Do you have questions?

+39 0376 920464

Euro
Select Payment Method
Personal Info

Credit Card Info
This is a secure SSL encrypted payment.

Donation Total: $10.00

COOPERATIVE SOCIAL EMERGENCY TRANSPORT POBIC

Category Open Heart

April 26

Ghana: Pobic Mission's First Step to Combat Rheumatic Heart Disease

Ghana: Pobic’s First Step in the Mission to Combat Rheumatic Heart Disease Mission to Ghana: A Strategic Meeting for Public Health Between March 21 and 23, 2025, a Pobic delegation took its first official steps in Ghana. President Paolo Novellini and Festus Adedayo traveled to the capital, Accra, for a series of strategic institutional meetings, laying the groundwork for a new collaboration in the field of rheumatic heart disease prevention. During the mission, Pobic engaged directly with representatives of Ghana’s Ministry of Health and with the medical team at the National Cardiothoracic Center, the country’s leading cardiac hospital. A particularly significant meeting was held with the director of cardiac surgery, Dr. (Med) Kow Entsua-Mensah, a leading figure in Ghana’s healthcare system. Humanitarian Aid: A Concrete Response to Local Needs During the working sessions, there was extensive discussion of the state of cardiac surgery in the country, but above all of the need to develop a joint strategy to address an often-underestimated problem: rheumatic heart disease, which in Ghana particularly affects children between the ages of 3 and 14. The main request made to Pobic was clear: to help develop a screening protocol to measure the prevalence of rheumatic heart disease in the pediatric population. This is a crucial step not only toward understanding the disease’s actual impact at the national level but also toward enabling Ghana to share data and strategies with other countries on the African continent, with a view toward broader health cooperation. Rheumatic Diseases in Africa: A Widespread and Neglected Problem The collection of this data will, in fact, serve a dual purpose: on the one hand, it will provide Ghanaian authorities with a concrete tool for planning prevention and treatment interventions; on the other, it will enable Ghana to fully participate in international initiatives aimed at eradicating rheumatic fever in sub-Saharan Africa. The March mission is therefore only the first step. But it is already clear that the humanitarian aid Pobic will provide in Ghana will not be limited to occasional interventions: it will be based on solid scientific foundations, with the goal of developing projects for prevention, early diagnosis, and long-term support. THANKS TO YOUR SUPPORT, WE SAVE THE LIVES OF DOZENS OF CHILDREN EVERY YEAR. HELP US DO EVEN MORE. Countries 0 Children operated on 0 Children examined 0 +

READ MORE

April 14

Open Heart Uganda Project: How Sonia Came Back to Life Thanks to an Extraordinary Surgery

Open Heart Uganda Project: How Sonia Got a New Lease on Life Thanks to an Extraordinary Surgery Thanks to Pobic’s Open Heart program and the excellence of Italian cardiac surgery, a young African girl suffering from a severe congenital heart defect has been given a second chance at life. A true story of hope, difficult choices, and a life saved. In Africa, every year thousands of children born with severe heart defects lack access to adequate care. But every now and then, thanks to the courage of families, Italian medical excellence, and the support of donors, a small miracle happens. Such is the case of Sonia, a 15-year-old girl with a very severe congenital heart defect, who is alive today thanks to pediatric heart surgery made possible by Pobic through the Open Heart program. A Diagnosis with No Appeal: Only a Few Months to Live During a medical screening in Uganda, organized by Pobic last January, doctors identified seven children in critical condition. Among them, Sonia stood out not only because of the severity of her condition but also because she was visibly older than the others.   She had already turned 15, and according to the doctors, she had only a few months to live if she did not undergo emergency surgery. Her progressive heart condition would have led to her death by the age of 16. Yet Sonia continued to attend school, dreaming of being included in the Open Heart program, which brings children with heart disease to Italy for surgery. A High-Risk Procedure Among the severe cases, Sonia was the one with the least time left, but also the one with the highest surgical risk. Italian cardiac surgeon Dr. Giancarlo Michielon (Gaslini Hospital in Genoa), one of the world’s leading experts in pediatric cardiac surgery, confirmed that the operation was possible, but with a 50% risk of death.    In addition to the risk to her life, there was a 70% probability that the girl would emerge from surgery with a permanent pacemaker or with neurological disabilities caused by potential complications.   The costs of the operation were also significantly higher than for other procedures, due to its complexity and the specialized expertise required. The Choice Between Courage and Life The decision was not an easy one. It fell to Pobic’s President, Paolo, to assume the moral and operational responsibility of giving Sonia a chance. With great determination, Pobic launched an extraordinary fundraising campaign and organized her transfer to Italy. Sonia’s family—her mother, father, and two little sisters—knowingly agreed to take this risk. Because there was no other way to save this young girl’s life. The Miracle of Italian Cardiac Surgery The surgery was scheduled at the Gaslini Hospital in Genoa, a center of absolute excellence in the care of children with congenital heart defects. The surgery exceeded even the best expectations: no cardiac arrest, no pacemaker, no neurological damage. Sonia’s heart was reconstructed. Today, she can lead a normal life. A new heart has given her back her future. Why Support Pobic’s Open Heart Program Every story like Sonia’s is the result of a concrete partnership between world-class medical expertise and genuine humanitarian support. Pobic’s Open Heart program identifies, selects, and performs surgery on children and adolescents with severe heart conditions who would have no chance of treatment in their home countries. Thanks to donations, Pobic is able to fund travel, surgeries, and hospital stays, saving lives that would otherwise be lost. Sonia’s story proves that donating truly saves a child’s life. THANKS TO YOUR SUPPORT, WE SAVE THE LIVES OF DOZENS OF CHILDREN EVERY YEAR. HELP US DO EVEN MORE. Countries 0 Children operated on 0 Children examined 0 +

