Social - ENA English
Social
WHO Lauds Introduction of Yellow Fever Vaccine into Ethiopia's Routine Immunization
Mar 17, 2024 562
Addis Ababa, March 17/2024 (ENA) The World Health Organization (WHO) has lauded the recent decision by Ethiopia to approve life-saving yellow fever vaccine into the country's routine immunization program. This decision is a major part of Ethiopia's efforts to implement the Eliminate Yellow Fever Epidemics strategy that aims to protect almost one billion people against this deadly disease worldwide and eliminate its epidemics by the end of 2026, the WHO said in a statement. Nonhlanhla Dlamini, acting representative of the WHO Ethiopia, said the approval to introduce the yellow fever vaccine in Ethiopia is a significant breakthrough to ensure the availability of vaccines for the people of the country and protect populations at risk. "The WHO is coordinating the effort and supporting the government by engaging multidisciplinary partners to extend their support with the resource required for smooth integration of yellow fever vaccine into their routine immunization schedule," the statement quoted Dlamini as saying. This year, the Eliminate yellow fever epidemics (EYE) strategy will host its 7th Annual Partners’ Meeting in Addis Ababa from 19 to 21 March and provides an opportunity for Ethiopia to gain insights from countries that have already introduced yellow fever vaccine into their routine immunization schedules, and that have conducted preventive vaccination campaigns. State Minister of Health Dereje Duguma said “Hosting this EYE Partners’ meeting immediately after the country’s significant decision allows us to learn from the experiences of other countries and seek support from EYE partners to effectively implement the EYE Strategy within our nation.” Yellow fever is a viral disease transmitted between humans by the bites of mosquitoes, according to the WHO. There is no specific treatment for yellow fever, which has a case fatality rate as high as 31 percent to 47 percent for those who develop severe forms of the disease. A single dose of yellow fever vaccine provides life-long protection, the WHO noted.
Over 3000 Patients to Regain Eyesight as Glaucoma Treatment Expands in Tigray Region
Mar 17, 2024 393
Addis Ababa, March 17/2024 (ENA) More than 3,000 patients in the Tigray region are poised to receive sight-saving glaucoma treatment through a collaborative effort of the Tigray Region Interim Administration Health Bureau, Kuha Hospital, and the Himalayan Cataract Project, an NGO. Himalayan Cataract project Coordinator, Tesfay Teklamariam told ENA that the institutions will be providing glaucoma treatment in different areas of the region. Since March 11, 2024, over 800 patients in the southern zone have already benefited from the program at Lemlem Karl Hospital Maichew, he revealed. "Our people deserve to see," said Tesfay, emphasizing their commitment to expanding the program across the Tigray region. Lemlem Karl Hospital Maichew Cataract Surgeon, Yemane Gitet assured treated patients of continued follow-up care. The restored vision of patients like 72-year-old Hiluf Gebremedhin from Hadnet Kebele exemplifies the program's life-changing impact. Hiluf has expressed excitement after he regained his eyesight following the free treatment. Debesay Teka and Zewdu Kalayu from Endamekoni district, who had resigned themselves to blindness for two years, expressed their renewed hope of resuming their agricultural work independently. This initiative marks a significant step towards ensuring treatable eye diseases do not cause preventable blindness.
PM Abiy Holds Talks with Ethiopian Evangelical Council Members
Mar 16, 2024 674
Addis Ababa, March 16/2024 (ENA) Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held discussions with members of the Ethiopian Evangelical Council along with regional representatives from member churches. “Following similar engagements held in the past weeks, I held discussions with members of the Ethiopian Evangelical Council along with regional representatives from member churches,” the prime minister shared on X page. PM Abiy added these discussions were crucial for addressing matters of importance to them. Currently, Prime Minister Abiy has embarked on numerous discussions with members of the community including different religious fathers, regional representatives and among others.
