03/12/2024
A Legacy Spanning Generations and Continents
The story of HBL PLC is not just about business; it’s about a legacy built on dedication, innovation, and service. It’s a story that spans decades and continents, starting with my father, Merga Serbessa, whose vision shaped Ethiopia’s medical landscape.
In the 1960s, my father traveled to the Netherlands to train on Philips medical products. This experience marked the beginning of his journey to introduce world-class healthcare solutions to Ethiopia. Over the years, he also traveled extensively to Japan, working with manufacturers like Shimadzu, Acoma, and Aloka, establishing partnerships that brought cutting-edge technology to Ethiopian hospitals. His commitment to excellence set the foundation for what HBL PLC is today.
I vividly remember those formative years. After school, my father would often take me to hospitals like Cathedral Clinic, where he ensured that medical equipment was functioning properly before we headed home. His work wasn’t confined to office hours; it was a mission to improve healthcare in Ethiopia, one piece of equipment at a time. These moments taught me that this work is about far more than selling equipment—it’s about making a meaningful impact.
Fast forward to today, and I see the torch being carried forward. Recently, Biruk, a senior team member my father hired 15 years ago, visited the Netherlands for training with Topcon Healthcare. He also traveled to Japan for Sakura’s autoclave training and visited Acoma during his trip. I, too, have had the privilege of traveling to Japan to meet with manufacturers like Shimadzu, Acoma, and Hitachi Medical, as well as exploring new partnerships to expand our reach and impact.
What makes these moments so special is the continuity they represent. Decades after my father laid the groundwork, we are still strengthening the partnerships he established, working with some of the same manufacturers and exploring new opportunities to serve Ethiopia’s healthcare needs.
For me, HBL PLC is more than a business; it’s a deeply personal mission. It’s about honoring my father’s legacy, learning from his dedication, and ensuring that the values he instilled in me—integrity, perseverance, and service—remain at the heart of everything we do.
To my father, Merga Serbessa, thank you for paving the way. To Biruk and the team at HBL PLC, thank you for your dedication to carrying this legacy forward. Together, we continue to build on a foundation of excellence, passing the torch from one generation to the next.
Gobena Merga.
