As we reflect on the first half of 2025, we are once again inspired by the resilience of the women we serve and the dedication of our partners across Africa. Despite ongoing challenges — from political instability to infrastructure limitations — our partners continue to deliver life-changing care, empower survivors, and expand awareness of obstetric fistula.
This quarter, we saw powerful examples of perseverance: women traveling hours for reintegration training, community leaders stepping up to raise awareness, and medical teams pushing forward with surgeries and outreach despite difficult conditions. Below are highlights from each of our partner programs.
Dr. Itengre welcomes a survivor who returned to visit the ARENA Medical Center.
Niger: DANJA Fistula Center
DANJA’s ongoing efforts remain vital to the region. Dr. Sanoussi, a skilled surgeon from a partner SIM hospital, performed 24 surgeries. Reintegration services reached 17 women, helping them take steps toward healing and independence.
Construction of a vital security wall is nearly complete; this enables doctors to treat patients in emergency situations at night, and helps protect patients and the DANJA Fistula Center’s staff for years to come.
Soap and other products made by survivors from the soap-making workshop this quarter.
Burkina Faso: ARENA Medical Center
ARENA’s impact this quarter was outstanding:
- 89 surgeries performed, with 44 supported directly by WFF
- 3,500+ people reached through 35 community outreach activities, especially around International Day to End Obstetric Fistula
- 87 survivors participated in empowerment programs
ARENA’s outreach efforts included advocacy and prevention training 70 community health workers and 20 community leaders, as well as engaging 80 pastors and youth leaders from local churches. These efforts are building a sustainable network of advocates for fistula prevention and care.
Empowerment activities ranged from trauma healing to income-generating skills like soap making, beadwork, and sewing. One standout moment: a special soap-making workshop held during outreach in Madiasso, Banfora, where survivors learned new skills while raising awareness for maternal healthcare in their communities.
Ethiopia: Mekelle Urogynecology Fellowship
We are excited to be reengaged with the Urogynecology Fellowship at Mekelle University in partnership with the Hamlin Fistula Center Ethiopia, this year. The fellowship program continues to strengthen surgical capacity in Ethiopia. Two fellows — Dr. Wondu Belayneh and Dr. Solomon Huruy — have seen 68 cases so far this year, supported by a robust team of Ethiopian and international experts.
Training modules covered a wide range of procedures, from fistula repair to pelvic organ prolapse surgeries. These investments in local expertise are building a sustainable future for women’s health in the region. Several of WFF’s Board members will be lending their expertise to this program throughout the year, both virtually and in person.
This program is made possible by: Worldwide Fistula Fund, Ayder Comprehensive Specialist Hospital (ACSH), the Center for Global Health & Social Responsibility at the University of Minnesota, the College of Health Sciences at Mekelle University (MU), The Fewsi Foundation, and Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia.
Uganda: Terrewode Community Women’s Hospital
Terrewode provided 21 surgeries this quarter, including for a 15-year-old girl and a woman who had lived with fistula for 26 years. Reintegration services reached 80 women, including one who traveled five hours to attend training.
Outreach efforts by OFAAN members spanned five districts and multiple hospitals, ensuring that women in remote areas are not left behind.
Mary at Terrewode Community Women’s Hospital on the day of her discharge, Spring 2025.
Mary’s Journey
For 26 years, I lived in silence. I thought I was the only one. But at Terrewode, I found healing — and a sisterhood I never imagined.
Mary, survivor from TWCH
Mary’s story is one of extraordinary resilience. After decades of isolation, she received surgery and reintegration support through Terrewode. Her courage and transformation are a powerful reminder of why this work matters — and why your support is so vital.
Kenya: LEFI
LEFI made strong progress across all program areas this quarter:
- 7 women referred for surgery through advocate network
- 6 new solidarity groups launched, totaling 210 members
- Reached a milestone of KES 8 million (~$61,825 USD) in collective net worth among 25 survivor-led groups
Prevention efforts this quarter included media appearances, school trainings, and youth empowerment programs through the Young Champions Fistula Clubs. These clubs now operate in eight schools per county, equipping students with knowledge on reproductive health and safe motherhood, and to become advocates in their communities.
Despite weather and political disruptions, LEFI’s community-based model continues to thrive, driven by survivor leadership and local engagement.
Solidarity group gathers in Kenya
Looking Ahead
From Niger to Kenya, our partners are not only treating fistula — they’re transforming lives. Their work is a testament to what’s possible when compassion, expertise, and community come together.
We have some exciting things planned for this fall! Stay tuned for some new collaborations, new initiatives, and the release of our new strategic plan that will lead us through the next three years in the fight to end fistula.
Thank you for your ongoing commitment to this work. Your support fuels every surgery, every training, and every story of healing. Together, we are restoring dignity and hope — one woman at a time.
Warmly,
Liz Crawford
Executive Director
Worldwide Fistula Fund
