ADDIS ABABA – The 10th Ethio Health International Exhibition and Congress, featuring more than 90 international companies, officially opened today at the Addis International Convention Center. The event is being held alongside the 2nd Local Medical Product and Innovation Exhibition.
Jointly organized by the Ministry of Health, the Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI), and Prana Events, this major platform brings together companies from eight countries. Over the next three days, the exhibition is expected to introduce new medical technologies and locally manufactured products to the domestic market, while fostering knowledge and technology transfer among professionals.
During the opening ceremony, H.E. Dr. Mekdes Daba, Minister of Health, urged manufacturers and importers to operate with accountability. “We should be guided not by private interest and gain, but by a compassionate heart for our people and a sense of responsibility,” she stated. The Minister added that the sector’s goal is to ensure sustainability and protect the community from unnecessary medical expenses.
This year’s program includes more than 40 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training sessions designed to build the capacity of health professionals, the 3rd Digital Health Hackathon, and various scientific forums. At the same time, the 2nd Local Medical Product and Innovation Exhibition provides an opportunity for domestic pharmaceutical manufacturers and technology innovators to showcase their products.
Professor Afework Kassu, Director General of the Armauer Hansen Research Institute, emphasized that dependency is not only an economic issue but also a matter of health security, dignity, and national resilience. “Countries that do not generate knowledge, exercise effective control, and ensure quality will always remain dependent,” he noted.
Professor Afework further stated that the current question is not “what should be done?” but rather “are we ready to move immediately with commitment, honesty, and discipline?” He urged that the congress serve as a historical turning point to move from discussion to action and from ambition to execution.