READ MORE

April 2nd

Pobic ODV and Med Action Together for the Children of the Horn of Africa

POBIC and Med Action Join Forces for the Children of the Horn of Africa Padua, Thursday, March 27, 2025 – A date to remember. Two organizations, one great goal: to build a more just future, where every child, no matter where they were born, has the right to receive care and protection. A memorandum of understanding has been signed between POBIC and Med.Action, two Italian organizations that have been active for years in international health cooperation. Together, they are joining forces, expertise, and vision to ensure free, high-quality care for children in the Horn of Africa, one of the most vulnerable regions on the planet. A small gesture here can change a life far away. These words sum up the spirit of the meeting between Paolo Novellini, president of POBIC, and Ada Caraffini, director of the organization, along with representatives from Med.Action: Professor Giovanni Stellin, president; Walter Cadorin, vice president; and Walter Cendron, head of project and event management. The shared goal is to offer free healthcare to those who currently lack access even to basic services, facilitating life-saving interventions for children with heart conditions and promoting a model of concrete solidarity. Why This Project Is Important In the Horn of Africa, thousands of children live with medical conditions that, in other contexts, would be treated promptly. The lack of adequate hospitals, the shortage of trained medical personnel, and economic hardships make access to care nearly impossible.   POBIC, an NGO with over 30 years of experience in humanitarian projects in Africa, and Med.Action, composed of medical professionals engaged in volunteer healthcare work, aim to address this emergency. It is not just a matter of medicine. It is a matter of justice. The pillars of the agreement: Solidarity—Pooling expertise, energy, and resources to help the most vulnerable communities. Access to healthcare services—Ensuring free, high-quality care by overcoming economic and geographic inequalities.   Cooperation among Italian NGOs: Joining forces to multiply our impact and reach where the need is greatest. How to Contribute This project needs everyone’s support. Here’s how each of us can make a difference: Donate: Even a small contribution can provide a medical exam, a diagnosis, or a life-saving procedure.   Become a volunteer: doctors, nurses, logistics specialists, communications professionals… everyone can contribute their time and skills. Share: talk about it with others, spread the word about the project, and raise awareness about what’s happening in the Horn of Africa.     Through this agreement, POBIC and Med.Action aim to strengthen their response in the most complex contexts, addressing the health crisis in Africa with concrete, measurable, and sustainable actions. A possible future, a present to be built The agreement signed on March 27 is more than just a document.  It is a real commitment, grounded in experience and the determination to leave no child behind.   THANKS TO YOUR SUPPORT, WE SAVE THE LIVES OF DOZENS OF CHILDREN EVERY YEAR. HELP US DO EVEN MORE. Countries 0 Children operated on 0 Children examined 0 +

