A distinguished high level delegation from the Children's Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF) visited the neonatal care unit and the new expansion building at the Comprehensive Specialized Referral Hospital, Hawassa University College of Medicine and Health Sciences, March 03/2026.
Dr. Fitsum W/Gebriel, Chief Executive Director of CMHS and a neonatologist, clinical lead of SLL360 project at HU, warmly welcomed the delegates and acknowledged that their visit underscores CIFF's commitment to enhancing neonatal care and maternal health in the region. She highlighted the transformative impact of collaboration with Saving Little Lives 360 (SLL-360), and emphasized that these partnerships are crucial in minimizing neonatal mortality rates and advancing healthcare services at the hospital and regional level.
Dr. Fitsum expressed gratitude for the CIFF delegation's visit, noting its importance in fostering integration and collaboration in healthcare initiatives, and acknowledged CIFF's generous support through NEST360, which has been instrumental in improving neonatal care.
Dr. Mekdes Shifeta, Head of the Pediatrics Department at HU-CMHS and Principal Investigator of the SLL-360 Program in HU, also recognized the significance of CIFF's contributions. She shared exciting news about the two-floor expansion building that is at a final stage, funded by CIFF through the NEST360 Global Alliance. This new building will facilitate a zero-separation approach, allowing mothers to stay close to their newborns during critical care.
The visiting team took a tour of the Newborn Care Unit and the expansion building, expressing admiration for the progress made in enhancing neonatal services. Their visit marks a pivotal moment in strengthening partnerships aimed at improving child health outcomes in Ethiopia.
