Addis Ababa, December 28, 2025 (FMC) — The Ministry of Health has officially commenced the delivery of life-saving medicines and vaccines by drone to areas at risk of the Marburg virus, marking a significant advancement in the country’s epidemic response.
The initiative, implemented in collaboration with the Information Network Security Administration (INSA), began in Dassanech Woreda, located in the South Ethiopia regional state. It forms part of the Ministry’s rapid response strategy aimed at curbing the spread of the virus and safeguarding residents in remote and hard-to-reach locations.
According to the Ministry of Health, the drone-assisted vaccine distribution in Dassanech Woreda was successfully completed today, achieving delivery in mere minutes—a task that previously took several hours by road due to the challenging terrain.
The Ministry highlighted that this development demonstrates Ethiopia’s enhanced capacity to prevent and control epidemics through the integration of advanced technological solutions, including collaboration with the Ethiopian Pharmaceutical Supply Service.
Officials further noted that the program represents a milestone in the country’s use of domestic technological capabilities to combat health crises. Plans are underway to expand and strengthen similar drone-based medical delivery services in partnership with relevant stakeholders across other regions.