READ MORE

March 26

A Heart for Nigeria – Historic agreement signed with UCH of Ibadan

A Heart for Nigeria – Historic Agreement Signed with UCH in Ibadan Some milestones don’t happen overnight. They follow the slow, steady rhythm of things that grow with care, step by step. And there are signatures that, when set on paper, carry the weight of milestones in a project’s history. Today, March 17, is one of those days. The memorandum of understanding between POBIC and UCH in Ibadan—Nigeria’s leading university hospital—is now a reality. A five-year collaboration agreement in the field of pediatric cardiac surgery, signed in the presence of POBIC President Paolo Novellini, Dr. Festus Adedayo, and Nigerian health authorities, Prof. Jesse Abiodun Otegbayo, Director General of UCH, and Prof. Olubukola Adeponle Adesina, Chair of the Medical Advisory Committee. But this is not just a news item. It is the culmination of a story that began a long time ago. The First Steps on a Long Journey It all began in 2016, with POBIC’s first missions to Nigeria. On those early, courageous expeditions, Italian medical teams left Italy to operate on children with congenital heart defects in extremely challenging healthcare settings. These were exploratory missions, full of unknowns, but driven by one certainty: every child saved was worth the journey. The University Teaching Hospital in Enugu was the first partner hospital. From there, over time, stable partnerships developed with facilities such as the Federal Medical Center in Yenagoa and the Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital in Okolobiri. Surgeries, training sessions, workshops, volunteers, departures, returns: the engine of solidarity has never stopped. LONG-DISTANCE ADOPTION: A Heart Across the Sea When heart conditions were too complex to be treated in Nigeria, POBIC took charge of transferring the young patients to Italy, to the Gaslini Institute in Genoa. Thus, over the years, Michael, Yusuf, Jesse, Daniel, Treasure, Salim, Diane, Jed, Simon, Aleeson, and many others crossed the sea to receive a second chance. The long-distance sponsorship program was created precisely to accompany them over time, ensuring not only medical care but also educational continuity and family support. Because, after all, healing also means being able to grow. A welcoming home, a needle that sews Meanwhile, in Yenagoa, Casa POBIC was established: a facility where care, protection, and education intertwine. Here, young women who have been victims of violence or marginalization receive support, a welcoming environment, and above all, the tools to reclaim their lives. Among these, the most precious is autonomy.   The tailoring training program has become a symbol of redemption. In this land, sewing is not just a trade: it is art, dignity, and independence. It is the thread with which a new life is sewn together. Recognition from Institutions All of this has caught the attention of Nigerian authorities. The Minister of Health wrote to the Italian government, praising POBIC’s work and requesting that the project continue and be strengthened. READ ABOUT POBIC’S JOURNEY IN NIGERIA YEAR BY YEAR The Governor of Bayelsa State has also officially recognized the value of the work carried out, describing the initiative as a virtuous example of cooperation among peoples. The Day We’ve Been Waiting For And here we are today. After years of work on the ground, POBIC has signed an agreement with UCH in Ibadan, one of Nigeria’s most prestigious hospitals.   This is not just a formal act: it is a mutual promise. A shared vision aimed at creating a functional, stable, and educational pediatric cardiac surgery unit capable of restoring health and a future to hundreds of children. A project that now has deeper roots and broader horizons. This signing does not close a chapter. It opens one. It confirms that every child saved so far was not an isolated act, but part of a greater mission. And today, that heart that beat strongly in Enugu, Genoa, and Yenagoa is beginning to beat in Ibadan as well. The future has only just begun. THANKS TO YOUR SUPPORT, WE SAVE THE LIVES OF DOZENS OF CHILDREN EVERY YEAR. HELP US DO EVEN MORE. Countries 0 Children operated on 0 Children examined 0 +

