Jimma University has officially inaugurated the second national eye bank at the Jimma University Medical Center. This facility, established through a collaboration between Jimma University, the Ethiopian Blood and Tissue Bank, and the Oromia Health Bureau, aims to improve access to sight-restoring treatments throughout the country.
During the inauguration, Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Dereje Duguma delivered a keynote address highlighting the essential role of vision in human life and reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving the efficiency and accessibility of healthcare services. “This eye bank symbolizes hope and a renewed vision for numerous Ethiopians awaiting corneal transplants and specialized eye care,” Dr. Duguma stated. He pointed out that this center is one of the few operational eye banks in Africa, capable of serving both local patients and those from neighboring countries.
Dr. Jemal Abafita, President of Jimma University, underscored the institution’s ability to meet the increasing demand for eye care, noting that over half a million people currently require ophthalmic services. “This center is equipped to perform corneal transplants and provide high-quality eye care on a national scale,” Dr. Jemal affirmed. He also urged community leaders, elders, and religious figures to support public awareness initiatives promoting eye donation.
Prof. Ahmed Zeinudin, Chief Executive Officer of the Jimma University Health Institute, acknowledged the growing national need for specialized eye care and praised the collaborative approach that led to the establishment of the bank. “This initiative showcases how partnerships can result in tangible, life-changing benefits for our society,” he remarked.
Dr. Ashenafi Tazebew, Director of the Ethiopian Blood and Tissue Bank, pointed out the limitations of the existing eye bank in Addis Ababa, which has been operating independently for 23 years. “The opening of this second branch at Jimma University significantly enhances our national capacity to provide vision-restoring procedures,” he stated.
Prof. Nefsena Warkineh, Head of the Oromia Regional Health Bureau, described eye donation as “a profound humanitarian act” that brings light to others after one’s passing. She committed to ongoing institutional support to ensure that the center provides comprehensive and accessible services.
Dr. Jafer Kedir, Head of the Ophthalmology Department at Jimma University, Cornea Transplant Specialist, and Medical Director of the Eye Bank, played a pivotal role in overseeing the project from its inception to completion. He expressed immense joy and pride in seeing their efforts culminate in the successful launch of the facility. Dr. Jafer also extended heartfelt gratitude to all individuals and organizations that contributed to this project, recognizing their vital role in bringing it to fruition.
The inauguration ceremony also included inspiring testimonies from beneficiaries such as Banche Asefa and Nabon Mamo, a Jimma University Visual Arts student, both of whom regained their sight following successful corneal transplants at the new center.
The establishment of this eye bank exemplifies effective multi-sector collaboration and a strengthened commitment to advancing specialized medical care in Ethiopia.