Ethiopia's Experience Shows Countries Can Make Progress in Child Survival, Nutrition Outcomes, Says AU Nutrition Champion

Addis Ababa, February 12, 2026 (ENA)--Ethiopia's experience shows that with strong political will, sustained investment, community engagement and strategic partnerships, countries can make measurable progress in child survival, anemia reduction and overall nutrition outcomes, even in resource constrained settings, King Letsie III of Lesotho and African Union Nutrition Champion said today.

He made the remark, following a visit to Zewditu Memorial Hospital in Addis Ababa, where the King observed Ethiopia’s integrated approach to maternal and child health.

These are deliberate national efforts to break the intergenerational cycle of malnutrition, he stated, adding that "as the African Union champion for nutrition, I am convinced that what I have seen here today is a model worthy of emulation across the length and breadth of our continent."

The King emphasized that Ethiopia’s progress — achieved through community-based health insurance and technology-backed systems, demonstrates that measurable gains in child survival and anemia reduction are possible even in resource-constrained settings when backed by strong political will.

For her part, Ethiopia's Health Minister Mekdes Daba highlighted that the government’s dedication has led to a significant decline in maternal and infant mortality.

She attributed the success to a robust network of over 40,000 health extension workers who ensure quality service delivery in both urban and rural communities.

 

"This visit is about showing a commitment at the government level," Mekdes stated.

"The determination is only deliberate when we have professionals on the ground... we have exemplary works in our hospitals and across every region of our country."

Joel Spicer, President and CEO of Nutrition International, underscored the urgency of Ethiopia’s mission, noting that of the 30 million children projected to die from preventable causes globally in the next five years, 18 million are in Africa.

He commended Ethiopia’s comprehensive strategy, which spans from schools to maternal care.

"Ethiopia has the courage and the vision and the leadership, and those are three very important Ingredients if we are going to save children from dying, they are integrating new interventions."

The nation is integrating new interventions, such as double-fortified salt and taking more agency on Vitamin A. That’s wonderful, he added.

The visit coincides with the 48th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council, held under the theme of ensuring sustainable water and sanitation to achieve Agenda 2063 goals.