READ MORE

March 12

Mission for Life: How the Hearts of African Children Beat Again

Mission for Life: How the Hearts of African Children Start Beating Again This problem, which affects thousands of children every year, seems almost impossible to solve. However, we at POBIC do not let ourselves be discouraged by such enormous challenges. We are constantly working to ensure that African children with heart disease receive medical care. We are active in Africa to ensure that children with heart disease receive the medical care they need. We operate in numerous African countries and are committed not only to providing medical interventions but also to training local medical staff to ensure the sustainability of our projects. Our work takes place in a context where medical resources are limited, and specialized expertise is often entirely lacking. The challenge we face is enormous. In sub-Saharan Africa, heart disease is one of the leading causes of death among children. According to the World Health Organization, more than 300,000 African children are born each year with a congenital heart defect, and only a small percentage of them are able to access the care they need. Our efforts, therefore, are essential to saving these children’s lives and ensuring they have a future. Stories of Change and Hope Keita’s Story: Keita is a 10-year-old boy living in Mali. Due to a heart condition, Keita has always had health problems and struggled with daily activities. Thanks to our efforts, Keita was able to receive the medical care he needed and can now lead a normal life. Our Work in Burkina Faso: In Burkina Faso, we have implemented a training program for local medical staff. Thanks to this project, Burkinabé doctors can now diagnose and treat heart disease in children, ensuring a better future for them. The project in Senegal: In Senegal, we have implemented a heart disease prevention program, which includes health education for mothers and vaccinations against diseases that can cause heart problems. Thanks to this project, many Senegalese children can now grow up healthy and strong. SPONSOR A CHILD Solidarity and Collective Commitment Unity is Strength We could not fulfill our mission without the support of many individuals and partner organizations. Every donation, regardless of the amount, helps save the life of an African child. Training as a Tool for Change One of the most important aspects of our work is training local medical staff. This not only helps save lives in the short term but also ensures the long-term sustainability of medical care. The Power of Prevention We are committed not only to treating but also to preventing heart disease in African children. This translates into educational and vaccination programs that help prevent the onset of these diseases. The Importance of Listening We place great emphasis on listening to local communities and understanding their needs. This approach, based on mutual respect and understanding, is fundamental to the success of our missions. The challenge we face is enormous. In sub-Saharan Africa, heart disease is one of the leading causes of death among children. According to the World Health Organization, more than 300,000 African children are born each year with a congenital heart defect, and only a small percentage of them are able to access the care they need. Our work, therefore, is essential to saving these children’s lives and ensuring they have a future. What does our concrete commitment look like “on the ground”? African children are at the heart of our work. Our medical missions include the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of children with heart disease. These missions represent hope for thousands of families who, otherwise, would not have access to the medical care they need. However, our work is not limited to medical care alone. In fact, it is complemented by significant psychological support for the families of sick children. In addition, we carry out important preventive work through vaccination and health education programs. Our work is carried out with great compassion and respect for local cultures and traditions. This approach allows us to build a relationship of trust with local communities and to work together to improve children’s health. Finally, it is important to emphasize that our work is made possible thanks to the commitment of many volunteers and donors. Without them, none of this would be possible. Conclusions In conclusion, our work represents a beacon of hope for thousands of African children suffering from heart disease. Despite the enormous challenges, we continue to work every day to ensure these children receive the medical care they need and to train local medical staff, thereby ensuring a better future for Africa. Please support our important work. Together, we can make a difference. THANKS TO YOUR SUPPORT, WE SAVE THE LIVES OF DOZENS OF CHILDREN EVERY YEAR. HELP US DO EVEN MORE. Countries 0 Children operated on 0 Children examined 0 +

