A delegation led by the Turkish Ambassador to Ethiopia, Berk Baran, has submitted a project proposal to establish a transplant center in Ethiopia at St. Paul’s Hospital.

The project, which is being implemented with the support of the Turkish Transplant Foundation, the Turkish Cooperation Agency, and the International Transplant Network, will help expand the provision of cell, tissue, and organ transplant services in Ethiopia.

A delegation led by Cure Blindness Project CEO Kathleen Overbay met with State Minister of Health Dr. Dereje Duguma and senior officials from the Ministry of Health.

Dr. Dereje Duguma said that Cure Blindness Project is one of the organizations working with the Ministry of Health on eye care in Ethiopia; he said that the institution, especially the training of doctors is yielding great benefits in the sector.

The visit of WHO Deputy Director-General and Acting Regional Director for Africa, Chikwe Ihekweazu, was said to be instrumental in addressing the country’s various health challenges, and during their discussions, they discussed ways to improve Ethiopia’s overall health services.

The Ethiopian Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ESOG) held its 33rd Annual Conference under the theme "Every women, Every newborn for a healthy future: the role of ESOG" and presented the Emblematic Leadership Award to Minister of Health Dr. Mekdes Daba.

A delegation of investors led by Mo Chen, CEO of Shenzhen Chanyuan Network Information Technology Company, met with the Minister of Health, Dr. Mekdes Daba.

The purpose of the meeting was to specifically focus on the digitalization of the health sector, smart medical devices, and pharmaceutical supply.

Noting that the Ethiopian government is implementing reforms in all sectors, Health Minister Dr. Mekdes Daba explained that it is more convenient than ever to work together on the digitalization of the health sector.

Dr. Mekdes, who appreciated the Global Fund’s support, especially in the prevention of diseases such as HIV, TB, and malaria; called on the Global Fund to continue its support for efforts to improve primary health services and the overall health system. She expressed gratitude for the support the Global Fund is providing to Ethiopia.

The State Minister of Health, Dr. Dereje Duguma, who led the visit, said in his message that the purpose of the visit was to observe the medical services that the Global Fund has been supporting since 2003 in TB, HIV, malaria, and health system strengthening activities at the Del Fre Health Center, and to observe the changes that the Global Fund is making in the provision of services at health institutions and to create a common understanding on the conditions for continuing the eighth cycle of support.

In her opening remarks, Minister of Health Dr. Mekdes Daba explained that the forum is a platform for African ministers to exchange experiences and reach consensus on how to work together; she explained that the conference focused primarily on reproductive health issues.

The 156th session of the Executive Board of the World Health Organization, of which Ethiopia is a member, is currently underway in Geneva, Switzerland.

Addressing the forum, Minister of Health Dr. Mekdes Daba said that Ethiopia is committed to strengthening primary health care and building a strong health system.

The Minister added that efforts are being made to build a sustainable health system, increase domestic production of medical supplies, provide quality health services, and produce qualified health personnel.