Our association
Association Amitié Suisse Tchadienne
The association Amitié Suisse Tchadienne was founded in October 2012 by brothers Alex and Julian Süsstrunk. The initiative to support hospitals in Chad arose after a ten-week stay by Julian Süsstrunk as part of an internship during his medical studies semester break.
The idea for providing support developed after experiencing and understanding the often deplorable conditions on the ground and with the realization that a great deal can be achieved in such a country with limited resources. Many positive changes and developments were brought about solely through conversations and discussions, and not primarily through financial or material assistance.
After several years of intensive collaboration with the two hospitals in Chad and numerous partners in Switzerland, we draw a pleasing and positive conclusion: Great things can be achieved with little.
Philosophy
The primary goal is to improve patient care in Chad.
This includes expanding the infrastructure, ensuring a reliable and safe supply of electricity and water, procuring medical equipment, etc.
At the same time, the working conditions of hospital staff are improved, and training and further education are promoted.
Help for self-help
Investments will only be made in existing structures that have already functioned without support from the Amitié Suisse Tchadienne association. These structures have already brought about many positive changes in the past, but thanks to external support, they can develop more quickly and efficiently towards providing good patient care.
Efficiency
100% of donations go directly to the projects. Administrative costs are covered by the board. For each project, various solutions are discussed, and a decision regarding implementation is made in consultation with the responsible person on site. This ensures the best possible use of the donated funds.
Our principles
Transparency
Donors are kept informed about project developments and can contact project managers or visit the projects on-site at any time. Transparency in the collaboration between the association and the hospitals it supports is paramount for a trusting and productive partnership. This is ensured through regular contact and open communication.
Sustainability
Whenever possible, materials, work orders, and equipment are procured in Chad so that they can be replaced or repaired without significant effort. Donations are not normally used for hospital operations; for example, salaries and medications are financed through existing structures whenever possible. Exceptions to this have been made during the COVID-19 pandemic and through the social fund, which subsidizes treatments for indigent patients. However, long-term measures are in place to ensure that the hospitals can function independently without further support from the association and do not become dependent on it.
Our team
We help
The team organizes all of the association's activities and administrative matters. We are happy to answer any questions you may have personally.
Julian Süsstrunk
After completing his basic surgical training at Limmattal Hospital in Zurich, Julian is currently working at the University Abdominal Center in Basel. His medical interests lie particularly in surgery and tropical medicine. He earned his doctorate with a prevalence study on hepatitis B in southern Chad.
The founder of the association grew up in the area around Zurich and attended the Enge cantonal school in Zurich. He first developed an interest in Africa and development cooperation during a year-long stay and schooling near Cape Town, South Africa.
His first visit to Chad took place in the summer of 2012 during his medical studies semester break. After ten weeks working with Dr. Djongali and witnessing the often appalling conditions on the ground, he decided to try supporting the local hospitals. Today, he is convinced that even a small amount can make a big difference. Since then, he has made regular visits to the various hospitals in the region, sometimes for project planning and evaluation, and sometimes for clinical work.
Email: julian@projekttschad.ch
Mobile: (+41) 79 363 99 51
Alex Süsstrunk
Alex works in an office. After successfully completing his apprenticeship and gaining several years of professional experience in various large companies, he is constantly seeking new challenges and is also happy to actively contribute to the Chad project.
When his brother returned from his trip to Chad and immediately told him about his plans and ideas, Alex knew he wanted to support Julian. Having taken the first steps together and already achieved considerable success, Alex was particularly looking forward to his first visit to the two hospitals in September 2016. Since then, he has tried to make the trip to Chad with his brother every year.
Alex Süsstrunk is responsible for the administration of the association and, together with Julian, is one of the founders of the association.
Email: alex@projekttschad.ch
Mobile: (+41) 79 396 65 50