READ MORE

January 14

The Stories of Tehila and Joshua: A Journey of Hope from Nigeria to Italy

The Stories of Tehila and Joshua: A Journey of Hope from Nigeria to Italy In Nigeria, a country rich in culture and resources but marked by deep inequalities, childhood can be a daily challenge. For children with disabilities or complex medical conditions, like Tehila and Joshua, these challenges become even more daunting.   Tehila: A Smile Despite the Hardships Tehila is a 7-year-old girl born in a rural village in southern Nigeria. Since birth, she has lived with Down syndrome, a genetic condition that, in a context like Nigeria’s, presents additional obstacles. In many communities, disability is often misunderstood, leading to stigma and social isolation. Limited resources and a lack of adequate facilities make it difficult to access medical care and specialized educational programs. Despite these challenges, Tehila has shown extraordinary resilience. Her infectious smile and innate curiosity have made her beloved by her family and everyone she meets. However, a congenital heart defect seriously threatened her health and her future. In a country where healthcare is often inaccessible to low-income families, Tehila’s hopes seemed to be fading. SPONSOR A CHILD: Joshua—A Brave Heart in Search of Healing Joshua, 8, comes from an urban community in the Niger Delta region. His childhood has been marked by a heart defect that prevented him from participating in activities typical for children his age. In Nigeria, access to specialized care is limited, and families often face prohibitive costs for life-saving medical treatments. Despite their financial difficulties, Joshua’s family desperately sought a solution to his heart condition, fearing for his life and his future. A Bridge of Hope: From Africa to Europe Tehila and Joshua’s stories took a positive turn thanks to the intervention of the POBIC association and the “Open Heart” project. This program aims to identify children with congenital heart defects in countries with fragile healthcare systems, offering them the opportunity to receive appropriate care. For Tehila and Joshua, this meant a trip to Italy, where they were welcomed and underwent surgery at the Gaslini Hospital in Genoa, a state-of-the-art facility for the treatment of pediatric diseases. Moving to a foreign country, encountering a new culture, and undergoing complex surgeries were moments that required great courage for both children. Having their mothers by their sides throughout this journey was essential, providing emotional support and unconditional love. A Bright Future on the Horizon Following their surgeries, both Tehila and Joshua have shown remarkable progress. Tehila, with her lively spirit, has begun to explore the world with renewed energy, while Joshua dreams of returning to play soccer with his friends, free from the limitations that have held him back until now. The success of their surgeries not only improves their quality of life but also serves as a message of hope for many other families in similar situations. The Crucial Role of Community Support Tehila and Joshua’s experiences remind us that, despite the difficulties, every child deserves a chance at a healthy and happy future. We invite everyone to support projects like “Open Heart” and the POBIC association, so they can continue to offer hope and care to many other children around the world. Active participation and community support are essential to ensuring that stories like those of Tehila and Joshua can be repeated, transforming lives and building bridges of global solidarity. DONATE NOW / ADOPT NOW A Call to Action Following their surgeries, both Tehila and Joshua have shown remarkable progress. Tehila, with her lively spirit, has begun to explore the world with renewed energy, while Joshua dreams of returning to play soccer with his friends, free from the limitations that have held him back until now. The success of their surgeries not only improves their quality of life but also serves as a message of hope for many other families in similar situations. Where the surgeries were performed The children will undergo surgery at the Gaslini Hospital in Genoa.   The hospital has been collaborating with the Open Heart project for many years and has helped us save dozens and dozens of children. Over the years, more than 60 children have been saved from death thanks to this program, and the Giannina Gaslini Hospital in Genoa is on the front lines with us to ensure these young lives are not lost.   Here is the hospital’s official website. https://www.gaslini.org/ Here are some questions you might be asking How will the donations be used? Every euro donated will go directly toward Ariella’s surgical needs. Our NGO operates with the utmost financial transparency, ensuring that every contribution has a direct impact on their lives.   Who selects the recipients of the surgeries? The recipients—in this case, Jernita Ariella and Mary—are selected based on medical criteria and need. We’ve been collaborating with the doctors at Gaslini for years to ensure that resources go to those who need them most urgently. And by urgent, we mean life-threatening. Can I trust that the donations will be used properly? Absolutely. Every transaction is tracked, and every financial detail will be made available to anyone who wishes to have further information. POBIC has been operating in the nonprofit sector for over 30 years and considers honesty one of its core values. Check out all our TRANSPARENCY DOCUMENTS on the website What is your track record in handling cases like these? We have a long history of success in providing life-saving care to children in similar situations. The success stories of the children we’ve helped are tangible proof of our commitment. Take a look at our work in Nigeria What happens if you don’t reach your fundraising goal? Even if we don’t reach the full goal, every donation brings us closer to our mission. Every euro counts and will help ensure a better future.   Can I make a donation even if I can’t give much? Absolutely! Every donation, regardless of the amount, makes a difference. Even small contributions can make a difference. Many

