Embassy News

...Continued from the front page of our website.

President Obama to Nominate Ambassador Donald E. Booth to be Next U.S. Ambassador to Ethiopia (12/10/09)

President Barack Obama announced on Wednesday December 9, 2009 his intent to nominate Donald E. Booth to be the next U.S. Ambassador to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. In announcing his intention to nominate Ambassador Booth and other key U.S. Administration officials, President Obama said, “The depth of experience these individuals bring to their roles will be valuable to my administration as we work to bring about real change for the American people.  I look forward to working with them in the months and years ahead.”  Donald E. Booth is currently the United States Ambassador to the Republic of Zambia.  Prior to that, Ambassador Booth served three years as Ambassador to the Republic of Liberia. Prior to this position, he served as Director of the Office of West African Affairs. (read more)  -- e-mail us your comments --

United States Contributes an Additional USD 70 Million to WFP to Assist Emergency Relief Beneficiaries (12/09/09)

Ambassador Cousin speaking with women at USAID builtlivestock market.

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Before departing on Wednesday, December 9 from a five-day trip to Ethiopia, the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Agencies in Rome, Ertharin Cousin announced an additional contribution of $70 million to the World Food Program (WFP) to assist the emergency caseload for relief beneficiaries in this country. The contribution is provided from the American people through the U.S. Agency of International Development (USAID).  WFP will facilitate management of the food contribution. This is Ambassador Cousin’s first trip to Ethiopia, and she spent much of her time in the field, visiting agricultural and livestock sites with the Minister of Agriculture H.E. Tefera Deribew, and traveling to the Somali region to see WFP and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) assistance projects supported by the United States.  (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

National HIV/AIDS Case Management Implementation Guidelines Launched (12/09/09)

Country Director of the United States’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr. Tom Kenyon speaking at the event.

The Ethiopian Ministry of Health, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and University of Washington today launched National Case Management Implementation Guidelines for HIV/AIDS in Ethiopia at the Intercontinental Hotel, Addis Ababa.  The guidelines offer a proactive approach to help clients adhere to anti-retroviral treatment (ART) and care in Ethiopia.  The Guidelines are the result of four years of collaboration by several stakeholders committed to developing a practical approach to providing quality care for HIV/AIDS clients, especially those needing chronic care which requires strict ART adherence and retention.  Today’s launch brought together health policy makers, delegates from the World Health Organization, U.S. Government, development partners, and various government agencies and non-governmental organizations. (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

United States and Ethiopian Governments Underscore Shared Goals for Agriculture Development and Food Security (12/05/09)

Owner of feed lot posing with Ato Tefer Deribew, Ethiopian Minister of Agriculture (Center), Ambassador Ertharin Cousin of the U.S. Mission to the UN Agencies in Rome (3rd right), and Ambassador Roger Meece the former U.S. Chargé d’Affaires (2nd right).

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Representatives of the United States and Ethiopian governments on Saturday, December 5 pledged to continue close collaboration to address shared goals for agriculture development and food security.  During a joint field visit to a meat export abattoir and an animal feedlot in Mojo, His Excellency Ato Tefera Deribew, Ethiopian Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ambassador Ertharin Cousin of the U.S. Mission to the UN Agencies in Rome, and Ambassador Roger Meece, the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires in Ethiopia highlighted the close bilateral relationship of the two nations in both meeting immediate food needs for vulnerable populations as well as laying the longer term foundations for sustainable agricultural development in Ethiopia. (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

U.S. Troops Conduct Veterinary Civic Action Project (12/03/09)

U.S. Chargé d’Affaires, Ambassador Roger A. Meece vaccinating a camel.

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DIRE DAWA, Ethiopia – U.S. Chargé d’Affaires in Ethiopia, Ambassador Roger A. Meece, visited American service members conducting a Community Animal Health Worker (CAHW) training for veterinarians in the Somali region on Thursday, December 3, 2009.Service members from the Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa, in partnership with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Ethiopian Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, are providing the CAHW training as part of a veterinary civic action project (VETCAP) November 15 through December 7. U.S. military members from the 353rd Civil Affairs Functional Specialty Team are working side-by-side with Ethiopian veterinarians and government officials to train 47 community animal health workers in the Shinile zone in animal vaccination, disease control, outbreak containment, and animal treatment techniques. (read more)  -- e-mail us your comments --

U.S. Embassy Honors “PEPFAR Heroes” in Recognition of World AIDS Day (11/30/09)

The PEPFAR HEROES with Embassy Officials. (L– R)  Ato Tadesse Aynalem,  Ambassador Roger A. Meece,  Dr. Aster Shoamare,  Ato Mesfin Feyisa, Woizero Alem Kebede, Deputy Chief of Mission Tulinabo Mushingi, and Woizero Ajebush Ayele.

