Protecting Citizens Health Foundation of Dev't, Nat’l Security: President Taye

Addis Ababa, July 16, 2026 (ENA) —The Government of Ethiopia firmly believes that protecting the health of its citizens is the foundation of development, economic growth and national security, President Taye Atske Selassie noted.

The Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) has commemorated its Diamond Jubilee today, in a ceremony attended by senior government officials, diplomats, development partners, researchers, and invited guests.

Addressing the occasion, President Taye said the Ethiopian Public Health Institute plays a pivotal role in the health of citizens and the security of the country, noting that the institute's 100-year journey is a testament to Ethiopia's efforts for the health of its citizens and the health system.

 

Stating that national sovereignty and national security are closely linked to public health, he underscored that the strength of Ethiopia, its people and its future journey are based on the protection of the health of its citizens, further stressing the significance of the role of medical research service providers in this process.

President Taye commended the Ethiopian Public Health Institute’s achievement in combating challenging global health crises, epidemics and communicable diseases since its establishment.

He pointed at the institute’s rapid response and scientific leadership during epidemics such as COVID-19, Mpox, and Marburg.

 

President Taye underscored the government's firm stand in protecting the health of citizens as the foundation of national development, economic growth, and security.

The government therefore views strong institutions as the foundation of nation-building and   special attention will be given to the development of the institute’s infrastructure and technological capacity.

 

President Taye also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to further creating favorable policy frameworks to make the institute more effective and competitive in the future, emphasizing the need for modernizing the capacity to prevent and respond to public health emergencies based on past successes.

He further stressed the need to establish a fast and modern data management and analysis system that can forecast the spread of diseases using up-to-date technology.

 

The Diamond Jubilee serves as a platform to reflect on the Ethiopian Public Health Institute's 100 years of service in advancing public health research, disease surveillance, laboratory services, and evidence-based policymaking.