ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA – On 20th May 2025, an international clinical trials day is globally observed; Ethiopia marked a defining moment in its public health journey. Lead by the Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI) of the MOH and other local institutions, the country officially launched the Clinical Trials Network in Ethiopia (CTN-ET)—a coordinated, forward-looking platform that aims to support transforming the country’s clinical trial ecosystem.
The two-days hybrid event, hosted by AHRI, brought together more than 200 experts who are delegates from MOH, regulators, clinical trial sites, universities and teaching hospitals, professional societies, community representatives, researchers, CROs, accredited laboratory service providers, funders, institutional leaders, insurance providers, funding agencies, partners, Af CDC, WHO and more.
Prof. Afework Kassu, Director General of AHRI, reflected during his welcome address, “Today marks more than the launch of a network—it is a commitment to Ethiopia’s scientific self-determination.” He noted that Ethiopia’s ability to shape health solutions must come from within, powered by local expertise, guided by ethical & scientific rigor, and rooted in national priorities. He also emphasized that CTN-ET stems directly from AHRI’s national mandate, as outlined in Council of Ministers Regulation number 530/2023. This includes leadership and capacity building of the Clinical Trials and bioequivalence activities and shaping the ecosystem.
One of the most significant accomplishments spotlighted during the launch was Ethiopia’s attainment to Regulatory Maturity Level 3 in the clinical trials oversight function and plans to further achieve more— this maturity signals Ethiopia’s readiness to host high-quality multi-center trials and fast-track ethical and regulatory review processes. This advancement, as explained by Ms. Heran, DG of the EFDA, is not just symbolic. “Good Clinical Practice is not optional—it’s essential,” she noted, adding that the country’s investment in oversight mechanisms, staff development, and digital systems is now bearing fruit. She also noted EFDA’s commitment to strengthening collaboration and making concerted efforts to improve Ethiopia’s clinical trials ecosystem. She affirmed EFDA’s full support for CTN-ET.
International partners echoed the importance of anchoring clinical trial leadership within Africa itself. Dr. Patrick Avoc from Health Emergencies Preparedness and Response Lead at WHO Ethiopia country office reminded participants that clinical trials must be more than academic exercises—they must be inclusive, locally relevant, and equitably managed. “This network can become a global model,” he said, citing Ethiopia’s diversity and readiness as powerful advantages.
He also asserted that “Inclusivity in clinical trials is not only a matter of equity: it is a scientific imperative. Without inclusive data, we risk developing solutions that are incomplete, or worse, ineffective for entire segments of our populations.”
Dr. Abok lauded Ethiopia’s robust response to the COVID-19 pandemic under AHRI’s leadership, highlighting the country’s capability to participate in global research efforts with scientific rigor and ethical standards. He noted that the establishment of CTN-ET signifies a continuation and amplification of this momentum.
Dr. Mosoka Papa Fallah of Africa CDC underscored the critical link between Ethiopia’s Clinical Trials Network (CTN-ET) and continental health security. In a stark warning, he framed clinical trial capacity as a lifeline for Africa.
“Clinical trials are not merely academic exercises—they are essential tools for pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response. If we don’t prepare for outbreaks, the outbreak takes care of itself. When the outbreak takes care of itself, many innocent people die.”
He highlighted Africa’s vulnerability, noting the continent’s reliance on “the goodwill of others” for medical countermeasures during crises like Ebola and Mpox. To break this cycle, he urged:
“Networks like CTN-ET are not a luxury. Building capacity now—before the next crisis—is the only way to ensure Africa’s readiness to protect its people.”
Dr. Mekonnen Teferi, Director of the Clinical Trials Directorate at AHRI, introduced the network, describing CTN-ET as a collaborative mechanism designed to coordinate, streamline, and elevate clinical research efforts. This will be achieved by fostering partnerships among clinical trial sites, research institutions, academia, regulators, ethics committees, NGOs, pharmaceutical companies, and healthcare workers.
He added, the network’s overarching aspiration is to position Ethiopia as a leading hub for high-impact clinical trials, driving equitable health solutions across Africa.