USAID Announces 80 Million USD in Additional Humanitarian Assistance for Ethiopia
Mar 16, 2024 579
Addis Ababa, March 16/2024 (ENA) The United States, through USAID, announced more than 80 million USD in additional humanitarian assistance to the affected population in Ethiopia. The US Agency for International Development (USAID), Assistant to the Administrator for the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance Sonali Korde who is in Ethiopia, announced the humanitarian assistance today. Significant people are estimated to require humanitarian assistance in Ethiopia due to the compounding effects of conflict, climate shocks, and insecurity across the country, it was indicated. In its press release sent to ENA, the US Embassy in Ethiopia said this funding will support USAID humanitarian partners providing urgently needed assistance to the most vulnerable communities. Through UN and non-governmental organization partners, this USAID assistance will support agriculture and nutrition activities, as well as gender-based violence prevention and response services. In response to significant nutrition needs, USAID will treat and prevent acute forms of malnutrition for more than 1.5 million children under five years of age and more than 600,000 pregnant and nursing mothers this year. With ongoing Fiscal Year 2023 assistance, USAID continues to support food security, health, and other activities, reaching at least 4.5 million people across eight regions of Ethiopia. The United States remains committed to delivering life-saving aid to those in need across Ethiopia, according to the embassy. As the largest bilateral donor of humanitarian assistance to the country, we continue to call on others to join us in delivering desperately needed aid to help save lives.
EICS Reform Shows Improvement within Short Period, Says Director-General
Mar 14, 2024 559
Addis Ababa, March 14/2024 (ENA) The Ethiopian Immigration and Citizenship Service (EICS) announced that it has been carrying out various reform works that brought about improvements within a short period. Briefing the media today, EICS Director-General Selamawit Dawit said improvements in legal frameworks and procedures, organizational restructuring as well as collaboration works with pertinent institutions were registered following the reform activities undertaken in the past 6 months. Accordingly, the service has for instance increased the number of passports printed daily by fivefold since the new leadership took over. The daily printing capability has been enhanced to 10,000 from 2,000. Out of the more than 1.1 million booklets imported, over 640,000 passports were issued during the stated period. Stating that there is no backlog at the moment, Selamawit said passports will be issued as per the appointment given by the passport system starting from 25 March, 2024.
PM Abiy Inaugurates 'Lenegewa' Women's Rehabilitation and Skill Development Center in Addis Ababa
Mar 14, 2024 594
Addis Ababa, March 14/2024 (ENA) Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has today unveiled the remarkable 'Lenegewa' Women's Rehabilitation and Skill Development Center, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to transform the lives of vulnerable women trapped in street life and the sex trade. The center, consisting of 13 impressive structures, including classrooms, student accommodations, vocational training facilities, workshops, psychological support centers, and medical services, aims to provide a holistic approach to empower women. Designed to empower women through education and skill development, the 'Lenegewa' Center offers a comprehensive range of resources. Vulnerable women admitted to the facility will receive intensive skill training programs lasting from 3 to 6 months, equipping them with the necessary expertise for future employment. Engaging courses in computer literacy, textile and tailoring, electronics, beauty services, child rearing (tutoring), catering, and hospitality will be offered to maximize their potential. In his impassioned speech, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized the significance of the project in addressing the pressing issues within society. "This project is an exceptional endeavor among all the projects we have undertaken in Addis Ababa thus far," he remarked. "By uplifting 10,000 women from their present circumstances and providing them with improved job opportunities, we have the potential to emancipate a hundred thousand women from undesirable circumstances through the establishment of ten analogous centers." , Abiy Added. Mayor of Addis Ababa Adanech Abiebie, who has tirelessly championed the cause of women's empowerment for five years, expressed her belief in the center's ability to bring about lasting change. "Today, as we inaugurate this center, we believe that we are sowing the seeds of hope for a brighter tomorrow—an enduring foundation for change," she said. "By empowering vulnerable women and equipping them with essential skills and employment opportunities, we aim to pave the way for a future brimming with hope and promise." , the mayor added. According to Adanech ,the inauguration of the 'Lenegewa' Women's Rehabilitation and Skill Development Center signifies a profound commitment to gender equality and the upliftment of women in society. It serves as a beacon of hope, promising a transformative journey towards a more inclusive and prosperous Ethiopia. The completion of the center within a remarkable 10-month timeframe is a testament to the commitment and dedication of all involved, it was learned. Women undergoing training at the facility will have access to a well-stocked library, a state-of-the-art gymnasium, and sports facilities, enhancing their personal growth and well-being. Recognizing the challenges faced by women seeking employment in Arab countries, the center also provides essential awareness training to ensure their safety and well-being during their time abroad. Furthermore, the center has allocated a significant portion of its land for urban agriculture, fostering sustainability and self-sufficiency.
