Ethiopia has launched a new National Strategy to Combat Substandard and Falsified Medical Products (2026–2030). The plan aims to protect public health and improve trust in the country’s health system. The strategy was unveiled at a high-level event attended by senior government officials, regulators, and development partners.
The launch was led by the Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA). EFDA Director General Heran Gerba opened the event. She was followed by an address from Health Minister Dr. Mekdes Daba. Other officials from the Ministry of Justice, the Ethiopian Customs Commission, and international partners also attended.
Why the Strategy Matters
Substandard and falsified medicines are a serious problem worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about one in ten medicines in low- and middle-income countries is fake or of poor quality. As a result, many patients do not receive proper treatment.
In Ethiopia, the risk is especially high. The country has expanded health insurance to more than 63 million people. Therefore, ensuring that medicines are safe and effective has become even more important.
Moreover, poor-quality medicines can cause severe harm. They can delay recovery, increase deaths, and worsen antimicrobial resistance. Because of this, the government considers the issue a major public health threat.
Stronger Regulation in Recent Years
In recent years, Ethiopia has made progress in regulating medical products. Notably, the country achieved WHO Global Benchmarking Tool Maturity Level 3 for medicines regulation. This means Ethiopia now has a stable and reliable regulatory system.
According to EFDA, this status allows the country to better prevent and detect fake medicines. It also improves the response when poor-quality products enter the market.
Looking ahead, Ethiopia plans to reach an even higher level. Specifically, it aims for Maturity Level 4 for medicines and Level 3 for vaccines and medical devices. In addition, EFDA hopes to become an African Centre of Excellence in regulation.
What the New Strategy Focuses On
The new national strategy follows a clear and simple structure. It is built on three main pillars: prevention, detection, and response.
First, the strategy focuses on prevention. It strengthens laws, regulations, and licensing systems. It also aims to improve border control and supply chain oversight.
Second, the strategy improves detection. It expands market surveillance, laboratory testing, and data collection. At the same time, it promotes the use of digital tools to track medicines.
Third, the strategy strengthens response. It supports faster investigations, stronger enforcement, and better coordination between agencies.
In addition, the plan invests in training and capacity building. Health workers, inspectors, and law enforcement officers will receive more support. Public awareness campaigns will also help citizens identify and report suspicious products.
Working Across Institutions
During the launch, a panel discussion brought together EFDA, customs officials, and justice authorities. Speakers stressed that no single institution can solve the problem alone.
Instead, they highlighted the need for strong coordination. Border control, market inspections, and legal action must work together. This is especially important because criminal networks are becoming more advanced.
Furthermore, sharing information quickly can help stop illegal products before they reach patients.
Support From Global Partners
The strategy was developed with support from the Gates Foundation. It also aligns with global and regional efforts to improve medicine safety.
The World Health Organization confirmed its continued support for Ethiopia. WHO said it will help with technical guidance and capacity building. As a result, Ethiopia will be better positioned to fully implement the strategy.
A Step Toward Safer Healthcare
Overall, the launch of the strategy marks a major step forward. It shows strong political commitment to patient safety and public trust.
By improving regulation, strengthening cooperation, and raising awareness, Ethiopia aims to reduce fake and poor quality medicines. In the long term, this will save lives and strengthen the health system.
Most importantly, the strategy helps ensure that patients receive medicines that are safe, effective, and reliable.