Ethiopia

Female Genital Cutting is still deeply entrenched in Ethiopia. To save future generations of girls and women from this harmful practice, attitudes in society must change. Women's Hope empowers women and girls in the Somali region to stand up for bodily integrity.

Communities in the Somali region are mobilized to improve mother-child health care through their own initiatives. By involving key people within the community, trust in institutional health services is increased.

High-risk pregnant women reside approx. 3 weeks before their child birth at a maternity wating home, which is located on the premises of the Attat hospital. In this way they are close to medical support, particularly to emgergency obstetric care.

Fistula survivors usually live in financial dependence and poverty even after their physical recovery. At the Desta Mender Rehabilitation Center, affected people receive training to build an independent life.

The midwifery students get a diploma after a 3-years course. The students live in a dormitory. The Midwifery College as well as the dormitory are both located on the premises of the St. Luke hospital, where annually 3'300 babies are delivered.