October 2025 Newsletter
Save the date
ReachAnother is proud to be partnering with the International Federation for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus in raising our voices and sharing our vision for access to care and equal opportunities for all persons with spina bifida and hydrocephalus.
On October 22, join ReachAnother’s Technical Director, Nebiyat Tesfaye, for a dynamic regional discussion highlighting experiences and perspectives from across the African continent and hear the critical role that prevention plays in addressing Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.
Recent Highlights From Ethiopia
MILESTONE!
All 8 Partner Hospitals have received SBH Training
Together with families and partners, we highlighted the power of food fortification and folic acid supplementation. The message was clear: prevention is possible—and when families have the knowledge and tools they need, everything changes.
Early Diagnosis Saves Lives
Detecting complications early can mean the difference between lifelong disability and healthy development. That’s why we’re excited to share that six of our Centers of Excellence partner hospitals across Ethiopia have now received point-of-care ultrasound machines
- Detect spina bifida complications such as hydrocephalus and bladder problems
- Guide treatment for better outcomes
It’s a big step forward and in the months ahead, more hospitals will receive both equipment and hands-on training as we continue expanding access to early diagnosis and quality care for children with neural tube defects.
Inside Ethiopia’s First Pediatric Neurosurgery Center at Zewditu Hospital
If you’ve been following along this year, you know we celebrated the opening of Ethiopia’s first dedicated Pediatric Neurosurgery Center at Zewditu Memorial Hospital. With specialized facilities, new equipment, and a fully staffed team, the Center has quickly become a hub for life-saving pediatric care.
Today, we’re excited to share what’s happened since that ribbon was cut and what it means for thousands of children and families.
Since April 2025, the Zewditu Pediatric Neurosurgery Center is already reshaping care access and outcomes in Ethiopia.
💉100+ surgeries performed since April. Four operating days a week and emergency surgeries available every day.
🧠 CT Scan in action! For the first time, Zewditu has its own diagnostic imaging. More than 600 patients have benefited so far.
👶🏽 2,500+ children seen in the multidisciplinary clinic. Follow-up care and counseling now happen in one central place.
❤️ A better patient experience. Clean wards, working washrooms, shorter wait times, and streamlined services are changing how families experience care.
🚑 Over 250 patients treated in emergency and inpatient services. Zewditu is becoming a true referral hub for complex pediatric cases.