Ethiopia Issues First Private Multi-modal Transport Licenses
Mar 13, 2024 5983
Addis Ababa, March 13/2024 (ENA) The Ethiopian Maritime Authority has granted the first private multi-modal transport licenses to three private companies today. The three firms which received the licenses are Panafric Global Logistics, Tikur Abay Transport and Logistics Company, and Cosmos Multi Modal Share Company. At the handing over of the licenses, Transport and Logistics Minister Alemu Sime commended the organizations and urged them to uphold their responsibilities with utmost professionalism. Emphasizing the pivotal role of logistics in propelling the nation's economic prowess, he underscored its significance in enhancing global competitiveness, attracting foreign direct investment, and catalyzing trade flows. "This milestone signifies a turning point in our sea transport and logistics capabilities," the minister remarked, highlighting the government's comprehensive reform agenda, including the strategic decision to open multi-modal services to the private sector. According to him, the move is aimed at bolstering efficiency, service quality, and cost-effectiveness. Ethiopian Maritime Authority Director-General, Abdulber Shemsu said by seamlessly integrating multiple transportation modes, including sea, air, and land, the multi-modal approach streamlines the movement of goods, slashing costs, transit times, and logistical bottlenecks while enhancing customer service delivery. "Through the expansion of multi-modal services, we can amplify the benefits for our nation, potentially saving over 20 million USD, while simultaneously strengthening our export competitiveness on the global stage," the director-general stated. The licenses issued were granted based on the rigorous evaluation criteria outlined in the guideline which assesses institutional organization, capital adequacy, and overall competence, it was learned. Panafric Global Logistics Chief Executive Officer, Elizabeth Getahun expressed vowed to leverage the company's capabilities to fulfill their responsibility in spear heading the development of Ethiopia's logistics prowess. Tikur Abay Transport and Logistics Company Executive Director, Ahmed Seid asserted the company's readiness to commence operations within six months, contingent on the government expediting the remaining formalities promptly. As Ethiopia embarks on this transformative journey, the entrance of private multi-modal logistics firms is poised to catalyze a paradigm shift, ushering in a new era of efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and global competitiveness for the nation's burgeoning logistics sector.
GAVI to Provide Cold Chain Facility to Boost Immunization Coverage in Ethiopia
Mar 13, 2024 753
Addis Ababa March 13/2024 (ENA) Global Alliance for Vaccine and Immunization (GAVI) announced that it will provide a cold chain facility to boost immunization coverage in Ethiopia. This was disclosed while State Minister of Finance, Semereta Sewasew held discussion with GAVI’s Director of High Impact Countries Country Programmes Delivery, Tokunbo Oshin. The discussion mainly highlighted co-financing requirements, the approved Cold Chain Equipment Optimization Platform (CCEOP), and financial accountability. The two sides approved support to Ethiopia on the Cold Chain facility through which 18 million USD is expected to be provided by GAVI and 4 million USD is allocated as joint investment from the government in two years period. On the occasion, Semereta affirmed that Ethiopia will remain consistent in terms of meeting the co-financing requirements to show the unwavering commitment of the government to invest on the implementation of the national immunization plan. Moreover, she appreciated GAVI for its valuable supports in the health sector. Tokunbo mentioned that Ethiopia is one of the priority countries in terms of vaccine and vaccine-related supports for the last two decades. It has been honoring the co-financing obligation as required by GAVI for vaccine delivery and cash grants for immunization-related interventions in the country, he added.
