Shalom Health Care, a private limited company, broke ground on a USD 250 million medical equipment manufacturing plant in Hawassa, Ethiopia, last week. The plant, which is expected to be completed in two years, will create 5,000 jobs and help to alleviate the country's reliance on imported medical equipment.

The company’s CEO Dr. Winta Mehari said the plant would produce a wide range of medical equipment, including syringes, needles, IV bags, masks, and gloves. Shalom plans to export its products to East Africa and other parts of the world.

Sidama Regional State’s President Desta Ledamo believes that the factory would be a major boost to Ethiopia's economy. He stated that it would create jobs, generate foreign currency, and help to improve the country's healthcare system.

The plant is being built on a 10-hectare plot of land near Hawassa International Airport. The land was provided by the Sidama Regional Government.

Source (including image): Ethiopian News Agency