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.
The Global Health Initiative delegation met with the Minister of Health, Dr. Mekdes Daba, to discuss health systems strengthening.
Representatives of the Global Health Initiative (GHI) held a productive discussion with the Minister of Health, Dr. Mekdes Daba, on key health issues and areas for collaboration. The discussion focused on advancing the Lusaka Agenda, improving accountability, and sharing Ethiopia's successful experiences with other Lusaka Agenda members.
During a discussion held at her office, Minister of Health Dr. Mekdes Daba said that the Ministry of Health has been working with MedAction for a long time; noting that many children are waiting for heart surgery; she thanked MedAction for starting to provide free heart surgery services for children. Dr. Mekdes added that the Ministry of Health will provide all necessary support to MedAction.