New Ethiopia–Japan hospital project to transform infectious disease care

Addis Ababa, May 16, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia and Japan have signed a landmark agreement worth approximately USD 17.4 million (2.3 billion ETB) to launch The Project for the Specialized Hospital for Infectious Diseases Treatment in Addis Ababa. The initiative marks a significant step in Ethiopia’s efforts to strengthen its healthcare system and bolster its resilience to infectious disease outbreaks.

The agreement was signed by Ethiopia’s Minister of Finance Ahmed Shide; Japan’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Mr. Shibata Hironori; and Mr. Shintaro Takano, Deputy Resident Representative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Ethiopia Office. Ethiopia’s Minister of Health, Dr. Mekdes Daba, was also in attendance.

“This initiative is a strategic investment in our healthcare system,” said Minister Ahmed Shide. “By building a specialized facility at St. Peter Hospital equipped with modern diagnostic and treatment tools, we will be better positioned to manage and contain infectious diseases both now and in the future.”

The project involves constructing a dedicated hospital wing, supplying advanced medical equipment, and implementing clinical training programs. Together, these efforts aim to improve care standards, enhance infectious disease control, and build long-term healthcare capacity, the Embassy of Japan in Addis Ababa told Fana Media Corporation.

The new facility is expected to play a critical role in early detection, rapid response, and effective outbreak management—significantly reducing the risk of large-scale public health emergencies.

Minister Ahmed also acknowledged Japan’s longstanding support, noting, “Japan has continually backed Ethiopia’s efforts for quality growth, poverty reduction, and peace. This project reflects our strong partnership and shared vision.”

Ambassador Hironori underscored the century-long diplomatic ties between the two countries and reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to Ethiopia’s development. He also highlighted Japan’s contributions to global health through initiatives such as GAVI and the Global Fund, and pointed to the upcoming TICAD 9 summit, which will further enhance Africa-Japan cooperation.

Health Minister Dr. Mekdes Daba thanked the Government of Japan and JICA for their steadfast support: “This project is a vital step toward establishing a center of excellence in infectious disease treatment, utilizing state-of-the-art technologies to diagnose and treat illnesses more effectively.”

The Government of Ethiopia reaffirmed its commitment to deepening economic and technical cooperation with Japan, emphasizing the importance of sustained, mutually beneficial development.