KATHMANDU, MAY 23
In a recognition of over two decades of humanitarian service, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier awarded the Federal Cross of Merit on Ribbon to Silke and Arne Drews for their voluntary contributions to Nepal's healthcare system through their organization, Nepalmed.
The prestigious honour-the highest civilian accolade conferred by the Federal Republic of Germany-was presented during President Steinmeier's visit to Delitzsch as part of his ongoing "Local Time Germany" campaign aimed at fostering direct engagement with communities across the country.
According to an official statement from the Office of the Federal President, Nepalmed has played a pivotal role in improving access to healthcare in Nepal for the past 25 years. The couple has been involved with the organization since its inception: Arne Drews has served as chairman, while Silke Drews has overseen fundraising and bookkeeping.
Highlighting the ongoing health challenges in Nepal, the statement noted that only a small segment of the population has access to affordable medical services. In response, Nepalmed has supported rural hospitals and primary health care centres in remote regions, funded the construction of access roads and staff accommodations, and provided vehicles for medical use. Regular training programs for local healthcare professionals have also been a hallmark of the organization's work.
Silke and Arne Drews were also instrumental in founding and fostering the Nepalese Respiratory Society, further cementing their commitment to long-term healthcare development in the region.
Upon receiving the award, the Drews expressed heartfelt gratitude to their collaborators in Nepal and Europe, as well as to Nepalmed's supporters and donors worldwide. "This award is not just a personal honour-it recognises the collective efforts of the entire Nepalmed team and all our partners," they said. "It inspires us to continue on our chosen path of humanitarian service."
Looking ahead, Nepalmed's upcoming initiatives include establishing a blood transfusion unit at Kirtipur Hospital, supporting a latent tuberculosis program in western Nepal, and financing a breast cancer screening campaign.
