Addis Ababa, June 30, 2025 (FMC) – Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh has reaffirmed Ethiopia’s strong commitment to expanding access to cancer treatment, research, and radiation therapy, describing the effort as part of the country’s broader strategy to strengthen its healthcare system.
Speaking at the “Rays of Hope” international conference co-hosted by Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the Deputy Prime Minister outlined the government’s vision for a more inclusive, responsive, and technology-enabled health sector.
Held at the African Union Conference Hall in Addis Ababa, the event brought together key global stakeholders, including IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi, Minister of Health Dr. Mekdes Daba, diplomats, ambassadors, and representatives from global health institutions.
In his keynote address, Temesgen emphasized the evolving global health landscape and Ethiopia’s determination to build a more resilient healthcare system that meets both current and future challenges.
He highlighted the Health Extension Program as a cornerstone of national progress, noting that its success is driven by a growing network of trained health professionals.
He also pointed to ongoing efforts to integrate advanced technologies into cancer care and to ensure their safe application within a strengthened regulatory framework.
Expanding access to radiation therapy through the peaceful use of nuclear technology, he added, will significantly improve early cancer diagnosis and ultimately save lives.
Beyond cancer treatment, the Deputy Prime Minister also linked Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative to public health gains, citing the program’s role in promoting environmental sustainability and its indirect benefits for health outcomes.
Calling on development partners to actively support health system transformation, Temesgen emphasized that international cooperation must go beyond financial aid, urging broader contributions to knowledge sharing, capacity-building, and innovation.
For her part, Minister of Health Dr. Mekdes Daba underscored Ethiopia’s efforts to scale up radiotherapy services, including the construction of new cancer treatment centers in several cities. A particular focus, she said, is being placed on the early detection of childhood cancer, with plans underway to establish satellite clinics dedicated to pediatric oncology.
She also noted that Ethiopia is currently updating its National Cancer Control Plan, aiming to improve cancer prevention, screening, treatment, and palliative care while reducing financial barriers to access.
IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi described cancer as one of the leading causes of death globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. He emphasized the urgent need to close the treatment gap through initiatives such as “Rays of Hope”, which aims to expand access to radiotherapy and diagnostic imaging in over 20 member states currently lacking these services.
“Countless people living with cancer today have little or no access to treatment,” Grossi said. “Through Rays of Hope, we are committed to changing that reality.”
State Minister of Health Dr. Dereje Duguma also highlighted Ethiopia’s progress, including the launch of the National Cancer Control Plan 2025–2029, which focuses on expanding access to diagnostic and treatment services.
He detailed the ongoing construction of radiotherapy centers in Gondar, Hawassa, Harar, and Mekelle, which will complement existing services in Addis Ababa.
He also announced plans to establish a comprehensive oncology center through a public-private partnership and reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to improving childhood cancer care through early detection, specialist training, and dedicated clinics.