Haramaya University Partners with EU and Global Agencies to Complete Hiwot Fana Hospital Expansion
Haramaya University has announced a renewed collaboration with the European Union (EU) and development partners from Italy and Spain to finalize the construction of the Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Hospital.
A high-level delegation comprising representatives from the EU, the Italian and Spanish Development Corporations, and the Ethiopian Ministry of Health recently visited the construction site.
The visit aimed to assess the progress of the new building and discuss strategies for its completion and operational launch.
The expansion project, which began in 2014, aims to deliver a facility capable of accommodating 1,000 beds. Professor Mengistu Urgie, Vice President of Academic Affairs at Haramaya University, highlighted the critical need for this infrastructure.
“The previous hospital buildings were not fit to accommodate up-to-date medical equipment,” Prof. Mengistu explained. “We are now working with the Ministry of Health and supporting bodies to put the new building into operation.”
He emphasized that the hospital serves as a vital hub not only for Eastern Ethiopia but also for patients from neighboring countries.
The project is part of a larger effort to modernize Ethiopia’s health infrastructure. According to Mrs. Betrik Neri, Head of EU Development Cooperation in Ethiopia, Hiwot Fana is one of eight higher education institutions currently receiving support to modernize health infrastructure and build professional capacity.
Mr. Kebebew Workneh, Head of the Health System and Capacity Building Sector at the Ministry of Health, confirmed that the government is moving widely to improve health infrastructure, supply chains, and human resource training across the country.
Stakeholders emphasized that the project will serve two distinct purposes: improving patient care and training the next generation of medical professionals.
“Since the hospital is where health students learn practical education, infrastructure improvement and medical supplies will not only modernize services but also help produce qualified medical professionals,” Prof. Mengistu noted.
Mr. Asegid Samuel, Lead Executive for Health Sector Human Resources Development at the Ministry of Health, added that these projects are of “great importance” for enhancing the quality of medical education. This sentiment was echoed by Dr. Ahmed Mohamed, Chief Executive Director of the College of Health and Medical Sciences, who stressed the university’s commitment to organizing the facility with the necessary materials for student training.
Development partners reaffirmed their commitment during the visit. Mr. Michael Morana, Head of Cooperation at the Italian Development Corporation, and Mr. Mariwa Fanjul, Head of the Spanish Development Corporation, stated that their respective governments are providing materials and support to ensure the facility is completed and fully operational.
The collaboration marks a significant step toward modernizing the health sector in the region, ensuring that Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Hospital can provide full-scale medical services to the community.
Reporter:- Habtamu H/giorgies
Photographer:- Behailu Girma
HU Public & International Relations Directorate
Tags: Ethiopia, EU partnership, global agencies, Haramaya University, healthcare development, Hiwot Fana Hospital, hospital expansion, International Collaboration, medical infrastructure, Public Health