EPHI’s Research Works on Africa Effectively Addressing Urgent Health Related Challenges

Addis Ababa, March 14, 2025 (POA) ---World Health Organization (WHO) recommended the initiatives undertaken by the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) that has demonstrated Ethiopia's firm commitment to developing a strong and resilient health system.

Officials from the WHO emphasized the significance of these advancements in improving the country's health infrastructure and response capabilities during a visit to EPHI.

They emphasized the importance of maintaining this positive momentum.

Acting regional director of WHO Africa, Chikwe Ihekweazu praised the various health initiatives led by EPHI, noting that they are not only encouraging but also promise substantial benefits for the future.

Ihekweazu acknowledged that EPHI has been playing a crucial role in facilitating knowledge transfer and assured that WHO would provide comprehensive support to ensure the necessary resources for these initiatives.

Furthermore, he pointed out that EPHI’s research and development work focused on Africa has effectively addressed urgent health related challenges and made a significant impact on the continent's health system.

 

Regional Emergency Director Abdou Salam Gueye on his part said that other regional, continental, and international organizations, including the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), could greatly benefit from EPHI's exemplary practices and experiences.

He emphasized that Ethiopia’s substantial efforts in the health sector should be acknowledged, particularly given the region's large population and size, he said, noting that Ethiopia would be remembered for its comprehensive and strategic response to the global health crisis triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic.

He also recalled how Ethiopian Airlines played a pivotal role by delivering critical preventive and medical supplies worldwide during the unprecedented lockdown.

WHO leaders also commended the country’s initiatives and achievements in managing and mitigating the pandemic, noting that they serve as exemplary international best practices.

He added that EPHI will continue to strengthen and expand its initiatives by building on the valuable experiences and insights accumulated from health research and related fields over the past century.

Mesay Hailu, Director General of EPHI, elaborated on the institute's operational framework, emphasizing that its core mission is to effectively implement the objectives outlined in the national health policy.

EPHI will continue to strengthen and expand its initiatives by building on valuable experiences and insights accumulated from health research and related fields over the past century, he added.