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In commemoration of World AIDS Day, the Embassy of the United States of America on Monday, November 30 recognized five Ethiopian leaders in the fight against HIV and AIDS as “PEPFAR Heroes” for advancing the objectives of the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).  “Today we recognize five amazing individuals whose personal commitments to combating the scourge of HIV and AIDS in Ethiopia has inspired hope and made an enormous difference in thousands of lives.  I am honored to call them ‘Heroes,’” said United States’ Chargé d’Affaires in Ethiopia, Ambassador Roger A. Meece upon meeting the five awardees. The five Heroes reflect not only the diversity of the communities affected by HIV and AIDS, but also the range of innovative responses taken to counter the disease. (read more)  -- e-mail us your comments --

USAID, Partners Commemorate 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (12/03/09)

USAID officials, Nancy Estes and David Kahrmann with a performer from Circuses Ethiopia before the event began.

On Thursday, December 3, 2009 the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) joined its development partners to share experiences in combating gender based violence in Ethiopia and to commemorate 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Her Excellency W/zo Muferehat Kamil, Women’s Affairs Minister, and Ms. Nancy Estes, USAID/Ethiopia’s Acting Mission Director attended the event, held at Pathfinder International.  “USAID/Ethiopia stands in solidarity with its partners, government, and the people of Ethiopia in pledging to continue to work together to raise awareness that violence against women and girls is unacceptable, that it harms development, and damages lives and opportunities,” Ms. Estes announced to the assembled crowd. USAID partners at the event -- including Population Council, Pathfinder International, Engender Health, and Medical Sciences for Health (MSH) -- noted the need for education, life skills trainings, and engagement of men to prevent gender-based violence. (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

Zewditu Hospital to Get a New Outpatient Department (11/19/09)

Ethiopian Health Minister, Dr. Tedros Adhanom and Country Director of the United States’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr. Tom Kenyon at the ceremony.

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Ethiopian Health Minister, Dr. Tedros Adhanom and Country Director of the United States’ Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr. Tom Kenyon, on November 19 broke ground on the construction of a new Outpatient Department Annex within the compound of Zewditu Memorial Hospital.  Upon completion of the construction, Ethiopia’s most active antiretroviral therapy (ART) treatment center will be endowed with a comprehensive, state-of-the-art facility allowing ART patients to receive the same caring support as non-ART patients without the fear of being stigmatized by the community. Zewditu Hospital currently treats over 6,000 ART patients each month, more than any other health facility in Ethiopia.  ART patients are currently treated in a facility composed of two shipping containers.  (read more)   -- e-mail us your comments --

USAID Urban Gardens Program Sponsors Conference  (11/16/09)

USAID Mission Director Thomas H. Staal visiting agricultural exhibition organized by DAI.

The United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Urban Gardens Program on November 16 launched a two-day conference called “Beyond Urban Gardens: Meeting the Growing Needs of Ethiopia’s Urban Population.”  The conference highlights the challenges and the opportunities for urban gardening in combating HIV/AIDS and addressing food security, livelihoods, and health issues of urban populations in Ethiopia. The USAID Urban Gardens Program for HIV-Affected Women and Children, funded by the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), began in Ethiopia five years ago. Since October 2008, the program has helped more than 15,000 women and children and 5,000 households to generate income, adhere to AIDS treatment protocols, improve their nutrition and health, and boost their attendance at school. (read more)    -- e-mail us your comments --

USAID Provides $40 Million Grant to Prevent and Treat Malaria  (11/12/09)
Program to Build on Successes Made by Ethiopia against Ancient Killer

U.S. Global Malaria Coordinator Rear Admiral Tim Ziemer speaking at the grant agreement signing between USAID/Ethiopia and UNICEF.

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The American people, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), on November 12 announced a three-year, $40 million grant to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to assist the Government of Ethiopia’s Federal Ministry of Health and the Oromia Regional Health Bureau deliver appropriate malaria prevention, diagnosis, and treatment services. The program, called "Sustaining Malaria Reduction Interventions in Oromia,” will increase access to effective diagnostic tests and medicines to manage malaria cases and promote household ownership and proper use of insecticide-treated bednets. (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

 

USAID Provides $400 Million in Humanitarian Assistance  (11/05/09)       
American People Respond to Needs of Ethiopians

The American people, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), have provided US$340 million in emergency and humanitarian food aid -- more than 464,000 metric tons –and more than $60 million in emergency nutrition, water, sanitation, hygiene, and similar non-food assistance over the last year to support vulnerable families and communities in Ethiopia. The Government of Ethiopia recently announced that 6.2 million Ethiopians are in need of emergency food aid relief as a result of the unexpectedly low rainfall in recent months.  USAID is providing an initial contribution of US$50 million to the U.N. World Food Program (WFP) and US$25 million to a consortium of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to respond to these relief needs. (read more)   -- e-mail us your comments --

 

Saving Children’s Lives from Pneumonia (11/02/09)
U.S. Commemorates World Pneumonia Day in Ethiopia

