I had the privilege of representing Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia at the FIGO 2025 World Congress in Cape Town last month. My colleague Dr Melaku and I attended thanks to sponsorship from Hamlin Fistula UK.
Throughout the week, we took part in panels and side events on a wide variety of topics that enriched our learning and expanded our horizons. It was also a wonderful opportunity to meet and learn from global leaders in the field of Urogynaecology. Attending such events helps us become knowledgeable, passionate advocates for Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia.
Key take-aways from conference sessions
FIGO president Professor Kihara Anne-Beatrice opened the conference with a vibrant, inspiring speech. She reminded us that qualitative analysis must go beyond numbers to capture the lived realities of women.
Professor Jacqueline Dunkley-Bent from the International Confederation of Midwives emphasised the power of midwife-led care. With established health institutions and a working referral system, health professionals save lives!
One of the most powerful takeaways came from the discussions on maternal health and social justice. We were reminded that teenage pregnancy is not just a medical issue, it’s a matter of human rights. Prevention, safe care, and compassionate support should be our guiding principles.
Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia’s contributions
I was honoured to present on a panel about the treatment gap in obstetric fistula and post-repair incontinence. I also gave an oral presentation on urinary diversion surgeries performed at Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia. Dr Melaku presented a session on renal complications for patients with ileal conduit. These sessions provided opportunities to network with fistula surgeons from around the world.
We also had conversations with global leaders such as the President of Jhpiego and regional peers such as Dr. Charlotte Poll from Urogynaecology fellowship programme, who is working on a new programme in Kenya. We look forward to future collaborations.
A message to carry into the future
I left feeling inspired to continue our work at Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia. My take-home message: the world stands with us in our mission to end suffering for women affected by obstetric fistula.
Change is possible when we work together across disciplines, borders, and cultures. We are part of a global movement for justice and healing.
Thank you to our supporters, colleagues, and partners in the UK. Your support has a lasting impact on the lives of the women we serve. Together, we are building a future where giving life never means losing it.
Dr Biniam Sirak, Acting CEO and Medical Director, Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia
