WHO Regional Director Pledges Continued Support for Ethiopia’s Health Sector Progress

Addis Ababa, August 9, 2025 (FMC) — WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Mohamed Yakub Janabi, has praised Ethiopia’s achievements in strengthening its health system and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting the country’s ongoing efforts.

Speaking to ENA during his first official visit to Ethiopia, Dr. Janabi said he held productive discussions with Health Minister Dr. Mekdes Daba on national health priorities, WHO’s role as a key partner, and ways to reach populations affected by humanitarian crises.

“I had the opportunity to see how health is run in Ethiopia. I was impressed, and we discussed a range of issues,” he said, noting that Ethiopia’s status as Africa’s second most populous country demands “an extra mile” in health system management — a challenge he commended the government for addressing under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s leadership.

He highlighted progress in key indicators, including a notable decline in maternal mortality, as evidence of the country’s advancement.

The Regional Director emphasized Ethiopia’s strategic importance in Africa’s broader health and development agenda, pledging that WHO will continue close collaboration to strengthen service delivery, emergency preparedness, and health sovereignty.

During his visit, Dr. Janabi also met with representatives of the African Union, the United Nations, and development partners. Discussions focused on health financing, boosting local pharmaceutical manufacturing, and reinforcing continental preparedness for health emergencies.