We support the Halibet Hospital in Asmara, Eritrea, with annual medical missions particularly focused on the treatment of burns in children. The hospital houses the country’s only burn center, which is essential for the care of children with severe burns and their consequences.
Burns in Children in Eritrea
In Eritrea, burns in children are unfortunately widespread. Open fires, insufficient safety precautions, and a lack of education lead to children frequently coming into contact with flames, whether during play or through improper cooking methods. Without adequate medical treatment, these injuries often leave permanent damage.
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During the missions, over 100 surgical procedures are performed annually on children who have suffered severe consequences from burns or improper treatment. Finger and hand burns are particularly common, occurring in children who have come into contact with open fire sources. Thanks to specialized medical care, many children can lead functional lives again. The ARCHEMED team works in rotation in close consultation with a team from Interplast, which also operates at the burn center once a year.
In addition to direct treatment, psychosocial support also plays an important role. A psychologist helps the children overcome their fears and better cope with the healing process.
An important component of the ARCHEMED mission is the training of local doctors and nurses. The German medical team works closely with their Eritrean colleagues to further educate them in the treatment of burns and to promote knowledge exchange. This not only ensures better patient care but also contributes to the sustainable improvement of the local medical infrastructure and expertise.
Project Management
Dr. Franz Jostkleigrewe, Duisburg
