Addis Ababa: Ethiopia’s Minister of Health, Dr. Mekdes Daba, announced that Ethiopia will continue to enhance its collaboration with China in the health sector. China has contributed vaccines that will protect 321,000 individuals from cholera.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Dr. Mekdes highlighted the significance of international cooperation, particularly with China, in combating communicable and preventable diseases. She noted that cholera outbreaks remain a significant threat, particularly in areas facing displacement, drought, and limited infrastructure, despite Ethiopia’s progress in improving health outcomes. Dr. Mekdes emphasized that the ministry’s strategy must be comprehensive, addressing vaccination and investments in water, sanitation, and hygiene.
The Ethiopian government, led by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, has launched the Tsidu Ethiopia initiative, a campaign prioritizing hygiene nationwide. As part of this initiative, the Tsidu Health Facilities program has been implemented in eight facilities so far. Dr. Mekdes stated that these efforts are part of a broader initiative to institutionalize hygiene as a pillar of health and dignity across Ethiopia. She acknowledged the vaccine handover as an important chapter in Sino-Ethiopian health security collaboration.
China’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Chen Hai, remarked on the long-standing cooperation between the two countries in healthcare. He stated that the recent vaccine donation reflects China’s commitment to building a stronger China-Africa community focused on shared futures. Ambassador Hai expressed hope that the vaccines would be swiftly utilized to help control the epidemic and protect lives in Ethiopia.
Ambassador Hai further noted that China will enhance efforts to strengthen medical resource linkages and talent exchanges with Ethiopia, aligning with the requirements of FOCAC’s Beijing Summit. He emphasized the strategic partnership between China and Ethiopia, expressing China’s commitment to advancing health and well-being through collaborative efforts. Ambassador Hai concluded by affirming China’s dedication to working alongside Ethiopia to prevent infectious diseases and build a modern, healthy future for both nations.