READ MORE

December 6th

A life-changing gift: remote adoption for Christmas

A Gift That Changes Lives: Long-Distance Sponsorship for Christmas A special gesture that brings hope, happiness, and a future to those who need it most. At a time like Christmas, when we’re inundated with material possessions, giving the gift of long-distance sponsorship can be the most meaningful gift of all. It’s a way to give the holidays deep meaning, transforming an act of generosity into a real opportunity for change. This kind of gift is more than just symbolic; it represents a genuine investment in the lives of those who, without this help, would not have access to education, medical care, or decent living conditions. Supporting a child in need means offering hope, a future, and peace of mind—an act that warms the heart of the recipient and enriches the giver. Giving the gift of a long-distance sponsorship is a symbol of sharing and humanity, perfect for embracing the true spirit of Christmas. https://youtu.be/TjU5Bzg0eBc The Tangible Impact of Long-Distance Sponsorship Long-distance sponsorship is not just financial aid: it is the beginning of a journey that can radically change a child’s life. The data speaks for itself: according to research published in the journal Science Daily, children supported through these programs are 40% more likely to complete high school and 50–80% more likely to complete college. These gains also translate into future employment, with a 35% increase in the likelihood of securing stable employment. In addition to education, funds raised through long-distance sponsorship ensure access to essential medical care, clean water, and nutritious food. Every contribution not only improves the life of the individual child but also has positive effects on their families and communities, fostering long-term sustainable development. A Mutual Gift That Builds Bonds Long-distance sponsorship isn’t just about donating material resources. It’s a gesture that creates a unique bond between the giver and the recipient. Through letters, updates, and little drawings, you can follow the progress of the child you’re helping, making this experience deeply rewarding. It’s a relationship that enriches both parties: while the child receives vital support, the sponsor discovers a new dimension of empathy and solidarity.  https://youtu.be/A50pNFikpyo Long-Distance Sponsorships with Pobic This year, choose to make a difference with a gesture that will last over time.  Giving the gift of a long-distance sponsorship—or becoming a sponsor yourself—means turning the holiday season into an opportunity for real change. Every small contribution is a step toward a more just world, where every child can have access to fundamental rights such as education, health, and happiness.  Contact the NGO Pobic to find out how to sponsor a child and turn your generosity into tangible change. Every small contribution is a big step toward a more just world. Offer hope and happiness to those who need it most, giving them a truly unforgettable Christmas. THANKS TO YOUR SUPPORT, WE SAVE THE LIVES OF DOZENS OF CHILDREN EVERY YEAR. HELP US DO EVEN MORE. Countries 0 Children operated on 0 Children examined 0 +

READ MORE

October 16

Operation Open Heart: The Mission in Uganda to Save the Lives of Children with Congenital Heart Disease

Operation Open Heart: The Mission in Uganda to Save the Lives of Children with Congenital Heart Defects In the heart of Africa, a mission aimed at saving the lives of young children is making a difference. The international NGO POBIC has launched the “Open Heart” project in Uganda, an initiative that aims to give children with severe congenital heart defects—whose lives are at risk without surgery—a chance at life. In September, our president, Paolo Novellini, traveled to Uganda for a crucial meeting: the event was an extraordinary success and offers new hope to dozens of young patients. Uganda as a New Frontier: The “Open Heart” Challenge The “Open Heart” project has its roots in Nigeria, where it has changed the fate of many children. However, it is in Uganda that the mission has found new momentum. A country plagued by severe healthcare shortages, Uganda now welcomes the project as a true revolution in public health. The hope of giving these children a second chance is becoming increasingly tangible, thanks in part to the commitment of the local population. THANKS TO YOUR SUPPORT, WE SAVE THE LIVES OF DOZENS OF CHILDREN EVERY YEAR. HELP US DO EVEN MORE. Countries 0 Children operated on 0 Children examined 0 + A Crucial Meeting: Support from the Ugandan Minister of Health The September meeting between Paolo Novellini and the Ugandan Minister of Health represents a milestone for the project. In a context where every surgery is literally a matter of life and death, government support is essential to ensure the continuity of our operations. In Uganda, we have already operated on three children, but there are still 56 others awaiting surgery. Their lives hang by a thread, and with each passing day, the urgency for concrete action grows. An Extraordinary Response: The Minister Promises Support During the meeting, the Minister of Health expressed enthusiasm for the project and pledged full support for this humanitarian mission. He acknowledged the positive impact of Open Heart and assured that he would bring the matter before Parliament to secure the necessary institutional support. This support could mark a decisive turning point for the project, bringing in new resources and enabling us to reach an ever-increasing number of children. Open Heart’s Future in Uganda Also Depends on Long-Distance Sponsorships Pobic has not limited itself to giving the children who underwent surgery a new medical lease on life. Over time, it has come to realize that it was also necessary to give them a new lease on life from an economic standpoint. There are many reasons for this: the need to face a life that will require medical exams and treatment; the need for a life where they can receive an education; and the need to recognize that health isn’t just about a healthy heart, but about having real opportunities to build a future for themselves. That is why the SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM is essential for POBIC. LEARN MORE HERE. The Future of Open Heart in Uganda: A Race Against Time for the Lives of 56 Children Every single child who undergoes surgery represents a story of hope and a victory for life. However, the waiting list is long, and time is a luxury that many of these young patients do not have. Thanks to the enthusiasm shown by the Minister, we now have the opportunity to accelerate the project, but our work does not stop here. Every surgery requires funds, resources, and, above all, the support of those who believe in our mission. Three Ugandan girls have already undergone surgery in 2024. Their lives have been saved. At the same time, the screening process identified a total of 59 children who were found to be in urgent need of surgery. The support of the Ugandan government will be a crucial step in saving their lives. You can help us save their lives by filling out the form below. Just 5 euros is enough to save their lives. HELP US DO EVEN MORE Every donation is essential to us. YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE, TOO

