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.
Minister of Health Dr. Mekdes Daba, who mentioned that the Ministry of Health is working to ensure equitable access to health services for citizens; encouraged Wafid Medical to cooperate with health institutions in our country to provide citizens going to work in Gulf countries for medical examinations; She asked them to help ensure equitable access to health services being provided nationwide by expanding the institution's plans to hospitals in the regions in addition to the ones they have.
The Global Health Initiative Delegation, a coalition of development partners of the Ministry of Health, visited Motite Fura Primary Hospital, Hawela Tula Health Center, Qulba Health Center, and the Hawassa Branch of the Ethiopian Pharmaceutical Supply Service in the Sidama Region.