On the first-ever World Pneumonia Day, the United States and countries around the world are observing November 2, 2009 as an opportunity to raise global awareness of pneumonia and reaffirm the commitment to save the lives of children. “A majority of child deaths can be prevented through vaccines, early diagnosis and proper treatment with antibiotics that cost less than a dollar,” said USAID Mission Director Thomas H. Staal. “Ensuring better health for the world's children is a gift we must deliver for it will be today’s children who will become tomorrow’s doctors, scientists, engineers and leaders.” On behalf of the American people, USAID is working with the Ethiopian Government and partners to improve child health and save children dying of preventable causes.  Our efforts are increasing coordination and scaling up known, effective child health interventions that can reach children to prevent or treat the most important causes of child death – pneumonia, malaria, and diarrhea. (read more)  -- e-mail us your comments --

Partnership Improves Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene in Ethiopia (10/24/09)

Tangut, age 37, Tej-Atel community member, collecting water from one of the water development facilities.

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The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Coca-Cola Africa Foundation on Saturday, October 24 announced the completion of several water facilities in Ethiopia, which provide safe drinking water to over 46,000 Ethiopians. The project -- executed under the Water and Development Alliance (WADA) initiative by the Millennium Water Alliance -- included the rehabilitation and construction of water systems and improved pit latrines fit with hand washing facilities.  To enhance the health impact of the project and to multiply the use of water, cattle troughs, public showers and clothes washing basins were also constructed.  Educational materials on hygiene were developed and distributed to schools and communities. (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

 

New Program to Prevent Spread of HIV Among Mobile Populations (10/22/09)

Thomas H. Staal, USAID Mission Director speaking at the event.

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Save the Children USA, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the Federal HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control Office (HAPCO), and the Federal Ministry of Health, in concert with local and international partners on Thursday, October 22 launched the TransACTION program, which aims to provide HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections prevention and care services for at risk mobile populations. The program officially started in May 2009 and will target the most at-risk populations in 120 towns, including commercial sex workers, at risk youth, truck drivers and communities along the identified transportation routes over a period of five years.  PEPFAR, through USAID, has allocated $40 million dollars for the program. (read more) -- e-mail us your comments -- 

USAID Unveils Impressive Results in HIV Care and Treatment (10/13/09)

(L-R) Dr. Carmela Abate, PEPFAR Country Coordinator, Dr. Tewodros Adhanom, Health Minister, Nancy Estes, Deputy USAID Mission Director, Bud Crandall, HCSP Chief of Party, and Haile Wubneh, HCSP, Deputy Chief of Party.

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On Tuesday, October 13, 2009 the HIV/AIDS Care and Support Program, funded through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), held its second annual review meeting.  In its first two years of operation, the USAID HIV/AIDS Care and Support Program has supported 500 health centers in Addis Ababa and the four regions of Amhara, Oromiya, SNNPR, and Tigray.  This support has provided antiretroviral therapy (ART) to more than 45,000 people.  Nearly 1.5 million people were counseled and tested for HIV in year two alone.  The program has enrolled more than 100,000 HIV-positive Ethiopians in chronic care and trained over 7,000 health care providers and 6,000 community members in HIV care and support services.  With these results, the program has surpassed many of its targets. (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

 

U.S. Company Helps Orphanage Open School (10/13/09)

A photo of the Ketchene orphanage school taken after the removal of the trees.

U.S.-based B.L. Harbert International (BLHI), a construction company that is building the new U.S. Embassy Compound, helped to open a school at a local government–run orphanage.  Last year, a school was built on the compound of Kechene orphanage, but has not opened yet because of several trees surrounding the school, making the building unsafe.  BLHI generously covered the costs of cutting down the trees, and the school is expected to open by the end of the year.  Orphanage Director Sister Sophia said, “Opening the school on the orphanage compound will be much better for the younger children since they will not have to walk long distances to get to school.”  Thirty elementary school-aged children from the orphanage will attend the school.  -- e-mail us your comments --

HIV-Positive Mothers to Gain Silk Production Skills (10/07/09)

Welenchiti Administration Mayor Ato Asnake Alemu (L ) and USAID representative Catherine Hastings cutting ribbon at the launching ceremony.

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On Wednesday, October 7, 2009 the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and Family Health International (FHI) launched a program that will link HIV-positive mothers from community-based Mother’s Support Groups (MSG) with income generating opportunities in Welenchiti town. This unique program will improve the livelihoods of these mothers through commercial silk production - called the Silk Production and Innovation Network (SPIN). The program, funded by the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), aims to enhance the economic security of AIDS-affected households by providing women with a valuable skill to produce and process raw silk. The initiative focuses on the heavily trafficked Addis Ababa-Djibouti transport corridor, whose highly mobile, poor population has a high HIV prevalence. (read more)  -- e-mail us your comments --

World Hospice and Palliative Care Day Celebrated (10/10/09)
   

A candle lighting and unifying song for those suffering in illness were part of the ceremony.

