The Denbi and DenHofe foundations active in Ethiopia have decided to continue jointly under the name 'Denbi Foundation'. This foundation wants to realize a new hospital in Debre Zeyt and give the Rehoboth school in that place new (educational) impulses. This was announced by both boards on June 7.

For more than nine years, the Denbi Foundation has been active among the poorest of the poor in Debre Zeyt, supporting both the Maranatha Clinic and the Rehoboth School. The Denhofe Foundation came into existence just before corona time with the intention of establishing a new hospital. Denbi will eventually close the Maranatha Clinic. There are plans to turn it into a guesthouse or meeting space in the future. The staff will all be placed in the new hospital, which will be named Denbi Maranatha Hospital. Since the land for the new hospital was acquired by the Denbi Foundation several years ago, they expect to lay the foundation stone in early 2024. The realization of the hospital, which will focus mainly on primary mother and child care for the poorest of the poor in the area, will cost around 2.5 million euros. More affluent patients are contributing to make health care for the poorest possible.
The local Rehoboth School, which has now gained a partner school in Driestar Lekkerkerk, will receive new qualitative impetus as a result of an educational study, with an emphasis on creating a library and providing meals. Recent research by the Maranatha Clinic showed, that some 80% of the children show signs of malnutrition.
Both chairman Eelco van Garderen of the Denhofe foundation and chairman Guus Knapen of the Denbi foundation say they are happy that the past period of merger talks can be concluded. "Both boards have their own expertise and experience and we will now make joint use of that strength. Moreover, we realize that the current situation cannot continue for long: the demand for care will exceed the possibilities that the Maranatha Clinic can offer," Eelco responds.
The Denbi Foundation, which concentrated its own (sponsorship) activities mainly around the Veluwe region, will now manifest itself more nationwide. "During the Koningsmarkt held on Kings Day in Lunteren, more than 100,000 euros were raised. In addition to sponsorship funds, Denhofe brings in medical know-how, among other things, which means we can now work more vigorously with more qualities in house for the people in Ethiopia who so very much need our support," said Guus.