SALAMAT CIO successfully completed its first medical mission to Sudan since the outbreak of war in April 2023, delivering essential healthcare services, training, and community support in Dongola, Northern State, from 11–19 April 2026.
This landmark mission was led by Professor Galil Ali , Chairman of SALAMAT CIO, whose vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment were instrumental in making the organisation’s first post-war return to Sudan possible. Working closely with Dr Maysa Hamza, Secretary General of SALAMAT CIO, he coordinated efforts to bring together volunteers, partners, and local stakeholders to deliver meaningful and sustainable healthcare support to the people of Northern State.
Despite logistical challenges and a reduced deployment compared to previous missions, the team delivered a wide range of clinical services, educational programmes, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at creating sustainable impact.
Supporting Frontline Emergency Care
A key focus of the mission was collaboration with healthcare professionals at Dongola Specialised Hospital.
The experience highlighted the exceptional resilience and professionalism of local healthcare workers who continue to deliver high-quality care under significant resource constraints.
Working alongside the local A&E team, SALAMAT CIO supported patient care across emergency, resuscitation, and critical care settings over the course of the week.
Advancing Surgical and Vascular Services
The surgical component of the mission combined direct clinical care with teaching, mentoring, and knowledge exchange.
Alongside local surgical teams, outpatient clinics were conducted and operative procedures supported, with a focus on strengthening surgical capacity and service development.
A significant contribution was made by Mr Manfred Ramirez, Consultant Vascular Surgeon, who performed free arteriovenous fistula (AVF) creation procedures for patients requiring dialysis access. His work provided essential, life-changing vascular access for renal patients while also supporting local surgical teams through hands-on collaboration.
This initiative strengthened both immediate patient care and long-term vascular access services within the region.
Restoring Hearing and Transforming Lives
One of the most impactful elements of the mission was the hearing aid restoration programme, reflecting SALAMAT CIO’s commitment to disability inclusion and quality of life.
Essential components were procured to restore and maintain up to 300 hearing aid devices, including batteries, tubing, programming tools, and maintenance equipment.
The programme is expected to significantly benefit:
- Children, enabling improved communication and educational engagement
- Adults and older individuals, restoring social connection and independence
For many recipients, the restoration of hearing represented a deeply emotional moment, restoring dignity, confidence, and human connection.
Strengthening Renal Services Through Education
At the Dongola Dialysis Centre, the mission established a sustainable academic initiative designed to support long-term improvement in patient care.
A structured weekly academic half-day programme has now been introduced, featuring:
- Weekly teaching sessions every Thursday
- Case-based discussions
- Clinical lectures delivered by healthcare staff
- Continuous professional development activities
This initiative aims to embed a culture of ongoing learning and improve outcomes for patients with chronic kidney disease
Empowering Midwives and Improving Maternal Health
Maternal and neonatal health was a key priority throughout the mission.
A comprehensive training programme was delivered for 50 midwives from across Northern State, focusing on essential practical and emergency skills, including:
- Infection prevention and control
- Safe delivery practices
- Recognition and management of obstetric emergencies
- Maternal and neonatal wellbeing
To support clinical practice, 50 fully equipped midwifery kits were also donated, containing essential tools such as blood pressure monitors, stethoscopes, fetal monitoring equipment, sterile delivery instruments, infant scales, thermometers, and core clinical supplies.
These resources are expected to improve the safety of home deliveries and reduce preventable maternal and neonatal complications.
Community Engagement and Health Education
Beyond hospital-based care, SALAMAT CIO extended its impact through public health engagement.
Team members participated in television and radio programmes, delivering health education, addressing common medical concerns, and responding to questions from the public.
This “Clinics on Air” initiative significantly expanded the mission’s reach, bringing health education directly into communities across Northern State.
Cultural Connection and Reflection
During the mission, the team visited Kerma, one of Sudan’s most significant archaeological sites and among the earliest known centres of civilisation.
The visit offered a moment of reflection on Sudan’s rich cultural heritage, resilience, and historical depth.
Special thanks are extended to Minister Manal, Minister for Social Affairs, for facilitating this visit.
Acknowledgements
SALAMAT CIO extends sincere gratitude to all those who supported the success of this mission, including:
- The Wali and Government of Northern State
- Dr Satti, Minister of Health
- Minister Manal, Minister for Social Affairs
- Dr Nazik for her invaluable support
- Sudanese Working Abroad (SSWA – Mogtaribeen)
- Social Security teams
Gratitude is also extended to:
- Medical teams at Dongola Specialised Hospital
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital staff
- Renal Centre professionals
- Operating theatre teams
- Drivers, accommodation staff, and logistical support teams
Above all, SALAMAT CIO thanks the people of Dongola for their warmth, hospitality, and trust throughout the mission.
Looking Forward
As SALAMAT CIO’s first mission to Sudan since the outbreak of war in April 2023, the Dongola Medical Mission marks a significant milestone in the organisation’s humanitarian journey.
The mission demonstrated that meaningful healthcare delivery, education, and capacity building remain possible even in challenging environments. It also reinforced the importance of long-term partnership in strengthening healthcare systems.
While much work remains, this mission reaffirmed SALAMAT CIO’s ongoing commitment to supporting Sudan’s healthcare system and the communities it serves.
This was not only a return to Sudan , it was a renewed commitment to stand alongside its people and continue building a stronger, healthier future together.