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World Hospice and Palliative Care Day was celebrated on October 10, 2009 at the Black Lion Hospital under the annual theme “Discovering Your Voice.”  This event marks a unified day of action to celebrate and support hospice and palliative care around the world.  The event brought together health policy makers, palliative and hospice care providers, people living with life-limiting illnesses and their families, as well as various government and non-governmental agencies.  This day aims at sharing the stakeholders’ vision to increase the availability of hospice and palliative care throughout Ethiopia by creating opportunities to speak out, as well as to  raise awareness and understanding of the needs – medical, social, psychological, spiritual – of people living with a life-limiting illness and their families.  (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

USAID Provides Over $80 Million to Support Quality Education (09/28/09)

Students gathered for photo after receiving school supplies.

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The American people, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), on Monday September 28, 2009 announced support for six new education programs to improve quality education in Ethiopia.  The programs, worth over US $80 million over the next five years, will support on-going efforts to develop, and improve the quality of, Ethiopia’s educational system. The Ethiopian Minister of Education,  His Excellency Demeke Mekonnen, and USAID/Ethiopia Mission Director, Thomas H. Staal, delivered remarks at the event, which was held at Kotebe College of Teacher Education and followed the theme of “Partnership Striving for Quality Education.”  (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

USAID Loan Agreement Increases Credit Access for Microfinance Institutions and Credit Cooperatives (09/25/09)

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A new loan agreement signed on Friday, September 25, 2009 between the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and Awash International Bank and Oromia Cooperative Bank will help strengthen the economic development of Ethiopia by enabling microfinance institutions and savings and credit cooperatives to offer more loans. The agreement, worth $16 million USD in potential loans, reduces collateral requirements to beneficiaries by 50 percent. The program will benefit micro and small enterprises, which play a major role in creating jobs and generating income for Ethiopians in food deficit regions. (read more)  -- e-mail us your comments --

 

U.S. Commits Funds for Economic Development, Health,and Education in Ethiopia (09/17/09)

The American people, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), are providing new funding totaling nearly US $190 million to assist the Ethiopian people in three key areas: economic development, health and education.  On Thursday September 17, USAID joined the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development to officially sign the agreements, which will enable our non-governmental and civil society partners to further strengthen the development of Ethiopia. (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

U.S. Committed to Strengthen HIV Counseling and Testing in Ethiopia (09/10/09)

A nurse taking blood test in one of the home to home testing programs

In connection with the National HIV Counseling and Testing (HCT) Day in Ethiopia, the United State Government renews its commitment to support the Government of Ethiopia’s goal of universal access to HIV/AIDS prevention, care and treatment by focusing on HIV counseling and testing (HCT) in urban and peri-urban areas and selected rural areas. The U.S. government through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has been the lead partner in strengthening and expanding HCT services in Ethiopia. The U.S. government has assisted the federal and regional governments since 2001 and will continue to offer support to strengthen and improve coordination of HCT programs and services. (read more)  -- e-mail us your comments --

U.S. Embassy Hosts Iftar Dinner in Harrar (08/26/09)
 

Public Affairs Officer Alyson L. Grunder (far right) having Iftar dinner with Harari women at the Harari Cultural Center.

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The Embassy of the United States of America, hosted an Iftar dinner in Harrar for the Muslim community of Harar.  The attendance included Harari Regional State Officials, religious leaders, elders of the community, leaders of the Region’s Islamic Affairs Council, and members of the Harari Women and Youth Association.  Over 400 people attended the dinner, including U.S. Embassy officials and those in need from the local population.   The dinner celebrated the longstanding friendship between the people of Harrar and of the United States. The U.S. Embassy delegation to Harrar included Public Affairs Officer Alyson L. Grunder, Defense Attaché Col. Bradley Anderson, and two representatives of the U.S. military’s chaplain corps, Imam Walid Habash and Reverend William Hood.  Imam Habash and Reverend Hood are responsible for the spiritual well-being of soldiers in the U.S. armed forces. (read more)  -- e-mail us your comments --

Special Envoy Gration Worked Together with Darfurian Factions for Unification (08/22/09)

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Factions of the Sudan Liberation Movement convened a consultative forum in Addis Ababa from August 18 to 22, 2009 under the sponsorship of the U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan , General J. Scott Gration. The African Union/United Nations Joint chief Mediator, Djibrill Bassolé, observed the meeting. In a press conference General Gration and leaders of the factions gave on August 22 2009, General Gration said, “We worked together for the unification of the Darfurian factions.  The leaders of the SLA/Unity, SLA/ Abdul Wahid and SLA/Abdelshafi groups joined together and we started on the unification of the SLA movements.  The URF (United Resistance Front ) joined us and they agreed in principle on the unification between the factions until this unity is completed by full unification of all the Darfurian factions on the ground in Darfur at a later date.” Participants of the consultative forum include, Baha Idriss Abu Garda, Chairman, United Resistance Front; Ismael Rifa Osman, Head of Delegation, Sudan Liberation Movement/Abdul Wahid; Ahmed Abdelshafi Toba, Chairman, Sudan Liberation Movement/Abdelshafi; Abdalla Yahya, Chairman, Sudan Liberation Movement/Unity. -- e-mail us your comments --

U.S. Africa Command Academic Symposium held in Addis Ababa (08/17-08/20) 

General William E. “Kip” Ward (second from the left) speaking at the closing ceremony.  (L—R) Mr. Paul Saxton of the U.S. Africa Command, General Ward, Colonel Mike Garrison, Deputy Director of the ACSS, and Mr. Michael Gonzales, Acing Deputy Chief of Mission.

