Italy and UNOPS sign €1.5 million project agreement to strengthen Suhul hospital in Tigray

Rome: The Government of Italy and UNOPS announced today the signing of the project agreement “Strengthening Suhul Hospital in Shire – Tigray” aimed at enhancing the healthcare services at Suhul Hospital through the procurement of cutting-edge medical equipment that will improve the hospital’s diagnostic, therapeutic, and patient-monitoring capabilities. The project, funded by the Italian Government, will make it possible to reestablish a fully functional health facility in the area to ensure healthcare services for the population and improve the overall quality of care provided to the community. The project will also provide training on operation and maintenance to the medical personnel serving within the hospital.

Ambassador Agostino Palese, Italian Ambassador to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, said “The agreement signed today constitutes a further demonstration of Italy’s strong commitment towards Ethiopia’s stability and prosperity, ensuring that all communities benefit from the peace dividends that stem from the Pretoria Peace Agreement. While enhancing the healthcare services at Suhul Hospital for the benefit of some of the most vulnerable communities in the country, we reaffirm our determination to contribute to the enhancement of Tigray Region health sector by increasing its resilience and strengthening its capacity”.

Ms. Isabella Lucaferri, Director of the Italian Cooperation (AICS) in Ethiopia said that “this project embodies Italy’s enduring commitment to supporting the health and well-being of all communities in Ethiopia, particularly in regions that have faced significant challenges. AICS, through its numerous projects across the country and in Tigray, aims to ensure that the local population has access to the deserved quality healthcare”.

Ms. Worknesh Mekonnen, Director of the Multi-Country Office of UNOPS in Ethiopia, said: “Today, as we sign this agreement, we are taking a step towards ensuring that Suhul Hospital is equipped with all the technology necessary to provide the highest standard of care. We are not only enhancing the hospital’s ability to provide quality care but also contributing to the overall health and well-being of the community it serves in Shire, contributing to SDG 3 Good Health and Well-Being, and SDG 10 Reduced Inequalities”.

Suhul Hospital serves as a critical healthcare provider in the Northwestern Zone of Tigray, offering a wide range of medical services to communities. This project will not only strengthen the hospital’s existing services but also pave the way for future innovations in patient care.