On October 1, 2026, a day of awareness on the importance of organ donation was held in Nabeul, Tunisia. The event aimed to educate the public about the significance of organ donation and the legal and medical procedures involved. The initiative was organized to promote a culture of giving in Tunisian society. The event was attended by various stakeholders, including security personnel, police officers, and citizens.

According to Buthaina Zenad, National Coordinator at the National Center for Organ Transplantation, the number of registered organ donors on national identity cards has reached 17,000. Although this number has been steadily increasing compared to previous years, it is still insufficient to meet the needs of patients waiting for transplants. Zenad emphasized the importance of organizing such awareness days to facilitate and regulate the process of registering as an organ donor on national identity cards.

Sami Boudouara, Director of Health in Nabeul, highlighted the human and medical value of registering as an organ donor on national identity cards. He revealed plans to upgrade Taher El Maamouri Hospital in Nabeul to become an organ transplantation center, in addition to its current role in organ removal and donation. The hospital is said to possess the necessary medical, paramedical, and logistical capabilities to become a regional hub for kidney, liver, and cornea transplantation.

The upgrade of Taher El Maamouri Hospital to an organ transplantation center is expected to bring medical services closer to patients and facilitate the saving of lives. The hospital's new role will also contribute to reducing the number of patients waiting for transplants. Boudouara's announcement is a significant development in the healthcare sector in Tunisia, particularly in the region of Nabeul.

The awareness day on organ donation in Nabeul is part of a broader effort to promote a culture of giving in Tunisian society. The event aimed to educate the public about the importance of organ donation and the impact it can have on saving lives. By registering as an organ donor, individuals can contribute to the well-being of others and make a positive difference in their community.

The number of patients waiting for transplants in Tunisia remains high, and the shortage of organ donors is a significant challenge. The authorities are working to address this issue by promoting awareness and education on organ donation. The event in Nabeul is a step in this direction, and similar initiatives are expected to be organized in other regions of the country.

The initiative to promote organ donation in Tunisia has received support from various stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, security personnel, and citizens. The collaboration and engagement of these stakeholders are crucial to the success of the initiative and the promotion of a culture of giving in Tunisian society.

Key points

  • The number of registered organ donors in Tunisia has reached 17,000.
  • Taher El Maamouri Hospital in Nabeul is expected to become an organ transplantation center.
  • The awareness day on organ donation in Nabeul aimed to promote a culture of giving in Tunisian society.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.