READ MORE

September 26

How Artificial Intelligence Can Transform Healthcare in Africa

How Artificial Intelligence Can Transform Healthcare in Africa In Africa, technology and AI are emerging as powerful tools for addressing the continent’s healthcare challenges. Technology is reshaping the world of medicine, modernizing the healthcare sector, and making services more accessible, efficient, and patient-centered. Among the most talked-about innovations is artificial intelligence, which is also poised to lead a potential revolution in the medical field. However, it is imperative to ensure that the benefits of these innovations reach every corner of the globe, especially in Africa and low-income countries. In the meantime, watch the video below in which we welcome the last three Ugandan girls who underwent surgery in Italy https://youtu.be/TjU5Bzg0eBc The Role of AI in African Innovation In recent years, there has been a boom in the use of AI to solve healthcare problems on the African continent. This ranges from data management in Morocco to genome sequencing in South Africa, from medical image analysis in Ghana to COVID-19 monitoring in Ethiopia.   For example, in Mozambique, healthcare workers have been testing the use of portable X-ray machines connected to an AI program to diagnose tuberculosis in less than five minutes, with accuracy comparable to that of doctors.         The Science for Africa Foundation (SFA Foundation) has announced $2.4 million in funding to promote the equitable use of AI to improve the health and lives of Africans. This investment aims to support African researchers and innovators, enabling them to drive change with local and sustainable solutions. The innovation also offers a solution to the shortage of doctors and qualified healthcare workers in Africa. Many countries on the continent are seeing their healthcare professionals emigrate to wealthier nations. “One of the greatest benefits of AI in Africa is helping healthcare workers do more with limited resources,” said Ayomide Owoyemi, an expert in public health and technology at the University of Illinois, USA, in an interview.   “AI can support less-qualified healthcare workers who provide basic healthcare, which is essential for addressing the ongoing loss of doctors.” https://youtu.be/A50pNFikpyo Pobic’s Technologies in Africa Our organization also leverages technology to improve community health in Africa. Pobic is committed to providing essential health services and uses innovative tools to address local challenges. A community-based approach is crucial to ensuring that health solutions are sustainable and meet the specific needs of local populations.    Through the Ozone Therapy project, we use new equipment to treat Buruli ulcer and other tropical sores and ulcers, avoiding the practice of “surgical curettage”; in addition to our commitment to reducing complications resulting from scar tissue and functional impairment in patients. Through the Open Heart program, we identify boys and girls in Africa and Eastern European countries suffering from severe heart conditions who require targeted cardiac surgery. Investments and Challenges for Artificial Intelligence in Africa Limited infrastructure poses a significant challenge for the implementation of AI-based healthcare programs in Africa. Many areas of the continent lack the reliable electricity or internet access necessary to support large-scale AI projects. Furthermore, most machine learning algorithms are trained on datasets from outside Africa, limiting their effectiveness in the local context. Fortunately, there are ongoing programs at African universities and private companies that are collecting local health data to train models specific to the region.    “In the future, healthcare will become increasingly digital, and AI in Africa will be a key tool for moving in this direction,” explained Rebecca Distler of the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation. THANKS TO YOUR SUPPORT, WE SAVE THE LIVES OF DOZENS OF CHILDREN EVERY YEAR. HELP US DO EVEN MORE. Countries 0 Children operated on 0 Children examined 0 +

