Discussions were held on various health topics in the presence of the Ethiopian delegation during the side events of the #WHA79 in Geneva, Switzerland.

Building on the foundation and framework laid by the leaders of the two countries to cooperate among countries in the region within the CARICOM framework, Ethiopia and Barbados have begun various initiatives. 

The Ethiopian delegation, led by Health Minister Dr. Mekdes Daba, is participating in the 79th World Health Assembly being held in Geneva.

Health Minister Dr. Mekdes Daba, who made a speech at the assembly, stated that according to the recently released public health survey findings, Ethiopia has recorded encouraging results in reducing maternal and child mortality, and emphasized that in the future, by ensuring universal health coverage, close attention will be given to primary health care to diligently work towards creating a strong health system.

The Ethiopian delegation, led by Health Minister Dr. Mekdes Daba, has arrived in Geneva, Switzerland, to participate in the 79th World Health Assembly.

Dr. Mekdes, during the orientation forum she gave to the delegation, stated that Ethiopia is strengthening health diplomacy, particularly by using international forums such as the World Health Assembly.

Dr. Mekdes said that as Ethiopia is a member state of the World Health Organization, it will play its own role in the decisions and future work to be decided at the assembly.

During their discussion, they discussed various priorities, particularly the new role of the African Union Champion for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Health.

Stating that innovation has always been a key foundation for Africa’s growth, Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed said that harnessing the power of AI and digital technologies to address the changing challenges facing our health sector is essential to strengthen our health systems, expand access, and achieve better outcomes for our people.

The EU-African Union Health Partnership, a milestone in strengthening Africa’s health security, resilience, and sovereignty, is reportedly focused on three new initiatives.

Ethiopia is fully committed to working closely with the Africa CDC, the EU, and all partners to ensure strong systems, strong institutions, and better health outcomes for communities, said Minister of Health Dr. Mekdes Daba.