Jimma University Medical Center provided prosthetic mobility aids and offered training for caregivers

Under the 2025 KOFIH–KGA Rehabilitation Project, Jimma University Medical Center (JUMC) has provided prosthetic mobility aids to 44 individuals and distributed 156 crutches, advancing its mission to restore mobility, dignity, and independence for people living with limb loss.

The aids including artificial legs for both below-knee and above-knee amputees, alongside crutches manufactured at JUMC’s own Prosthetic and Orthotic Center (POC) were distributed across three sites: Jimma University Medical Center, Seka Hospital, and Bonga town.

Prof. Ahmed Zeynudin, Chief Executive Director of Jimma University Health Institutions (JUIH), highlighted the profound impact of prosthetic services, noting that they offer not only physical rehabilitation but also psychological relief and economic empowerment. He extended gratitude to the Korean Foundation for International Healthcare (KOFIH), the KOFIH–KGA team, and all technicians and biomedical engineers for their dedication and partnership.

Dr. Hunde Ahmed, Medical Director of JUIH, praised the initiative as a vital humanitarian effort and emphasized the importance of strengthening the rehabilitation center. He acknowledged KOFIH’s financial support, which allowed the Prosthetic and Orthotic Center to resume services after interruptions caused by supply shortages. Dr. Hunde also called for sustained investment to build an inclusive and sustainable rehabilitation system.

Mr. Shimelis Legesse, the Southwest KGA coordinator, explained that the project extends beyond material aid to include capacity building and service sustainability. Trainings in psychotherapy and physiotherapy were provided to service users, peer support groups, health extension workers, and health professionals to ensure proper use and support of prosthetic devices. Additionally, prosthetic technicians and biomedical professionals from across Ethiopia received hands-on training, enabling them to produce mobility aids within their own regions.

The project has supported men, women, and children who lost limbs due to accidents and illness, offering them renewed hope and functional independence.