Mr AlJaaly’s Humanitarian Cardiac InitiativeSudan

Sudan Background

Sudan, located in north-eastern Africa, is a country with a rich history and diverse cultural heritage. It is the third-largest country on the continent, bordering Egypt to the north, the Red Sea to the northeast, Eritrea and Ethiopia to the east, South Sudan to the south, the Central African Republic to the southwest, Chad to the west, and Libya to the northwest.

Sudan’s history is marked by ancient civilisations such as the Kingdom of Kush, known for its pyramids and trade networks. Over the centuries, Sudan has been a crossroads of various cultures and religions, contributing to its cultural diversity. Islam, practiced by the majority, has played a significant role in shaping the country’s identity.

In recent decades, Sudan has faced political and economic challenges, including conflicts and periods of civil war. The country underwent a historic transformation with the ousting of the longtime President in April 2019, leading to a transitional government. This period of change has been characterised by efforts to address longstanding issues, such as ethnic and religious tensions, economic instability, and social inequality.

Sudan is characterised by diverse landscapes, ranging from the Sahara Desert in the north to the savannas and mountains in the south. The Nile River, the longest in Africa, flows through the country, sustaining agriculture and communities along its banks.

As Sudan navigates its path toward stability and development, the international community plays a crucial role in supporting its endeavours and fostering positive change in this dynamic African nation.

Healthcare system in Sudan

Sudan’s healthcare system faces challenges stemming from a history of conflicts, economic struggles, and insufficient infrastructure. The nation grapples with limited access to healthcare services, particularly in rural areas, where facilities and medical professionals are scarce. Infectious diseases, including malaria and waterborne illnesses, pose significant threats. The government, alongside international organisations, strives to improve healthcare by investing in infrastructure, training healthcare professionals, and addressing public health issues. However, resource constraints and ongoing challenges hinder rapid progress, highlighting the need for sustained efforts to enhance Sudan’s healthcare system and ensure better health outcomes for its population.

Cardiac Services in Sudan

Sudan has a long tradition of heart surgery. Cardiac services were performed in Sudan between 1959 and 1993. Later, in the period from 1998 to 2007, 2,868 open heart operations were done in three centers – Ahmed Gasim Hospital (AGH), Sudan Heart Center (SHC), and Al-Shaab Teaching Hospital (ATH), all based in Khartoum but catering for the whole country. In addition to these hospitals is the Salam Centre for Cardiac Surgery also in the capital Khartoum, and the Wad Medani Heart Center in Wad Medani, the second largest city in Sudan.

In terms of its open-heart surgery services, Sudan is comparatively better than its surrounding countries. However, to adequately cater to its population, it still needs to increase the services provided. Big efforts still have to be made in the primary healthcare sector to try and eradicate rheumatic heart disease which is the main cause of the valvular lesions.

et al ElSayed (2016) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5120000/pdf/cdt-06-S1-S20.pdf

Al-Nilin branch

Based on the critical humanitarian needs in Sudan as a result of the current war, we are considering having the first branch in Khartoum/Sudan, due to the massive urgent need for the services..