fbpx

Ethiopia celebrates 100 years since Catherine was born

On 24 January 2024, our global Hamlin family came together to celebrate what would have been the 100th birthday of Dr Catherine Hamlin, a truly inspirational humanitarian.

Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia led the festivities at the Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital.

They were joined by Catherine’s nieces and nephew, the Board and staff of Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia, international funding partners, patients and students from the Hamlin College of Midwives, alongside local and international dignitaries including the Australia Ambassador for Ethiopia, Julia Nisbett.

There were heartfelt speeches about the impact of Catherine’s unrivalled dedication and pioneering work for Ethiopian women and maternal healthcare. A special memorial service and candle-lighting ceremony were held, followed by tributes from local dignitaries.

A specially commissioned new tribute song to Catherine was performed and a delicious birthday cake was enjoyed by guests.

Catherine’s dedication and selflessness inspires all of us who continue to work towards her vision of a fistula-free Ethiopia.

Visit hamlin.org.au/catherine-song to listen to the beautiful tribute song performed by the Addis Ababa University’s Cultural Department.

More News


  • Happy 100th Birthday, Catherine!

    Our entire global Hamlin family acknowledged Dr Catherine Hamlin’s 100th birthday on On 24 January 2024. ...

  • Giving birth in safe hands

    Kedida is one of the lucky ones. Pregnant with her first child, and recognising the signs of labour, she made her way by public transport to the Watar Hamlin-midwifery clinic. Gadissie, a newly graduated Hamlin Midwife, was there to welcome her. Having completed practical placements in several rural clinics while studying for her BSc Midwifery […]...

  • fistula surgeon

    Dr Leta, fistula surgeon explains the importance of prevention

    Eight years ago, Dr Leta was a student in Gondar University when Dr Catherine Hamlin visited to inaugurate a fistula centre. Her words made a lasting impact on him. “During her speech, Dr Catherine said that to cease the suffering of obstetric fistula patients, you must put yourself in someone else’s shoes. Even then, she […]...

  • Give back this festive season

    As we approach the holiday season, we look forward to celebrating with our families and friends; sharing a festive meal together and reflecting on the blessings of the past year. But families elsewhere in the world do not have as much to be thankful for. When a woman in Ethiopia does not receive the medical […]...