Congratulations Mr. Elias Kalayu: National Recognition for Leadership in Public Health
The Meqoamia Community Development Organization (MCDO) is proud to announce that our Executive Director, Mr. Elias Kalayu, has been honored with a Certificate of Recognition from the Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA) and the Ministry of Health (MoH).
Championing Public Health and Policy Integrity
This prestigious award recognizes Mr. Elias’s significant contributions to protecting public health policies from tobacco industry interference, ensuring strict adherence to Proclamation No. 1112/2019. His work has been instrumental in safeguarding the integrity of health regulations and prioritizing the well-being of the Ethiopian people over commercial interests.
Official Statement from the Executive Director
Reflecting on this milestone, Mr. Elias Kalayu shared his gratitude:
“I am deeply honored to receive this Certificate of Recognition from the Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA) and the Ministry of Health (MoH) for my contributions to protecting public health policies from tobacco industry interference, in accordance with Proclamation No. 1112/2019.
I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to State Minister of Health, H.E. Dr. Dereje Duguma, and EFDA Director General, Heran Gerba, for their visionary leadership, trust, and the opportunity to contribute to this vital national cause.
This milestone is a proud reminder of the impact we can achieve through multi-sectoral collaboration to safeguard the health of our nation.”
Our Continued Commitment

State Minister of Health, H.E. Dr. Dereje Duguma, EFDA Director General, Heran Gerba
and Executive Director of MCDO, Mr. Elias Kalayu,
MCDO remains steadfast in its commitment to working alongside government partners and health authorities. This recognition serves as a testament to our organization’s dedication to building a healthier, more transparent, and resilient future for all Ethiopians.
Ethiopia Tobacco Control, Policy Integrity