PM Awards Ethiopian Institutions for Achievements, Global Impact
Mar 12, 2024 523
Addis Ababa March 12/2024 (ENA) Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has awarded today the Ethiopian Institutional Success Award to five distinguished institutions for their significant achievements and global impact . According to the Office of the Prime Minister, the premier awarded the five institutions at a ceremony held at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum. The awardees are the Ministry of Agriculture’s wheat program, Ethiopian Airlines, Ethio Post, Ethio Telecom, and the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) project, each a testament to Ethiopia's growth and innovation. “Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed honored the five institutions/projects with the Ethiopian Institutional Success Award for their significant achievements and global impact,” the Office statement said.
UNFPA Partners with ITOCHU to Empower Women, Girls
Mar 12, 2024 514
Addis Ababa March 12/2024 (ENA) UNFPA Ethiopia in partnership with ITOCHU Corporation, a leading Japanese company, announced a project aimed at empowering women and girls through menstrual health, hygiene and livelihood promotion. Through this innovative collaboration, ITOCHU Corporation commits to contribute a portion of its sales revenue to UNFPA, supporting the implementation of a project on women's and girls' empowerment. This project runs in tandem with ITOCHU Corporation's technical support to produce high-quality reusable sanitary pads and absorbent sanitary shorts in Ethiopia, it was learned. Speaking at the hand-over ceremony, Japanese Ambassador to Ethiopia Shibata Hironori said that women's empowerment is one of the highest priority issues guiding the Government of Japan and its development cooperation. "To realize women's empowerment, a co-creation environment is critical among governments, international organizations, and private sectors. I strongly hope that this project will become one of the model cases where different sectors work together towards a common goal," Ambassador Hironori stressed. ITOCHU Corporation Commercial Representative General Manager, Shinoda Akiko said that Itochu Corporation is dedicated to improving period poverty in Ethiopia by focusing on educating about menstrual health and conducting training in sewing absorbent sanitary shorts and reusable sanitary pads. "In collaboration with UNFPA, we aim to disseminate knowledge about menstrual health and hygiene while building skills through sewing training to improve livelihood," she added. UNFPA Representative, Koffi Kouame said on his part that menstrual health and hygiene management are fundamental yet often overlooked aspects of women's and girls' well-being globally. Insufficient access to menstrual health resources can impede educational opportunities, community engagement, safety, psychosocial health, and livelihood activities, he stated. "This innovative collaboration with ITOCHU Corporation will significantly contribute to changing women's and girls' lives by improving their menstrual health and hygiene,and livelihood." According to him, the partnership with ITOCHU is critical for UNFPA to realizing its vision a world where every young person is empowered with knowledge and skills to safeguard their well-being and make informed decisions. Empowering women and girls through income-generating activities centered on sewing reusable sanitary products and providing essential business skills training, raising awareness on menstrual health, hygiene, family planning, and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), and fostering community empowerment by equipping peer educators to effectively disseminate health information alongside training sessions for sewing skills are among the major objectives of the project, it was learned.
About 111,000 Citizens Displaced from Various Places Returned Home In Past Six Months
Mar 11, 2024 689
Addis Ababa March 11/2024 (ENA) Ethiopia’s Minister of Peace, Binalf Andualem revealed that about 111,000 citizens displaced from various places returned to their homes during the past six months. The minister made the remark in his briefing regarding the six month performance of his ministry today. On the occasion, he said it takes the cooperation and coordination of numerous bodies to achieve peace. Ensuring peace is a continuous process, he stated emphasizing the necessity of making consistent efforts to achieve peace in a sustainable manner. In this regard, the minister remarked that a number of measures have been taken over the past six months to ensure sustainable peace citing the public discussions that attracted more than 9 million citizens in various parts of the country. Efforts have also been carried out with a view to strengthen the federal system by enhancing relations between regional states of the country, the minister indicated. According to the minister, successful activities have been undertaken in conflict prevention and respond. Regarding the rehabilitation efforts, about 111,000 citizens displaced from various places in Ethiopia returned to their homes during the past six months, Binalf revealed. Of them, 70 percent had been uprooted by violence, with the remaining having been affected by natural calamities.
