Asmara, April 2025: The neonatology unit at Orotta Hospital is almost unrecognisable: After months of refurbishment and careful preparation, the ward was able to reopen in March. An extensive termite infestation in the walls necessitated swift action. Two of the people who played a key role in the project talk about construction site dust, intensive training days and quiet moments that got under their skin: Dr Renate Turan, senior consultant at Immanuel Klinikum Bernau, and site manager Norbert Kessler.
Dr Turan, what particularly moved you about this assignment?
The transformation. The ward was previously dingy and partly without functioning technology. Now it is modern, structured — a place where premature and newborn babies have a real chance of survival. When the first children moved into their new warm beds on the fifth day of our mission, it was a goosebump moment.
What specific medical improvements have been made?
We have introduced the nursing staff to the use of state-of-the-art technology: Saturation monitors, radiant warmers, perfusors. The devices run stably — even during power cuts. The new heated beds keep the temperature constant. Carers register alarms more quickly and take more targeted action. That saves lives.
Were there any particular challenges?
Yes — especially when it came to hygiene. There is still a great need for training, for example in hand disinfection or handling venous accesses. Unfortunately, there have been serious infections in the past. That’s why we have repeatedly emphasised basic measures and distributed small disinfectant dispensers — they fit in every lab coat pocket and make a difference. Hygiene is not a minor matter — it is essential for survival.
Was there a moment that touched you personally?
Absolutely. An assistant doctor from gynaecology came to the ward round voluntarily after her shift to learn more. This willingness shows that our work is effective — not just technically, but also on a human level. These are the moments that give meaning to our work.
Mr Kessler, what was your biggest construction challenge?
The time frame of 18 weeks was tight, so everyone had to pull together. The cultural differences led to conflicts at one point or another. But in the end we found solutions together — often more pragmatically than we are used to at home. For example, the fresh plaster had to be painted straight away.
How was the collaboration with your Eritrean colleagues?
With respect. And that’s what counts. In the end, we were all working towards the same goal.
What was a special moment for you personally?
When we had sealed the last windows, we heard the first cries of a newborn baby from the neighbouring room. That’s when we knew: We’re not just building walls here — we’re creating a place where life begins.
Dr Peter Schwidtal, First Chairman of Archemed, adds:
‘Our craftsmen have done a fantastic job: What a piece of jewellery has been created! Health Minister Amna is also delighted with the new premises.
A shared outlook?
Dr Renate Turan: We want to pass on our knowledge — permanently. The training courses in the new technology were a start. Now it’s a matter of our local colleagues developing the confidence to continue independently. We still have a lot planned: Hygiene training, ultrasound training, etc.
Norbert Kessler: And we must never forget: Our standard cannot be taken for granted. But with respect and team spirit, we are bringing it a little closer.
Archemed plans to continue supporting the Orotta Hospital in the future with expertise, medical equipment and materials in order to further improve the quality of treatment and give children a better future. Archemed is asking for donations to continue the project: www.archemed.org/spenden, donation account IBAN: DE63 4145 0075 0000 0882 03 (Sparkasse Hellweg-Lippe).