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Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – The U.S. Africa Command and the Africa Center for Strategic Studies (ACSS) co-sponsored the second U.S. Africa Command Academic Symposium in Addis Ababa from August 17 to 20, 2009.  Forty academics from Africa, Europe and the United States came together to enhance their understanding of Africa Command, and to offer their input on how the Africa Command can best support peace and stability in Africa.
The symposium was designed to enhance understanding of Africa Command and its mission and objectives among the academic community in Africa, Europe and the United States.  The symposium sought to engage academics with expertise in subject matter areas including history, political science, security studies, civil-military relations, and conflict management. (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

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United States Trade Representative Ron Kirk Visits Key Trading Partner Ethiopia (08/08/09)

From left to right Ms. Florizelle Assistant STR for Africa; Ambassador Ronald Kirk; MS. Carol Guthrie, Assistant for Public & Media Affairs; Mr. Michael C.Gonzales, Chargé d‘ Affairs

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia - United States Trade Representative Ambassador Ron Kirk paid a three day working visit to Ethiopia. Ambassador Ron Kirk met and held talks with Ethiopian government officials including Prime Minister Meles Zenawi. He also met with representatives of the private sector and visited several industries. During a briefing he gave to journalists today at the conclusion of his visit to Ethiopia Ambassador Kirk said, “I am here because Ethiopia is a key U.S. trading partner in Africa.  I am also here because Ethiopia’s story is emblematic of U.S. engagement with all of Africa on trade and development.  We have seen progress.  Our countries have a robust trade relationship.  AGOA is a huge part of that.   Ethiopia is doing particularly well under AGOA.  Exports more than doubled from 2007 to 2008. Ethiopia is diversifying exports.  And we can see the fruits of U.S. efforts to build trade capacity here.  Yet, challenges remain.”  (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

African Diaspora Marketplace Program Receives 733 Business Plan Proposals for Economic Growth in African Communities (08/13/09)

Washington, D.C. and Denver, Colo.. – The inaugural African Diaspora Marketplace (ADM) closed its call for proposals and has exceeded expectations by collecting 733 business proposals.  The ADM is a business entrepreneurship program fostering economic development ideas from U.S.-based African Diaspora to create plans for sustainable start-up and established businesses in 19 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.  A collaboration between Western Union and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the ADM aims to leverage the know-how and commitment of Diaspora communities to help address poverty and unemployment issues in the region. (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

U.S. Embassy Provides Grants for Cultural Preservation in Harar (06/25/09)

Public Affairs Counselor Michael McClellan (C) addresses guests at the signing ceremony.

On Thursday, June 25, the U.S. Embassy and the Harari Culture, Tourism, and Information Bureau, signed two agreements on cultural preservation in Harar. Signatories for the two organizations were Mr. Michael McClellan, Counselor for Public Affairs at the U.S. Embassy, and Mr. Yimaj Idris, Head of the Bureau. The event took place at the Teferi Mekonnen Palace in the Jugol area of Harar. Representing U.S. Ambassador Donald Yamamoto, Mr. McClellan signed the first grant from the U.S. State Department’s ‘Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation’, which provides USD $35,000 to preserve the Teferi Mekonnen Palace. (read more)  -- e-mail us your comments --

First Private Health Sector Exhibition Held in Addis  (06/05/09)

Partial view of the Private Health Sector Exhibition

FRIDAY, JUNE 5, 2009 (Addis Ababa) – The United States Agency for International Development (USAID)’s Banking on Health Project, funded by the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), is sponsoring today the first ever national Private Health Sector Exhibition in Ethiopia.  Following the theme of “Strengthening and Growing Private Practices in the Fight Against TB & HIV/AIDS”, the exhibition will provide a unique opportunity for nearly 200 representatives of private health clinics, hospitals, supply companies, and financial institutions to meet and share information in support of the growth of a high quality, affordable private health sector responsive to the needs of Ethiopians. (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

Innovative Program Fills Health Care Void

Rahel Terefe (r) is part of a movement of health officers being trained to help fill the void of health care professionals in Ethiopia.

