Top Pediatric Nephrologists in Ethiopia 

Pediatric kidney diseases in Ethiopia pose a significant problem. According to studies, Acute Kidney Disease, or AKD, is one of the major health problems that children suffer from. Some of the major reasons for the prevalence of this disease are infections, shock, hypertension, and nephrotoxic medications that are toxic and cause damage to kidneys. Besides AKD, urinary infections, Chronic Kidney Disease, and glomerulonephritis (swelling of the kidney’s filtering part) are other common conditions that children deal with. 

Ethiopia has several accomplished pediatric kidney nephrologists who work diligently to treat these conditions in children. The top kidney specialists have wide experience in the management of these diseases in neonates and children. They are skilled in performing kidney biopsies, transplants, and renal replacement therapies. Many of them are experts in treating kidney disorders that children inherit, including genetic syndromes. The top pediatric nephrologists work in major hospitals in Addis Ababa, such as Girium Hospital, St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa University, and Jimma University. The kidney specialists for children mentioned below are actively working to improve the current state of the field and to boost people’s awareness of kidney conditions. 

Profiles of  The Best Pediatric Kidney Specialists 

1. Dr. Yemisrach Mekonnen – Dr. Yemisrach Mekonnen is a top pediatric nephrologist in Ethiopia who works at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College in Addis Ababa. She is the Academic vice at the Department of Pediatrics and unit and also leads the pediatric nephrology department. Through her research works, Dr. Mekonnen has contributed significantly in enhancing her field. Her 11 studies show her insights on fluid and electrolyte management, renal replacement therapy, and Acute Kidney Injury. 
2. Dr. Bezaye Abebe – Dr. Abebe is a pediatric kidney specialist at Addis Ababa University. Besides being a nephrology doctor, she is a medical educator and research fellow enrolled in the Medical Education Partnership Initiative. Dr. Bezaye Abebe has been working with pediatric kidney patients in a resource-limited setting for several years. She has vast experience in areas like chronic renal failure, Acute Kidney Disease, renal replacement therapy, dialysis, and renal disease in newborns and children. 
3. Dr. Wuhib Zenebe – Dr. Zenebe is a leading pediatric nephrologist in Addis Ababa. He works at Girium Hospital and has extensive experience in treating kidney disorders. in neonates. He provides diagnostic and treatment services for pediatric patients with Nephrotic syndrome, Glomerular conditions, rare tubular disorders, chronic and acute kidney injuries. His experience spans to kidney transplant care for children in Ethiopia. 
4. Dr. Simegnew Tamene – Dr. Tamene works as a pediatric kidney doctor at the Jimma University Medical Center in Addis Ababa. He specializes in the management of glomerulonephritis, which is damage to the part of the kidneys that filter toxins. Besides, he is an expert in diagnosing and treating kidney infections, Acute Kidney Disease, urinary tract infections, and Nephrotic syndrome. 
5. Professor Damte Shimelis – Professor Damte Shimelis is a highly experienced kidney specialist for children in Ethiopia. He works as the head of the Department of Pediatrics and Child Health at Addis Ababa University or Tinkur Anbessa Hospital. Professor Shimelis is also the editor-in-chief of the Ethiopian Journal of Pediatrics and Child Health. As a researcher, teacher, and doctor, he has a wealth of experience and knowledge of pediatric kidney ailments like Acute Kidney Disease, kidney infections, glomerulonephritis, and hereditary diseases. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many nephrologists are there in Ethiopia?
As of 2024, there are a little over 34 nephrologists in Ethiopia. Some of them are trainees, while others have been trained abroad and locally. A majority of pediatric kidney specialists can be found in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia.
2. What is the role of a pediatric nephrologist?
A pediatric nephrologist diagnoses and manages many conditions affecting the kidney and urinary tract. These include kidney failure, high blood pressure, and genetic kidney diseases. Other common conditions treated by the specialist include kidney stones, urinary tract infections.
3. What is the average cost of pediatric nephrology treatment in Ethiopia?
The average cost of hemodialysis in Ethiopia is $4,455, while that of a kidney transplant is $19,730. $8,880 is the cost of treating a kidney tumor.