International Fistula Day observed

The International Day of Fistula was observed at national level in Mendefera on 11 June.

Mendefera, 12 June 2019- The International Day of Fistula was observed at national level in Mendefera on 11 June.

At the event in which government officials, representatives of UN offices in Eritrea and other invited guests took part, Ms. Amina Nurhusein, Minister of Health, said that according to the report of the World Health Organization yearly 50 to 100 thousand women are becoming victims of Fistula and out of which about 15 thousand only get medical treatment due to various reasons. Minister Amina went on to say that Fistula victim women are found mostly in the developing countries.

Pointing out that Eritrea is exerting effort to ensure that no woman suffers from the disease, Minister Amina called for putting in place patients waiting rooms in all Hospitals and conduct timely treatment as well as conducting sustainable awareness raising programs and provide educational opportunities to women with a view to increase their understanding  and awareness.

The Representative of the UN Offices in Eritrea, Ms. Susan Ngongi on her part said that globally more than 800women are facing health problems associated with delivery including fistula and called for countries to renew their commitments to eradicate the disease within ten years.

Indicating that the issue is not to be left to the Ministry of Health only, Ms. Tekea Tesfamicael, President of the National Union of Eritrean Women, stated that the union is working in cooperation with partners to bring about behavioral change.

At the event prices and certificate of recognition was handed over to Dr. Habte Hailemelekot, Dr. Dawit Sereke and Sister Yirgalem Isak for their outstanding contribution in treating fistula patients.