Ethiopia faces a chronic shortage of human resources in the health sector.  Those in the health sector struggle with alarming health conditions.  The country has one of the highest newborn mortality rates in the world.  One in six children dies a preventable death before they reach the age of five.  Acute lack of access to health care has been leading many Ethiopians of all ages to die of common illnesses, leaving the life expectancy at only 41 years. Since 1997, the Ethiopia Public Health Training Initiative (EPHTI) has helped to address these alarming health issues through a landmark partnership between the Government of Ethiopia, seven Ethiopian universities, 21 Ethiopian hospitals, The Carter Center, and USAID.  The initiative is making a true difference in the delivery of health care in Ethiopia.   By enhancing the quality of pre-service training for health staff, more and more Ethiopians are receiving better health care services. (read more)  -- e-mail us your comments --

USAID Provides Additional 87,910 Metric Tons of Emergency Food Aid (05/15/09)

USAID has provided an additional 87,910 metric tons of emergency food aid, valued at approximately U.S. $50 million, to the Joint Emergency Operational Plan in response to the Ethiopian Government’s January 2009 appeal. This emergency food aid will provide a full ration to 1.18 million beneficiaries for four months in 72 woredas in the most severely impacted regions – Afar, Amhara, Oromiya, Somali, Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples, and Tigray Regions and in Dire Dawa Administrative Council. Catholic Relief Services will manage the assistance, which will be implemented by a consortium of NGOs including CARE, Food for the Hungry International, Relief Society of Tigray, Save the Children-UK, Save the Children-US, and World Vision. (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

Renovated Wahil Clinic to Improve Community Health Care (05/27/09)

Dr. Tsigereda Kifle, Head of the Dire Dawa Health Bureau, and Ambassador Yamamoto cut the ribbon to open the Wahil health clinic, renovated by U.S. Africom's Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA).

Dire Dawa, Ethiopia – American and Ethiopian partners dedicated a newly renovated health clinic at Wahil, outside Dire Dawa, on May 27, 2009.  Service members of the United States’ Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) worked with local contractors, Yauuea Construction Company, PLT, to renovate the clinic as part of our two countries’ ongoing partnership to improve health care and livelihoods for local communities. At the dedication ceremony, United States Ambassador to Ethiopia, Donald Yamamoto, stressed the importance of working together to improve health infrastructure.  Echoing his words, Colonel Lorrie Oldham of CJTF-HOA said this project demonstrates the positive benefits of the Ethiopian-American partnership and the benefits it brings to the lives of people across the region.  The Ambassador and the Colonel joined regional and local officials to dedicate the new facility. (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

 

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U.S. and Ethiopian Experts Share Best Practices to Improve Water Resource Management (05/13/09)

Scientists participating in the advanced hydrologic modeling course pose for a group photo with the Minister of Water Resources, U.S. Mission officials and visiting American water experts

ETHIOPIA - For the last two weeks a team of American water resource experts have taught 15 engineers, hydrogeologists and hydrologists from various Ethiopian government agencies a course on advanced hydrologic modeling.  This course, the first of three, will help prepare the participants to be Ethiopia’s key water experts and is part of a larger U.S-Ethiopian partnership to assess the country’s water resources for future development. The United States and Ethiopian Governments recently agreed to lay the groundwork for a watershed management study of the Ogaden region in southern Ethiopia. In January 2009, the two governments signed a Letter of Implementation for the “Groundwater Exploration, Assessment and Mapping” of the watersheds within the Ogaden.  (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

 

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Clean Ethiopia, Clean Earth: U.S. Embassy Launches New Recycling Program (04/22/09)

Ambassador Yamamoto and Aquapure owner Mohammed Seid at the launching ceremony.

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On Earth Day 2009, the United States Embassy in Addis Ababa launched a program to recycle the plastic bottles used in our offices and employees’ homes.  The program will facilitate the reuse of the crushed plastic and help keep Addis Ababa clean by reducing waste. Ambassador Donald Yamamoto and Embassy employees officially kicked off the program on April 22 at the Embassy compound.  Ambassador Yamamoto said, “As residents of Addis Ababa and members of the community, it is our duty to help keep the city clean.  The Embassy recycling program is an important ‘green’ step to that end.”  He encouraged embassy employees and their family members to protect the environment by reducing, reusing, and recycling materials whenever possible. (read more)  -- e-mail us your comments --

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Working Together to Fight Malaria
By Donald Yamamoto, U.S. Ambassador to Ethiopia

For about half the world’s population, malaria remains one of the greatest threats to public health. It is a disease that causes poverty, disrupts the livelihood of families, and far too often, steals the future of Africa's children. In tropical Africa, the disease kills nearly 3,000 people each day with young children and pregnant women at greatest risk. World Malaria Day is observed April 25 to call attention to the disease and to mobilize action to combat it. On behalf of the American people, the U.S. government has taken extraordinary steps to curb the spread of this preventable and curable disease. The President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI), led and implemented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) with the assistance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), represents a historic $1.2 billion, five-year expansion of U.S. government resources to fight malaria in Africa. (full Text)  -- e-mail us your comments --

Milestone in New Embassy Construction (04/20/09)
Ambassador Tops Out Concrete on Largest U.S. Embassy in Sub-Saharan Africa

Ambassador Donald Yamamoto tops out concrete on the new U.S. Chancery under construction.

