The final lap of a distance race is often the most difficult one, but in a land of runners – like Ethiopia – it is not as daunting as one might assume. The finish line
is within sight and the medal is dangling in the air, everything is possible with the right determination and perseverance.

Brazzaville, 8 April 2015 – The World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti has called on the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Republic of Congo to advocate with their national governments to strengthen health systems to be able to address the health challenges facing the African Region.

ADDIS ABABA | 7 APRIL – Ethiopia commemorated World Health Day themed, “How safe is your food? From farm to plate – make food safe!” in events in Addis Ababa, the Capital, and Jimma Town of Oromiya Regional State.

On 7 April WHO marked World Health Day with a donation of 10 ambulances, two vehicles, three motorcycles and 288 bicycles to the Ministry of Health in South Sudan to strengthen health services and enhance disease surveillance.

The donation is in line with WHO’s commitment to support the response to the humanitarian situation in South Sudan by strengthening health systems through technical and material support.

Seychelles commemorated World Health Day under the theme, “How safe is your food? From farm to plate – make food safe!” in various events across the country.

An organization is only as good as its teams on the ground

Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, commenced her visit in Ethiopia with a meeting with the WHO Ethiopia Team. Dr Moeti commended the Country Office for its steps towards implementing the WHO Reform at country level and expressed her appreciation of the commitment the team has shown to WHO’s mission in Ethiopia.

Ethiopia: Exemplary Vision for Health Systems Strengthening

Investing on strong health systems to enable African countries to face health crises and outbreaks

Recognizing women's role in achieving universal health coverage

Acknowledging best practices on reducing maternal mortality

Investing in health systems to achieve the ambitious 90-90-90 target