Subnational Health Security Assessment & Planning Kicks Off in Adama, a Significant Achievement Strengthening Ethiopia’s Health Security Capacity
Ethiopia Scales Up subnational Health Security Capacity Strengthning initiatives in Oromia Region and Addis Ababa
The Subnational Health Security Capacity Assessment and Subnational Action Plan for Health Security for the Oromia Region and the Addis Ababa City Administration officially commenced today in Adama town, marking a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s efforts to strengthen preparedness and response to public health emergencies.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Mesay Hailu, Director General of Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) affirmed the country’s strong commitment to building a resilient health system capable of preventing, detecting, and responding to health threats. He emphasized that this commitment is anchored in the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) and further realized through the National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS II), which spans from 2024/25 to 2028/29.
Dr. Mesay highlighted that while national progress is essential, true health security depends on the strength of subnational systems. “Regions and city administrations form the first line of defense where surveillance begins, where outbreaks are detected, and where initial responses determine the scale and impact of public health threats,” he said.
Representing the IHR/OH–Ethiopia Office, Dr. Feyesa Regasa noted the office’s commitment to supporting all regions in building their health security capacity. He referenced the recent benchmarking assessment conducted in the Sidama Region as a first step and confirmed that similar assessments, planning and capacity-building initiatives will continue across the country.
Speaking on behalf of the Oromia Regional Health Bureau, Dr. Tesfaye Kebebew, Deputy Head of the Bureau, emphasized that strengthening regional health security capacity ultimately strengthens the nation. He noted that regions are the foundation of the country’s public health system, where early detection, rapid response, and community-level prevention efforts begin. Dr. Tesfaye added that investing in subnational capacity not only builds resilience but also ensures that Ethiopia is better prepared to manage future health threats effectively and collectively.
Dr. Mulugeta Endale, Deputy Head of the Addis Ababa City Administration Health Bureau, stated that the city has recently emphasized One Health to address the environmental issues and end dog mediated rabies by 2030 which influence the health of humans and animals. He praised the ongoing support and planned capacity-building efforts led by EPHI through the IHR/OH Office. Dr. Mulugeta stressed that the interconnectedness of humans, animals, and the environment presents complex and unprecedented challenges, making coordinated health security efforts more crucial than ever.
Representatives from World Health Organization, United Kingdom Health Security Agency, Resolve to Save Lives and Project HOPE are taking part in the assessment and regional action plan development workshop, reaffirming their support for Ethiopia’s health security initiatives.
The workshop brings together 85 participants from government institutions and partner organizations. The week-long event is recognized as an important success in advancing the country’s subnational health security agenda, strengthening collaboration, and laying the groundwork for more robust emergency preparedness and response across regions.