Ethiopia Implementing Strategic Policy to Become Medical Tourism Hub
Mar 8, 2024 1243
Addis Ababa March 8/2024 (ENA) Ethiopia has designed a 10-year strategic policy that enables the nation to become a medical tourism hub, according to Ministry of Health. Following a panel discussion at the three-day Ethio Health Exhibition and Conference that opened yesterday, Ministry of Health Senior Advisor Esayas Mesele told ENA that the government has given priority to make Ethiopia a medical tourism center. According to him, the policy and strategy has massive significance in encouraging the sector in general and for investors who want to engage in the area in particular. For the senior advisor, investors who want to engage in the sector have a massive opportunity to bring their knowledge and experience to Ethiopia by using the government's health infrastructure as well. Ethiopians who travel abroad for medical services not provided in the country are subjected to high costs and exhaustion, he further elaborated. The 10-year strategic policy of medical tourism development can reduce the number of citizens who travel abroad for medical services by 80 percent and attract others seeking medical support from the continent. Highlighting that training experts and bringing new medical service technologies into the country as one of the priorities, he pointed out that implementing the policy and strategy will ensure quality and affordable medical services in Ethiopia. The 8th Ethio Health Exhibition and Conference, the largest gathering of healthcare professionals in the East Africa region, kicked off yesterday at the Millennium Hall. More than 90 companies from 12 countries are taking part in the exhibition and conference.
International Women's Day Celebrated at Adwa Victory Memorial in Ethiopia
Mar 8, 2024 1014
Addis Ababa, March 8/2024 (ENA) The International Women's Day was celebrated in the presence of President Sahle-Work Zewde today. The annually marked Women’s Day was held at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum in the capital city under the theme: "Let's Empower Women and Ensure Development and Peace". President Sahle-Work Zewde attended the ceremony joined by Women and Social Affairs Minister Ergogie Tesfaye, Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abebie, other federal and regional government officials, and invited dignitaries and women. In her address, the president emphasized the women should jointly work for sustained peace in the country as they are the first and main victims of lack of peace. Urging all stakeholders to contribute to lasting peace in Ethiopia, President Sahle-Work stressed the importance of women in leadership in order to strengthen democracy, good governance, and the rule of law. Acknowledging Ethiopia's efforts in promoting women's leadership and economic opportunities, she called for further progress. Moreover, the president underscored the need to empower women, particularly in rural areas, by providing them with educational opportunities as the basis of empowerment. Appreciating the women's reform and center of excellence built by the Addis Ababa City Administration, President Sahle-Work stressed the need to build such an institution in other parts of the country. She further added the importance of strengthening the African Women Leaders Network. Women and Social Affairs Minister Ergogie Tesfaye reaffirmed on her part the government's determination to strengthen women's overall participation, benefit, and well-being. Highlighting the International Women's Day as a day to celebrate the achievements of women who fought for equality and basic rights, the minister emphasized the crucial role women that constitute more than half of the country's population (52 percent) play in Ethiopia's development. She further elaborated on the efforts to increase women's participation in government positions and leadership roles. Ergogie finally reiterated the government's commitment to creating a system that empowers women not just in positions of authority, but also in economic, social, and political spheres. Mayor Adanech Abebie said the city administration has been working to ensure women's benefits as its key task. Accordingly, the city administration has built a women's reform and center of excellence to alleviate the economic and social pressure of women, she pointed out. The center will provide training every year for about 10,000 women engaged as prostitutes to prepare for employment. The mayor revealed that the women's reform and center of excellence will be inaugurated next week.
