A Three-Year Odyssey to Success

In the bustling heart of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Yehulushet Medical Center. recently achieved a significant milestone with the installation of two FDV-M09 Sakura sterilizers. This achievement, however, was not just a testament to advanced medical technology but also a story of perseverance, dedication, and overcoming numerous challenges over three long years.

The Wait for Foreign Currency

Our journey began with a three-year wait to secure the necessary foreign currency and open a Letter of Credit (LC). This wait tested our patience and resilience, but our excitement never waned. The moment we informed Sakura about our progress, their excitement mirrored ours. Yet, our elation was short-lived as we encountered unexpected skepticism from Sakura regarding the trustworthiness of our local bank.

Trust Issues and Financial Strains

Despite our efforts to explain and reassure, the first term of the LC lapsed, resulting in a substantial 20% charge on the total order for our customer. The back-and-forth negotiations with Sakura Japan continued, further delaying the process. When Sakura finally began processing the LC, they informed us that delivery would take over six months. This meant extending the LC twice more, each extension attracting another 10% charge per term. The financial burden was unimaginable.

Logistical Challenges Amid a Global Backlog

The delays were compounded by a global backlog of materials, a residual effect from the COVID era. This unforeseen obstacle further tested our resolve, but we remained committed to our goal.
Overcoming Logistical Challenges

After navigating through these financial and trust hurdles, we finally succeeded in getting the sterilizers shipped. However, another surprise awaited us: Ethiopian Airlines charged an exorbitant more than 2 million Ethiopian Birr for the shipment. Despite these challenges, our team at HBL PLC remained steadfast and committed.
The Final Hurdle: Installation

The arrival of the sterilizers marked the beginning of the final, yet equally challenging, phase—installation. The designated rooms for the sterilizers were on the third floor of the clinic’s newly built building. The machines were too large to fit in the elevator, necessitating the use of a crane to lift them to their final destination. This operation required meticulous planning and execution, and our team at HBL PLC oversaw each step with diligence and responsibility.

A Tribute to Professor Guta Zenebe

This project would not have been possible without the patience, dedication, and determination of Professor Guta Zenebe. His unwavering commitment to providing quality healthcare using top-notch products has been an inspiration to all involved. Professor Zenebe’s vision for enhancing healthcare standards in Ethiopia is truly commendable, and we are honored to have partnered with him in this endeavor.

A Triumph of Teamwork and Dedication

The successful installation of the FDV-M09 Sakura sterilizers at Yehulushet Medical Center stands as a testament to our team’s unwavering dedication and meticulous attention to detail. It symbolizes not just a technological upgrade for the clinic but also the triumph of perseverance over numerous obstacles. This achievement enhances the clinic’s capacity to provide top-notch medical care and reinforces HBL PLC’s commitment to advancing healthcare technology in Ethiopia.

The journey was long and fraught with challenges, but the end result—a state-of-the-art sterilization facility—was well worth the effort. We are proud of our team’s hard work and grateful for the trust placed in us by Yehulushet Medical Center. Together, we have made a significant stride towards improving healthcare standards in Ethiopia.