador to Ethiopia, Jung Kang and KOFIH President, IL-Soo HA laid the cornerstone in the presence of other officials and invited guests.

Speaking at the occasion, Health Minister Mekdes Daba said this refurbishment and reengineering center project would represent Ethiopia’s endeavors in the health sector. It is also a profound commitment for the wellbeing of Ethiopian citizens, the minister added.

According to her, the project reaffirms the greater bond that Ethiopians have to cherish together with the people of South Korea and the entire team of KOFIH Ethiopia.

“This pivotal movement is not just about laying the foundation for a new building but also laying a new foundation for us to reaffirm that we have a greater bond that we cherish together with the people of South Korea,” Mekdes stated.

The minister also appreciated KOFIH’s entire team who has been working hard tirelessly with Ethiopia through the year in bringing about universal health care coverage and health for all.

The bilateral cooperation between Ethiopia and South Korea has always been a testament to mutual commitment, partnership and respect between the two countries, she recalled.

To this effect, the current refurbishment and reengineering center project is a significant milestone in the journey towards a healthier infrastructure and service for the people of Ethiopia and the region at large.

Korean Ambassador to Ethiopia, Jung Kang on his part underscored that the national refurbishment and reengineering center is crucial to provide quality health services in Ethiopia with greatly enhancing the provision of medical services in Ethiopia and even potentially benefits neighboring countries of Ethiopia.

The ambassador said that: “The Center will greatly enhance the provision of medical services in Ethiopia and potentially benefits even neighboring countries by offering timely maintenance and logistics services; and positioning Ethiopia as a leader in medical equipment management in the region.”

KOFIH President, IL-Soo HA on his part said once the construction of the center is completed, it will contribute to the progress and improvement of the health care system in Ethiopia.

Medical equipment refurbishment and maintenances potential is indispensable for high quality patient care, he added.

“I believe this center will play a crucial role in enhancing the health care system in Ethiopia by ensuring the best management and extension of lifespan of medical equipment,” he noted.

He pointed out that KOFIH has been partner of the Ethiopian Ministry of Health and it has been supporting the health care system with the focus of strengthening biomedical equipment assistance since 2014, as reported by ENA.