ADDIS ABABA – The Ministry of Health (MoH) announced that nearly 5 million low-income citizens will gain access to free healthcare services through this year’s Ethiopian Summer Volunteer Program.
The program was launched yesterday in collaboration with ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital.
The program, part of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s (PhD) Green Legacy Initiative under the theme :“Renewal Through Planting,” aims to promote both health services and environmental sustainability during the rainy season.
Speaking at the launching ceremony, Health Minister Mekdes Daba (MD) stated that this year’s summer volunteer initiative will significantly expand healthcare services, building on efforts over the past five years which have benefited 10 million people in need.
“This year alone, we aim to serve 5 million citizens who cannot afford healthcare. In addition, we will continue infrastructure development including the renovation of 17 health institutions, maintenance of 400 medical equipment units, and construction or renovation of 89 homes for the elderly,” she said.
Mekdes also highlighted the program’s cost-effectiveness, noting that over 40 million Birr was saved last year through equipment renovations. This year, the ministry projects savings of up to 3 billion Birr through volunteer contributions and resource optimization.
She further emphasized the program’s broader social impact. “Beyond healthcare, last year’s initiative supported more than 3,500 orphaned and unsupported students. We call on all stakeholders to join hands in expanding humanitarian and health services.”
In addition to healthcare services, the program will contribute to environmental efforts. The ministry plans to plant over 250,000 trees this rainy season—prioritizing indigenous species, with 40% for food and 10% for medicinal purposes. Since the launch of the Green Legacy Initiative, the MoH has planted over 12 million trees.
Mekdes also reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to positioning Ethiopia as a destination for medical tourism, working closely with stakeholders in the coming years.
ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital CEO Shimelis Gezahegn(MD) stated that the institution remains committed to volunteerism and supporting the government’s efforts. “We have been actively participating in this initiative, delivering services to thousands in need,” he said.
The launching event was attended by government officials, representatives from regional states, and private sector partners, The Ethiopian Herald learned.
BY MESERET BEHAILU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 13, July 2025
