The Sidama National Regional Public Health Institute, in collaboration with READIO Ethiopia, successfully conducted a Maternal and Child Health Campaign at Merera Health Center, Luka Abaya Woreda.
The volunteer-driven NGO READIO Ethiopia, led by Dr. Lisanwork Honsebo, mobilized local resources and delivered services valued at over 500,000 ETB, demonstrating the power of community-based, cost-effective healthcare delivery.
A multidisciplinary volunteer team — including psychiatrists, reproductive health specialists, obstetricians, midwives, and eight other professionals — provided:
Free ultrasound-based antenatal follow-up and advanced child health screening, including mental health assessments
Cervical cancer and congenital anomaly screening
On-job training for health extension and facility workers on mental health, maternal & child care, ANC follow-up, and NTD prevention
Achievements:
2,026 women received care and participated in health-promotion campaigns.
432 mothers and children benefited from comprehensive screenings and follow-up.
This initiative reflects a strong partnership focused on strengthening primary health care, building local capacity, and ensuring that no mother or child is left behind in Sidama Region.