Ethiopian Health Minister Honor Grace Hospital with Official Visit
Ethiopia's Health Minister and South Ethiopia Region President conducted a high-level visit to Grace Hospital, recognizing its transformative healthcare services in Sodo.

Sodo, Ethiopia – In a landmark event for regional healthcare, H.E. Dr. Mekdes Daba, Minister of Health of Ethiopia, and Ato Tilahun Kebede, President of South Ethiopia Region, officially visited Grace Hospital, commending its innovative patient care models and advanced medical infrastructure.
Key Moments from the Visit
Facility Tour
The delegation inspected:
The 24/7 emergency unit, praised for handling complex trauma cases
The endoscopy center (first in South Ethiopia)
The Smile Train-sponsored cleft care program performing free surgeries
Staff Engagement
Observed PUM Netherlands-trained teams implementing lean healthcare
Met neonatal ICU nurses reducing infant mortality through kangaroo mother care
Policy Discussions
Explored scaling Grace Hospital's specialist-led model to other regions
Official Statements
"Grace Hospital demonstrates how public-private collaboration can revolutionize healthcare access. We will replicate this model nationwide."
– H.E. Dr. Mekdes Daba, Ethiopian Minister of Health
"This institution is our region’s crown jewel. We pledge full support for its expansion."
– Ato Tilahun Kebede, South Ethiopia Region President
Next Steps
Government partnership to train 500 health workers annually
Priority referral status for complex cases across Southern Ethiopia
Inclusion in the national 2024 Health Sector Transformation Plan
More News & Updates
Published on 5/1/2025