Healthcare Standards Must Become Permanent Practice, Not Event-Based Showcase, PM Abiy Says at Lafto Hospital Inauguration

Addis Ababa, May 26, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has called for a broad cultural transformation within the country’s healthcare system, stressing that infrastructure development alone is not sufficient without sustained service quality, institutional discipline, and patient-centered care.

The Prime Minister made the remarks during the inauguration of Lafto Hospital in Addis Ababa, emphasizing that modern hospitals must be supported by proper maintenance systems, increased private sector participation, and a stronger culture of compassionate service delivery.

Reflecting on the evolution of Ethiopia’s health policy, PM Abiy noted that while earlier efforts placed significant emphasis on preventive healthcare, experience has shown the need for a more balanced approach that integrates both preventive and curative services to effectively address complex and critical illnesses.

He further stated that effective preventive healthcare extends beyond medical facilities, underscoring the importance of cleaner cities, safer public environments, improved lifestyles, expanded sports infrastructure, and accessible recreational spaces to promote healthier communities.

The Prime Minister also highlighted nutrition as a foundational element of public health, describing it as society’s first line of defense in preventing disease, and commended ongoing student and community feeding programs as long-term investments in building a healthier generation.

Commending the Addis Ababa City Administration for progress in social and infrastructure development, PM Abiy nonetheless stressed that the growing demands of the healthcare sector require stronger private sector engagement and collaboration.

He noted that many skilled medical professionals and investors are willing to establish advanced healthcare facilities but continue to face challenges such as limited access to land and administrative bottlenecks, urging city authorities to work closely with stakeholders to address these constraints.

Addressing healthcare professionals and administrators, the Prime Minister said the standards demonstrated during the hospital’s inauguration should not remain symbolic, but must be institutionalized as permanent practice across the healthcare system.

He further called for a shift in healthcare culture toward empathy, respect, and equal treatment of patients, emphasizing the need for patient-centered care that serves all citizens without distinction.

PM Abiy also warned against complacency, noting Ethiopia’s expanding medical engagement across Africa, including more than 400 African medical residents currently training in the country and Ethiopian physicians serving across the continent.

He cautioned that past achievements should not lead to stagnation, stating that complacency can hinder further progress and institutional development.