Ethiopian Deploys All-Female Crew Flight to London As Part of Int'l Women's Day
Mar 8, 2024 1354
Addis Ababa, March 8/2024 (ENA) Ethiopian Airlines has colorfully celebrated the International Women's Day, March 8 with an all women-functioned flight to London-Heathrow Ethiopian Airlines Group, one of the fastest growing airline brands globally, and the leading aviation group in Africa, has colorfully celebrated the International Women's Day, March 8 with an all women-functioned flight to London-Heathrow. The airline commemorated the day at Ethiopian Skylight Hotel, honoring women’s contribution in the aviation industry. The celebration took place in the presence of high-ranking government officials, ambassadors, honorable guests alongside the incredible women of Ethiopian Airlines, with the theme "Empowering Women: Connecting Africa.” Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Mesfin Tasew on the occasion acknowledged the invaluable role of women in driving the success of Ethiopian Airlines. “As staunch advocates of gender equality, we're honored to have women professionals excelling in every facet of our operations, showcasing remarkable performance and dedication in their line of work." He added that today, we shine a spotlight on these trailblazers who are not only shaping the legacy of Ethiopian Airlines but also inspiring future generations of women in aviation. "As is our custom, we are thrilled to announce the launch of our all-women-operated flight to London to grace the day," he stated. The celebration further proceeded with an all-women-functioned flight from Addis Ababa to London commanded by Captain Kalkidan Girma, the first Ethiopian female captain of the Airbus A350. Group VP Human Capital Management, Zenebework G/Tsadik on her part remarked that Ethiopian Airlines is an equal opportunity employer. “We consistently prioritize inclusive work environment that empowers women to make significant contributions in various roles within the company and we strongly believe in promoting equal gender opportunity at every level.” The captain of this year’s all women functioned flight, Captain Kalkidan Girma stated, "This all-women-functioned flight initiative not only empowers women but also sends a powerful message about gender equality. We want to inspire future generations of female aviators and we continue to lead the way in promoting gender equality within the aviation industry.” Ethiopian Airlines Group boasts women professionals in various areas of its operations including male dominated line of works such as pilot, aircraft technician and more. The airline has also been operating all women functioned flights to different parts of the world since 2015, showing the professionalism and capability in women.
Ethiopia Makes Strides in Formalizing Overseas Labor Migration, Says Labor & Skills Minister
Mar 7, 2024 1074
Addis Ababa, March 7/2024 (ENA) Minister of Labor and Skills Muferiat Kamil highlighted the progress of the current Ethiopian endeavors on the labor migration that have been promoting formal channels for sending workers abroad. Approached by ENA, Muferiat shed light on the nation’s remarkable record in transitioning from informal to formal channels in order to sending workers abroad. The Government of Ethiopia is implementing multiple initiatives towards improving labor migration governance and skills in the country by developing clear national policy frameworks, legal instruments as well as signing international labor treaties, it was indicated. Through formalized training, certification and advocacy for fair wages, the country is modernizing its overseas labor migration and developing a globally competitive workforce in addition to addressing local employment needs. These endeavors have recently resulted in shifting the previous informal way of the labor migration practice to send workers to Gulf countries and other part of the world, the minister pointed out. According to her: “There was a practice of going through the informal way in previous times without enough investment on training workers. That traditional and conventional way of sending our citizens especially, to the Horn of Africa region, has left its own legacy.” However, Muferiat emphasized that the current Ethiopia’s approach on labor migrants that has been supported by multiple initiatives, is markedly different. “There is now a huge investment from our side to send our citizens (workers) after providing them training. They are no longer going there from scratch. They will get trained, certified, and we're sure they will deliver better results.” She further underscored that this substantial investment in skills development is paramount to Ethiopian workers for having enhanced capabilities in the global labor market. Noting there was no such investment for the labor migrants previously, Muferiat indicated the current initiative is helping to identify their skills and where the demand lies. To this end, Muferiat revealed training initiatives including the continuous market assessments information, and other relevant competencies. “We'll train them as per market demands, equipping them with required skills at the destination countries.” Muferiat also stressed the need for engaging in collective bargaining in the region, adding that “if we can negotiate as a bloc, we can secure a better position for our citizens in the Horn African region to receive appropriate payment for their services.” Highlighting the ongoing success of various programs in Ethiopia, the minister disclosed about 181,000 skilled individuals have been sent overseas over the past six months. This figure has exceeded by 50,000 workers compared to the same period last year. “There is a notable shift not just in numbers but in quality too. Our new agreements include sending skilled, semi-skilled workers like engineers, nurses, architects, and agriculturalists - not just domestic workers,” Muferiat revealed. Acknowledging persistent high domestic employment demands, over 1.4 million local job opportunities have been created, the minister pointed out.