READ MORE

August 29

Women's Conditions in Africa: Challenges and Progress

The Status of Women in Africa: Challenges and Progress The status of women in Africa is a topic of great importance and complexity. This article explores the various challenges that African women face on a daily basis, as well as the progress made in certain areas thanks to local and international initiatives. (Watch the video and learn about one of POBIC’s projects dedicated to women) Major Challenges for Women in Africa Access to Education Access to education is one of the main obstacles for women in many parts of Africa. According to UNESCO, approximately 52 million school-age girls are not attending school. This problem is exacerbated by cultural, economic, and geographic factors. Gender-Based Violence Gender-based violence is a devastating reality for many African women. WHO studies indicate that 45% of African women have experienced physical or sexual violence. This issue is often underestimated due to a lack of reporting and social norms that perpetuate silence. Health and Healthcare Services Access to healthcare services is critical for women, especially during pregnancy and childbirth. In many rural areas, the lack of adequate facilities and qualified medical personnel leads to extremely high maternal mortality rates. African women are also vulnerable to diseases such as HIV/AIDS, which have a devastating impact on their lives and communities. THANKS TO YOUR SUPPORT, WE SAVE THE LIVES OF DOZENS OF CHILDREN EVERY YEAR. HELP US DO EVEN MORE. Countries 0 Children operated on 0 Children examined 0 + The Status of Women in Africa: Progress and Initiatives Economic Empowerment In recent years, various initiatives have aimed to improve the economic conditions of African women. The Pobic organization, through its “Pobic for Women” program, provides support to all women via shelters located around the world. Through this project, it creates employment opportunities through social activities—such as micro-sewing workshops—thereby promoting economic independence and reducing poverty. Education and Training Numerous educational programs are helping to improve access to education for girls. The “Pobic for Women” project provides 60 hours of training and work guided by an in-house team, enabling thousands of women to access quality education and increasing their future opportunities. Health and Well-being Pobic works to improve access to health services in rural areas. Over 200 women have been examined, and a quarter of them have received treatment and diagnostic tests. These initiatives support the training of local midwives, the construction of clinics, and the distribution of essential medicines. The Role of Government Policies in Improving the Status of Women in Africa Government policies are crucial for improving the status of women in Africa. Several African countries have adopted laws and policies aimed at protecting women’s rights and promoting gender equality. However, the effective implementation of these laws remains a challenge. Legislation on Gender-Based Violence Countries such as South Africa and Rwanda have enacted strict laws against gender-based violence. These laws aim to provide legal protection to victims and punish perpetrators. The effectiveness of such laws depends on their strict enforcement and community awareness. Rural Development Programs Rural development programs aim to improve living conditions in remote areas, where women face the greatest challenges. These programs include infrastructure development, access to health and educational services, and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices. STATISTICS Here are some relevant facts: According to the World Bank, in 2019, women accounted for 49.6% of the world’s population, with a similar proportion in Africa. The UNDP’s Gender Inequality Index combines three parameters: inequality in health, labor market participation, and empowerment. These parameters are defined based on various indicators such as the maternal mortality rate, the adolescent fertility rate, the number of female members of parliament, and the proportion of the population with at least a secondary education. The composite gender inequality index ranges from zero to one: the higher the value, the greater the level of gender inequality. 63% of women forced to live in extreme poverty are in Sub-Saharan Africa. Gender inequality costs, on average, $95 billion per year. These statistics demonstrate that gender inequalities represent a significant problem that affects the lives of many women on the continent and the African economy. Solutions to Improve the Protection of Women in Africa The conditions facing women in Africa are influenced by multiple factors that require an integrated, multisectoral approach. Although the challenges are enormous, the progress made in recent years shows that change is possible. Education, economic empowerment, access to healthcare, and government policies play a crucial role in improving the lives of African women. Pobic is constantly committed to taking action by providing assistance and a visible presence through concrete projects aimed at improving lives in the areas most in need. The Open Heart humanitarian project identifies those who require cardiac surgery due to heart conditions, offering tangible help to African women by protecting the lives of their children. Continuing to support and develop these initiatives is essential to building a more equitable and prosperous future for all women on the continent. HELP US DO EVEN MORE Every donation is vital to us. YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE, TOO

READ MORE