Renowned kidney transplant specialist Dr. Abubakr Al-Houni is making headlines in Libya, not for his international accolades, but for his quiet return to offer free medical services to patients across the country. Currently head of organ transplantation at the University of Saskatchewan in Canada, Al-Houni is using his brief visit to Libya to provide consultations and surgeries at no cost.
Patients of all ages and backgrounds have been welcomed without insurance or payment requirements. “Libya gave me education and opportunity,” he said. “The least I can offer in return is my knowledge and my health.”
Born in the town of Houn in 1966, Al-Houni graduated from the Faculty of Medicine at the Arab Medical University in Benghazi in 1991. He later moved to Tripoli, where he held several positions, including director of Houn Hospital from 1995 to 1998, before pursuing advanced studies abroad in internal medicine, nephrology, and immunology in the United States.
Since settling in Canada, Al-Houni has led the kidney transplant and plasma exchange departments at the University of Saskatchewan since 2006, a position of high ranking in his field. He has authored more than 25 scientific papers and received multiple awards, including recognition as the university’s top educator and trainer.
During his current visit, Al-Houni has conducted hundreds of free examinations and surgeries in cities including Houn, Waddan, Al-Khums, Benghazi, and Al-Marj. He has also followed up on transplant cases, offered detailed medication guidance, and delivered public lectures on chronic kidney disease, covering symptoms, complications, and treatment options.
In recognition of his volunteer work, Al-Houni has been honored in several Libyan cities. Today, he is considered one of the leading figures in kidney surgery and transplantation both in Libya and internationally.