UN Ethiopia, AFLEX Sign LOI to Collaborate in Advancing Leadership, Driving Progress towards SDGs
Mar 6, 2024 711
Addis Ababa March 6/2024 (ENA) The United Nations in Ethiopia and the African Leadership Excellence Academy (AFLEX) have signed a letter of intent (LOI) to collaborate in advancing academic and thought leadership and the production and exchange of ideas to drive progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Ethiopia and the wider African context. United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Ramiz Alakbarov, and the African Leadership Excellence Academy President Zadig Abreha signed the Letter of intent (LOI) today. The collaboration will focus on 6 transformative entry points with the potential for catalytic and multiplier effects on the SDGs, significantly contributing to their achievement. These entry points encompass food systems, energy access and affordability, digital connectivity, education, jobs, social protection and climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution, it was learned. A key aspect of the collaboration involves jointly enhancing the capacity and skills of civil servants and other stakeholders in social policies. The ultimate aim is to nurture a new generation of transformative leaders who will champion the achievement of the SDGs in Ethiopia and Africa. Speaking about the significance of the collaboration, Alakbarov said "the partnership will serve as a framework for identifying and nurturing the next generation of leaders who must lead Ethiopia's development narrative, particularly with a focus on young people and marginalized groups leadership grounded in the African context and for realizing the SDGs in Africa." African Leadership Excellence Academy President, Zadig Abreha said "AFLEX aspires to become a place where academic rigor meets worldliness.'' Also, "here in AFLEX we aspire to become bridge builders amongst the academia, civil society, the public and private sector, the leaders of African countries, generation of African leaders and Africa and the globe," he added. With this view in mind and together with institutions like the UN systems the academy will work towards generating world-class leaders for both Ethiopia and the continent at large, the president elaborated. Zadig finally expressed his deep gratitude for the invaluable support and unwavering dedication displayed by Alakbarov in the process of formalizing the ground-breaking letter of intent, "which is more fittingly referred to as a memorandum of action."
Ethiopia Begins Issuing Digital ID to Refugees and Returnees
Mar 6, 2024 1150
Addis Ababa, March 6/2024 (ENA) Refugees and Returnees Service has started issuing digital ID to refugees. The service is issuing the digital ID in collaboration with the National ID Project and the United Nations High Commission for Refugees. Refugees and Returnees Service Director-General, Teyiba Hassan said at the launching ceremony that the Ethiopian government has been working to ensure the rights of refugees is fully respected. Today's issuance of digital ID to refugees will allow the inclusion of refugees in the national system, she added. National ID Project General Manager, Yodahe Zemikael said that giving refugees a digital ID will allow them to get the services they need. He added that the digital ID will enable to have an integrated information about refugees and help refugees get efficient service. UNHCR Country Representative Andrew Mbogori said Ethiopia is the first country in East Africa to launch Fayda, Digital ID. Ethiopia is a pioneer in including refugees and asylum seekers in the National ID system, improving access to basic services and work opportunities. This shows that Ethiopia is paying attention to respecting the rights of refugees at the international level and it is a big step for Ethiopia to include in the national digital identity system. He said that Ethiopia's adoption of an inclusive system to provide refugees with a digital identity means that it has implemented its promise to respect the international rights of refugees. According to him, the Digital ID will benefit refugees Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, Eritrea and refugees from neighboring countries of Ethiopia. Mbogori noted that the ID will enable refugees to access telecommunications, banking, education, health, banking and other services. Ethiopia hosts more than one million refugees from different countries.
