In a significant step toward a more resilient, multisectoral health system capable of preventing, detecting, and responding effectively to health threats, Ethiopia launched two national frameworks: the National Action Plan for Health Security (2024/25–2028/29) and the National One Health Strategic Plan (2025–2029).
The new National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS)—the country’s second— builds on the 2019 plan and provides a measurable roadmap for closing preparedness gaps and strengthening accountability through indicators such as the 7-1-7 timeliness metrics. The One Health Strategic Plan complements this by promoting collaboration across human, animal, and environmental health sectors—ensuring health security efforts are well-coordinated across government. Resolve to Save Lives (RTSL) supported the development and launch of both plans.
Speaking at the launch event, Ethiopia’s Minister of Health, H.E. Dr. Mekdes Daba, noted that the country’s health security initiatives are anchored in the International Health Regulations (IHR, 2005), adding that the launch represents “a key step in our country’s journey to build a resilient and inclusive system that protects the health of every citizen.”
Representing RTSL, Amanda McClelland, Senior Vice President for Prevent Epidemics, commended the government’s leadership and progress in strengthening health security, reaffirming RTSL’s commitment to continued collaboration. “These plans are not just policy documents; they are bold commitments to protect the health of every Ethiopian,” she said. “We have already seen progress reflected in stronger core capacities and improved Joint External Evaluation scores. RTSL remains committed to supporting the government and partners on this journey.”
Over the past five years, RTSL has partnered with the Government of Ethiopia and the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) to strengthen health security systems and advance evidence-based implementation of the IHR. These efforts have supported stronger surveillance, laboratory, and emergency response capacities, contributing to improved preparedness and greater resilience at both national and subnational levels.
The launch of these strategic plans underscores Ethiopia’s leadership in advancing national, regional, and global health security. RTSL will continue to support the Government of Ethiopia, through EPHI, in implementing the NAPHS by providing financial and technical assistance, strengthening multisectoral coordination, supporting resource mobilization, monitoring progress, and support annual planning.