On Monday, April 20, 2009, U.S. Ambassador Donald Yamamoto assisted construction crews in the final concrete placement on the roof structure of the new chancery under construction on the existing U.S. embassy compound along Entoto Road.  The event also marked the “Topping Out” milestone of the superstructure for the largest U.S. chancery in sub-Saharan Africa.  The ambassador was accompanied by the DCM, and representatives of Embassy offices and agencies, including USAID and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) who will relocate to the new chancery when completed in September 2010.  The $126.5 million project.  An American contractor, B.L. Harbert International, LLC based out of Birmingham, Alabama, is building the U.S.$126.5 million project, and employing more than 600 Ethiopian workers as part of their work force.  In addition to employing local workers, the project will include local purchases in the range of more than U.S.$5 million.”  -- e-mail us your comments --

US Government Supports Initiatives of Prevention with Positives Programs (04/21/09)

Participants in a one-day workshop on April 21 reviewed a draft of the Ethiopian Prevention with Positives strategic framework, with the aim of better integrating the PwP program into established programs addressing prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT) and sexually transmitted infection (STI). The workshop also set a platform for the development of a plan to adopt HIV-prevention materials for use by non-health professionals.  (read more)  -- e-mail us your comments --

A Day for Feasting and Fun: Embassy Volunteers Share Easter Cheer, Traditions (04/16/09)

Easter party volunteers from the U.S. Embassy

In both the United States and Ethiopia, Easter is an important holiday when Christian families spend time together and feast.   While the spirit of the holiday is the same in both countries, the celebrations are quite different, especially for children.  Many American children, in addition to going to Church, visiting relatives and eating a special meal like Ethiopian children, spend Easter day playing games like “hunting” for hidden “Easter eggs” in the garden.  And while many Ethiopian children wake up to new clothes for the holiday, American children crawl out of bed to find baskets of treats that have been delivered during the night by a mysterious creature, “the Easter Bunny.” (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

Business Form Discussed AGOA and WTO Activities in Ethiopia (03/31/09)

USAID Mission Director Glenn Anders (C) speaks at the Forum.

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As his last public speaking event before departing Ethiopia, USAID Mission Director Glenn Anders addressed the private sector at the USAID Business Forum on March 31 at the Sheraton Addis.  He discussed the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and World Trade Organization (WTO) activities, telling the Forum participants that “there is still room to take advantage of the benefits under AGOA, which will help you earn foreign currency, create jobs, and boost profits.”  He also urged the private sector not to think of WTO accession as an end in itself, but “as a means to jump start economic development”.  USAID has supported the VEGA Ethiopia AGOA Plus project since 2005, helping link Ethiopian producers to American buyers.  Last year, Ethiopian exports to the U.S. under AGOA doubled to U.S.$18 million.  The American Chamber of Commerce in Ethiopia was also launched this year, and will further scale up trade between the U.S. and Ethiopia.  Meanwhile, Ethiopia is moving towards accession to the WTO, which will create a more predictable, secure business environment for investors.  -- e-mail us your comments -- 

Working Together to Save Newborn Lives (03/16/09)

Ambassador and Mrs. Yamamoto and Meseret Defar visit with patients and staff at the Kangaroo Mother Care unit of the Black Lion Hospital’s neo-natal care department.

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Olympic Gold Medalist and six-time World Record Holder in the 5,000 meter run, Meseret Defar, U.S. Ambassador Donald Yamamoto, Save the Children, and Ministry of Health staff came together today at the Black Lion Hospital to promote the use of low cost methods of reducing infant mortality. Ethiopia has one of the highest newborn mortality rates in the world, with 120,000 babies dying annually.  Two-thirds of those deaths occur in the first 24 hours of life, and the majority of deaths are a result of treatable and preventable conditions. According to Professor Bogale Worku, Head of the Department of Pediatrics and Child Health at Addis Ababa University, “Ethiopia is working hard to meet the millennium goal of reducing under-five mortality by two-thirds, but without more emphasis on newborn mortality we will not make it.”  Professor Bogale continued, “It is the right of every child to survive, develop, and be part of the future of Ethiopia.” (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

On Women’s Day, U.S. Honors Female Students for Work to Fight HIV/AIDS (03/05/09)

U.S. Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission, Deborah Malac, giving an award to one of the winners.

