ADDIS ABABA– Collaborative efforts are key to delivering quality healthcare services and reducing child and maternal mortality rates, according to the Ministry of Health MoH
During the National Operative Delivery Service and System Training Management and Service Initiation Program yesterday, Health Minister MekdesDaba (MD) highlighted the nation’s remarkable progress in child and maternal health programs, capacity building, and the overall healthcare system.
She stated that over 400 operating room (OR) block institutions have been constructed nationwide to deliver primary and maternal healthcare services. Of these, 126 institutions have been inaugurated, and around 52 began providing services just three weeks ago.
Commending the dedication of 67 trainees, the Minister urged them to maintain compassion in their work and deliver quality service to patients. Mekdesemphasized that accessibility, quality, and fairness are critical pillars in Ethiopia’s health sector. Accordingly, significant efforts are being made to build more health institutions, equip them with skilled professionals, and provide the necessary medical inputs.
Aseged Samuel, Human Resources Development and Reform CEO at MoH, noted that reducing maternal and child mortality remains a top priority through targeted interventions. A key health strategy is creating a “fit-for-purpose” workforce by providing practical training.
“Not only have the professionals gained clinical knowledge, but they have also acquired leadership skills through the training,” Aseged stated, adding that this
initiative has produced highly competent professionals capable of addressing persistent challenges in the health system. He reaffirmed the MoH’s commitment to continued support and follow-up for implementing these training programs.
BirhanetsehayTeklewolde (MD), Country Director of ACSIS, highlighted significant improvements in Ethiopia’s maternal mortality rates through implementing Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Maternal mortality has shown a remarkable decrease from 1,000 per 100,000 mothers to 300 per 100,000 mothers currently. Birhanetsehay credited collaborative efforts for this achievement, noting that ACSIS has trained 70 health professionals and equipped 52 health institutions.
Out of 426 health institutions with OR blocks, 126 are fully operational, and 52 have recently started delivering services, with plans to activate the remaining institutions soon.
He stressed that ACSIS will continue collaborating with the MoH to address shortages of qualified professionals and medical supplies across various states. The joint commitment underscores Ethiopia’s determination to further strengthen its healthcare system and ensure equitable access to quality services.
BY BETELHEM BEDLU
The Ethiopian Herald December 22/2024
