Prevent. Care. Include.

Building a healthier, more inclusive future for children and families affected by Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.

About HOPE-SBH

HOPE-SBH is an Ethiopian nonprofit organization working to prevent Neural Tube Defects and improve the quality of life for children and families through prevention, care, support, and advocacy.

We work with families, communities, healthcare professionals, government institutions, and partners to address the challenges associated with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus. Our work focuses on raising public awareness, promoting prevention, improving access to care and support, empowering young people, and advocating for inclusive policies and services.

Through collaboration and community-based action, HOPE-SBH is committed to creating a future where children and families affected by Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus can live with dignity, inclusion, and greater opportunities to thrive.

The Foundation of Our Commitment

Our Vision

A country with a reduced incidence of Neural Tube Defects (NTDs), where children affected by NTDs lead healthy lives with equal opportunities, and maternal health and nutrition are prioritized.

Our Mission

To deliver integrated programs in health, nutrition, rehabilitation, education, protection and advocacy that empower children and families affected by Neural
Tube Defects (NTDs) and promote healthy, resilient communities.

Our Values

Compassion, collaborative integrity, and deep respect for every individual form the core principles driving our mission daily.

We believe that every child deserves a healthy start and a hopeful future.

Empowering Communities, Transforming Lives

Children & Families Supported

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Years of Impact.

People Reached Through Advocacy

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Regions & 2 Chartered cities Reached

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Dedicated Volunteers

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Our programs

Neural Tube Defect Prevention

Promoting folic acid, maternal nutrition, food fortification, and public education to prevent Neural Tube Defects and improve maternal health.

Medical Care & Family Support

Providing medical care, surgeries, rehabilitation, continence support, and family assistance for children living with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.

House of Hope

Raising awareness about Spina Bifida, Hydrocephalus (SBH), maternal health, care, prevention, and disability inclusion through community outreach and public education.

Advocacy & Policy Engagement

Collaborating with government, healthcare professionals, civil society, and partners to strengthen policies, promote food fortification, and improve access to quality healthcare.

Community Awareness

Raising awareness of Spina Bifida, Hydrocephalus, maternal health, prevention, and disability inclusion through community outreach and public education, while promoting early detection and reducing stigma.

Youth & Community Empowerment

Empowering adolescents, caregivers, volunteers, and families through leadership, peer support, life skills, and opportunities for meaningful community participation.

Our Journey

Since our founding in 2017, we have grown with the communities we serve, reaching more families and creating greater impact across Ethiopia.

2017

HOPE-SBH was established in Ethiopia with a commitment to improve the lives of children and families affected by Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus through care, awareness, and advocacy.

2018-2019

Building support for families and children through medical assistance, community awareness, parent support, and efforts to improve access to essential care for children living with SBH.

2020-2021

House of Hope was established, creating a safe place for families traveling long distances to access specialized medical care, while providing accommodation, meals, transportation support, and caregiver education.

2022-2023

Expanding care, continence support, and advocacy, reaching more families while strengthening partnerships, healthcare engagement, community awareness, and support for children and caregivers.

2024 & Beyond

Expanded national advocacy, prevention, care, and partnerships, advancing nutrition, food fortification, youth empowerment, research, and inclusion while reaching more children, families, and communities across Ethiopia.

Recognition and Testimonial

In July 2024, Beza Beshah Haile was invited by Bill Gates to the Goalkeepers 2024 Event, honoring her impactful work in supporting families affected by spina bifida and hydrocephalus. This highlights the global importance of HOPE-SBH’s mission.

Recognition from Bill Gates

Learn more

HOPE-SBH, led by Executive Director Beza Beshah Haile, was honored with the Child-Help Award 2023 for its remarkable dedication to supporting children with spina bifida and hydrocephalus in Ethiopia. Despite limited resources and national challenges, the organization achieved the following in 2023:

- Advocated for food fortification and NTD prevention policies.
- Provided shelter to 182 children and mothers through the House of Hope.
- Distributed 400 shunts and facilitated 253 surgeries.
- Trained 60 parents in physiotherapy and 45 health workers in SBH care.
- Reached over 200 parents with support activities.

Recognition from the Ministry of Health – Ethiopia HOPE-SBH was honored by the Ministry of Health – Ethiopia for its contributions to the 2025 National Birth Defects Week. The recognition acknowledged our vital role in:

- Coordinating Neural Tube Defect Management Initiatives
- Leading Graphics, Design, and Digital Awareness Initiatives
This recognition strengthens our commitment to advancing neural tube defect prevention, care, inclusion, and awareness in Ethiopia.

HOPE-SBH was honored during the closing program of the National Birth Defects Campaign with a Certificate of Recognition and a Crystal Award for its dedication to raising awareness and strengthening community engagement around Neural Tube Defects and Hydrocephalus in Ethiopia.

Beza Haile, Founder and Executive Director of HOPE-SBH, was also recognized for her outstanding contribution to community awareness and promoting early care-seeking for affected children and families.

These recognitions reflect HOPE-SBH’s continued commitment to prevention, advocacy, early care, and support for children and families affected by Neural Tube Defects and Hydrocephalus.

Our Partners

Be Part of Our Mission

Together, we can prevent birth defects and build a brighter future for children and families across Ethiopia.