Tourism Minister Attending International Tourism Exhibition
Mar 6, 2024 663
Addis Ababa, March 6 /2024 (ENA) Ethiopia's Tourism Minister Nasise Chali is attending the International Tourism Exhibition (ITB), being underway in Berlin, Germany. This year’s edition of the exhibition is underway from 5-7 March 2024 in Berlin, with a wide focus that encapsulates all the related sectors in tourism. The exhibition would serve as a platform for tourism companies and countries from all over the world to promote their destinations and tourism services, it was learned. Tourism Minister Ambassador Nasise promoted Ethiopia's tourism destination development projects and tourist attraction sites that the country has been paying attention to the sector in recent years. She also held discussions with various international institutions that will enable to work together. Many domestic tourism service providers including Ethiopian Airlines are participating in this exhibition, according to the Ministry of Tourism.
Gov't Investing on Innovation and Technology to Ensure Quality Healthcare Services
Mar 5, 2024 641
Addis Ababa, March 5/2024 (ENA) The Government of Ethiopia has been investing on innovation and technology infrastructure to ensure quality healthcare services, according to Ministry of Health. In his keynote speech to the 8th National Healthcare Innovation and Quality Summit that opened today, Health State Minister Dr. Ayele Teshome said the number and type of innovation interventions implemented in Ethiopia have increased in recent years. Not all, but some of these interventions were successful and have significantly improved the health system, he added. According to him, innovations in medical technology, treatments and procedures are critical in improving quality and continuity of care. Innovations such as digitization and automation in the health information system contribute significantly to identifying potential safety issues, preventing medical errors and ensuring accountability and learning opportunities. Furthermore, innovation can help to address healthcare disparities and promote equity by improving access to care for under-served population as well as overcome geographical barriers. Dr. Ayele also noted that over the past ten years various reform programs have been carried and remarkable achievements obtained through innovation based solutions in the health sector. Innovation and Technology State Minister Bayissa Bedada said on his part that science and technology and innovation play a crucial role in achieving 2030 sustainable development goals and Agenda 2063. The Government of Ethiopia has been carrying out various activities realizing that innovation contributes to national economy of the county, he stated. Bayissa added that the government has also been tirelessly working on legal frameworks, infrastructural and human development that would enable the sector become competitive and effective. On behalf of WHO Ethiopia Country Representative Dr. Dlamini, Dr. Bejoy Nambiar said the organization is committed to supporting the Ministry of Health in achieving strategic objectives of harnessing innovation for health systems quality, equity, and safety. The three-day summit under the theme: "Promoting Health System Innovation to Enhance Healthcare Quality, Safety and Equity" has attracted various stakeholders from the country and other international organizations working on health.
National Healthcare Innovation and Quality Summit Kicks off
Mar 5, 2024 673
Addis Ababa, March 5/2024 (ENA) The 8th National Healthcare Innovation and Quality Summit is underway that emphasizes healthcare quality, safety and equity in the Ethiopian health system. A three-day summit under the theme: "Promoting Health System Innovation to Enhance Healthcare Quality, Safety and Equity," kicked off today at the Headquarters of African Union (AU) in Addis Ababa. The summit brought together the diverse and dynamic actors in the health sector to share their insights, experiences, best practices, challenges and opportunities for health system innovation. Despite tremendous measures that has been reinforced to improve the health sector, rising costs, inconsistent outcomes, and fragmented delivery service and among others have remained as major bottlenecks in the sector. In order to solve the challenges, the Ministry of Health has put strong emphasis on transforming the health system of the country to ensure a better healthcare system, it was indicated. To this end, a three-day summit stressed the need for addressing the challenges in the healthcare service by embracing innovation, developing and implementing new ideas, technologies, and methods. The summit is also believed to be instrumental in bringing about inputs that would help to improve the health institutions for delivering a quality, affordable, as well as equitable healthcare accessibility. A three-day summit was attended by higher government officials from the federal and regional government of Ethiopia, partners, donors, health professionals, researchers among others. Moreover, the summit brought together participants for UN organizations like WHO, Civil Society Organizations, and others in person and via webinar, it was learned.