The World Health Organization (WHO), with generous funding from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) and the Government of Ireland, has delivered 24 000 lifesaving dialysis sessions at 19 public hospitals across Lebanon.

The dialysis support package will benefit approximately 500 patients over a 4-month period, ensuring continuity of treatment for individuals with kidney failure amid Lebanon’s ongoing health emergency.

At a press conference held today in Beirut, Minister of Public Health Dr Rakan Nassereldine hailed the support the package afforded Lebanon’s health system. He was joined by WHO Representative in Lebanon Dr Abdinasir Abubakar, humanitarian partners and the directors of the 19 supported public hospitals.

“The valuable donation highlights a noble humanitarian gesture that embodies the highest values of international solidarity and cooperation, particularly as it targets vulnerable patients suffering from chronic kidney disease who require regular and ongoing treatment. The generous donation will help ease the burden on patients and their families,” said Dr Nassereldine.

Noting that in Lebanon an estimated 4500 patients with end-stage kidney failure rely on haemodialysis, typically requiring 13 sessions per month, WHO Representative Dr Abubakar said: “This contribution is more than numbers – it is about safeguarding lives and upholding the right to health, even amidst ongoing emergencies.”