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In a ceremony at the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa on Thursday, March 5, the U.S. Government presented awards to female students who have excelled at fighting HIV/AIDS and gender-based violence.  The event, hosted by the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), marked International Women’s Day and celebrated the U.S.-Ethiopian partnership to combat HIV/AIDS and gender-based violence. The U.S. Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission, Deborah Malac, presented awards to girls who have worked courageously to fight HIV/AIDS through involvement in their schools’ "mini-media.”   The top three winners were selected from more than 60 nominees from 20 public high schools around Addis Ababa. (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

Ethiopian AGOA Exports Show over 100% Annual Increase in 2008 (02/24/09)

FEBRUARY 24, 2009 - Continuing a trend of  accelerated growth, Ethiopian exports to the United States under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) in 2008 more than doubled from 2007. From January to December 2008, Ethiopia’s AGOA exports reached USD $18 million, surpassing USD $8.9 million in AGOA exports during the 2007 calendar year.  Total Ethiopian exports to the U.S. also rose 172 percent, to USD $152 million from USD $88 million the year before.  (read more)  -- e-mail us your comments --

U.S. Embassy hosts a panel discussion on civil rights movement (02/10/09)

On February 10, members of government, the opposition, religious and civil society leaders, University officials and students, attended a Black History month panel discussion sponsored by the U.S. Embassy in association with Addis Ababa University (AAU).  Panel members included U.S. Ambassador to Ethiopia Donald Y Yamamoto, AAU President Professor Andrias Eshete, AAU Professor Abiye Ford, and U.S. Speaker guest of honor Ambassador George W. Haley, former U.S. Ambassador to the Gambia and brother of Alex Haley.

Drawing on personal experiences the discussion, entitled “The Civil Rights Movement: From Martin Luther King to Barack Obama”, spoke to how the movement benefited all minorities and how the inclusion and encouragement of all citizens – regardless of their race, ethnicity or gender – strengthens and enriches a nation.  (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

Financing Reform Aims to Improve Quality of Health Services (01/16/09)

On January 16, 2009 the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Abt Associates, Inc., launched the Ethiopia Health Sector Financing Reform Project.  The U.S. $15 million dollar project, which focuses on health care financing reform and health insurance, will improve the lives of over 40 million Ethiopians in the next five years by improving quality of health services, increasing access to health care and improving the utilization of modern health care. (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

New Peace Corps Volunteers Start Work in Ethiopia (02/13/09)

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Thirty Eight new Peace Corps Volunteers were officially sworn in for duty in Addis Ababa Ethiopia on Friday, February 13, 2009 after taking an oath that they will work with their Ethiopian partners in friendship and in peace.  The volunteers will work in Amhara, Oromia, Tigray and SNNP Administrative regions, focusing on the prevention, care and support and orphan and vulnerable children on HIV/AIDS. (read more) -- e-mail us your comments --

Launch of American Chamber of Commerce in Ethiopia (01/12/09)
Heralds New Era in Trade Cooperation

AmCham President Ato Getachew Ayele, surrounded by AmCham board members and supporters, grants Ambassador Yamamoto honorary membership.

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Minister of Trade and Industry Girma Birru and U.S. Ambassador to Ethiopia Donald Yamamoto today joined the board of the newly established American Chamber of Commerce in Ethiopia for the organization’s official launch.  The American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in Ethiopia aims to promote economic development by strengthening Ethiopian-American business partnerships and trade and investment between the two countries.  (read more)  -- e-mail us your comments --

 

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New Lagoda Mirga Health Outpost to Improve Community Health Care (01/09/09)

Dire Dawa, Ethiopia – American and Ethiopian partners dedicated a newly renovated health outpost at Lagoda Mirga Kebele on January 9, 2009.  Service members of the United States’ Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) renovated the clinic as part of our two countries’ ongoing partnership to improve health care and livelihoods for local communities. (read more)  -- e-mail us your comments --

Great Ethiopian Run launches 2nd edition of EDUCATION FOR GIRLS Series (01/06/09)

Athlete Meseret Defar

Great Ethiopian Run, an Ethiopian NGO known for its annual international 10km road race in Addis Ababa, has launched the 2nd edition of a series of community runs to promote messages about EDUCATION FOR GIRLS. The 2009 series is a continuation of a project started last year when three big community races were held in Afar, Jijiga and Jinka. The first run in the 2009 series takes place in Gambella on Saturday 10th January 2009 with other runs planned for Asosa (25 January) and Jijiga (1 February). (read more)  -- e-mail us your comments --

Embassy Community Shares Holiday Joy Through Donations to Community (01/02/09)

A U.S. Marine hands out toys on January 2

This holiday season, employees and families at the U.S. Embassy in Ethiopia collected and donated 54 boxes of gifts, toys, and hygiene items to children in need.   The Embassy’s Community Liaison Office led the drive to collect gifts, and the U.S. Marines’ annual “Toys for Tots” charity tradition bolstered the effort.  On January 2, 2009, U.S. Ambassador Donald Yamamoto led a group of community members to deliver gifts at four locations around Addis Ababa: Daughter of Charity; Kechene Orphanage; Mission of Charity Rehabilitation Center; and Godanaw Rehabilitation Integration Project. (read more)  -- e-mail us your comments --