Ethiopia expands volunteer health campaign to reach 20 million people

Ethiopia has launched an expanded nationwide volunteer health service programme that is expected to provide free medical care to around 20 million people during the rainy season, as reported by Fana Media Corporation (FMC), a partner of TV BRICS.

Minister of Health Mekdes Daba said the volunteer health service programme, introduced by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, is being further integrated into Ethiopia's healthcare system. She added that the initiative demonstrates the value of community engagement in expanding access to essential health services.

According to the minister, more than 15 million people received free medical assistance through the programme last year. Building on those results, this year's campaign aims to increase its reach to 20 million beneficiaries across the country.

Mekdes Daba also highlighted the achievements of the previous campaign, noting that volunteers contributed to improving healthcare services by helping restore medical equipment for continued use, according to the Ministry of Health.