His Majesty King Letsi III of Lesotho, accompanied by the Minister of Health, Dr. Mekdes Daba, visited the Child Care and Nutrition Unit at Zewditu Memorial Hospital in Addis Ababa, where he commended Ethiopia’s commitment to improving maternal and child health.
Speaking during the visit, His Majesty King Letsi stressed that “effective nutrition policies save lives” and noted that Ethiopia’s nutrition reform efforts have shown exemplary results. He also highlighted the critical role nutrition plays in preventing disease and reducing child mortality.
The King said he had witnessed firsthand Ethiopia's strong efforts to protect mothers and children. The country has adopted a commendable and strategic approach to achieving sustainable health outcomes by integrating nutrition into its health care system.
Minister of Health Dr. Mekdes Daba said the hospital reflects Ethiopia’s vision and commitment to prioritize child care and nutrition. She said nutrition is not a matter for the health sector alone, but rather a coordinated effort by sector agencies and stakeholders.
“Nutrition and child survival are building the foundation of our country’s human capital,” said Dr. Mekdes. She emphasized that placing nutrition at the center of Ethiopia’s development agenda is crucial to ensuring a healthy and productive future generation.
The Minister expressed her appreciation to His Majesty for visiting the hospital; She expressed her belief that Ethiopia will work together in partnership by sharing Lesotho's experience in child care and nutrition.