Meqoamia

MCDO Recognized for Addis Ababa Smoke-Free Efforts.
2024-09-05 08:00 - 2024-09-08 17:00 UTC
Addis Ababa Smoke Free Initiative (AASFI) Achieves Milestone!
We’re thrilled to announce that MCDO’s efforts to create a healthier Addis Ababa have been recognized by the AAFDA. For their invaluable contributions to our smoke-free city initiative, MCDO received a certificate of appreciation from AAFDA Director Mrs. Mulumebet.
Together, we’re building a cleaner, healthier future for all. #AddisAbaba #SmokeFreeCity #MCDO #AASFI

Joint on-site visit with EFDA, AAFDA, Police, law enforcement, MCDO and MWECS on Arada, Kirkos, Lideta and Gullele sub-cities – September 24, 2024 -Gullele and Lideta sub cities
2024-09-24
This report summarizes the findings from a joint on-site visit conducted in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to assess the compliance of various establishments with Proclamation 1112/19 regarding tobacco regulation. The inspection was carried out by a collaborative group consisting of the Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA), Addis Ababa Food and Drug Authority (AAFDA), the Ministry of City Development and Organization (MCDO), and representatives from the Gullele and Lideta sub-city AADFA branches. The primary objectives of the on-site visit were to: Evaluate the current status of establishments in relation to Proclamation 1112/19, Determine adherence to tobacco regulations, specifically regarding: Posting of no smoking signage, Presence or absence of designated smoking areas, and Management of cigarette butts and waste. The inspection group visited multiple establishments across Addis Ababa. The assessment criteria included: Visibility and placement of no smoking stickers, Existence of designated smoking areas, Cleanliness and management of cigarette waste, particularly the presence of cigarette butts. The on-site visit revealed a mixed level of compliance with Proclamation 1112/19 among the establishments in Addis Ababa. While many locations are adhering to the regulations, there are still significant gaps that need to be addressed to ensure a fully smoke-free environment.

Enhancing media coverage of SF implementation by engaging MCDO’s existing media and other media broadcasts
2024-10-24 08:00 - 2024-10-29 17:00 | MCDO office, Bole
On October 24, 2024, MCDO hosted a consultation meeting titled “Enhancing Media Coverage of SF implementation by engaging MCDO’s existing media and other media broadcasts” aimed at enhancing the dissemination of information regarding the Tobacco Control (TC) project and related activities. The meeting brought together representatives from various media outlets, including both government and privately owned entities, to foster collaboration and ensure effective communication about tobacco control initiatives. It aimed creating mass awareness as its expected outcome. The meeting included representatives from the following media organizations: Addis Admas, Herald, FM 97.3, Awash Radio, Reporter, Private Media Owners, Nafkot Multimedia, and Addis Media Network. The primary objectives of the meeting were: To foster MCDO’s utilization of existing media channels to disseminate timely information about the TC project. To promote cooperation in awareness creation and knowledge production regarding tobacco control. And, to clarify the role of media in supporting public health initiatives without lobbying for specific advocacy. The meeting commenced with an introduction by Sara, MCDO’s cashier and assistant to the executive director, who provided an overview of MCDO’s establishment and its involvement in the TC project under AASFI (Addis Ababa Smoke Free Initiative). This was followed by a presentation from Esisha, MCDO’s project officer, who discussed updates on the AASFI and outlined the basis for the media policy agreement in alignment with the CTFK media policy. Mr. Elias, MCDO’s executive director, underscored the significance of the meeting and provided insights into the missions of both MCDO and CTFK, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts in tobacco control.

Advocacy meeting with officials of the city administration (mayor’s office), EFDA, AAFDA, Sub Cities AAFDA branch heads.
2024-11-19 08:00 - 2024-11-26 17:00 | Triple E Hotel,, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
On November 19, 2024, an advocacy meeting was convened to galvanize political commitment from higher officials, particularly from the mayor’s office, regarding the Tobacco Control Project (TC Project). The meeting served as a platform to assess the current status of political commitment and discuss the implications of recent developments on the TC Project. The meeting was organized into two main sections: presentations and stakeholders discussion. The first presentation was delivered by the Meqoamia Community Development Organization (MCDO), which focused on the ongoing TC Project, providing recent updates and highlighting achievements as well as areas requiring further attention. Following this, representatives from three sub-cities—Gullele, Lideta, and Arada—presented their progress in implementing the TC Project, discussing their achievements, challenges faced, and proposed resolutions to overcome these challenges.
The stakeholder’s discussion was pivotal in identifying key issues affecting the TC Project. Participants assessed the current political commitment towards the TC Project, emphasizing the need for sustained support from the mayor’s office. A significant point of concern was the recent Corridor Development initiative introduced by the Prime Minister and implemented by the City Administration. This development has implications for the TC Project, particularly in areas affected by reconstruction and renovation, leading to the relocation or closure of many establishments. This situation necessitates an urgent assessment to understand its impact on tobacco control efforts.

Advocacy meeting with officials of the city administration (mayor’s office)
2025-02-28 08:00 - 2025-03-20 18:09
February 28, 2025; Harmony Hotel, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
This report summarizes the outcomes of the Advocacy Meeting held for the Tobacco Control (TC) Project, attended by representatives from the Mayor’s Office, EFDA, AAFDA, and the sub-cities of Arada, Kirkos, Lideta, and Gullele, along with MCDO. The primary objective of the meeting was to strengthen political commitment and support for the TC Project amidst ongoing urban development initiatives. The meeting was organized into three sections: an introduction and recap of previous meetings, presentations from MCDO, AAFDA, and representatives from Gullele and Arada sub-cities, and a stakeholders discussion aimed at addressing key issues and formulating actionable strategies.
The meeting produced several important outcomes. First, stakeholder discussions were essential in identifying key issues affecting the TC Project. Participants evaluated the current political commitment towards the project, highlighting the need for sustained support from the City Administration. A significant concern raised was regarding the recent Corridor Development implemented by the City Administration, which has led to the relocation or closure of many establishments, necessitating an urgent assessment of its impact on tobacco control efforts. The last meeting underscored the critical need for renewed political commitment to the TC Project amidst ongoing urban development initiatives. Future priorities emphasized the importance of prioritizing communication, integrating tobacco control measures in educational institutions, and enhancing awareness through effective materials.

Incorporating Kolfe Keranio sub city (KKSC) AAFDA branch, Community in the Tobacco Control Project.
2025-09-19 08:00 - 2025-10-02 17:00
The September 19, 2025, meeting between AAFDA, Kolfe Keranio sub city (KKSC) AAFDA branch, and MCDO marked the official inclusion of KKSC in the Tobacco Control (TC) Project. The primary goals are to create smoke-free zones, engage youth in prevention efforts, and address illicit cigarette trade. Three blocks within KKSC will be designated as smoke-free, and youth will be actively involved in anti-smoking campaigns and prevention training. These initiatives aim to reduce smoking rates, particularly among younger populations, and foster healthier, tobacco-free environments in the community. To ensure long-term success, the project will focus on community ownership and sustainability through capacity building and local leadership AAFDA, MCDO and KKSC AAFDA branch, which has created a donor account to support the initiative, are committed to providing continuous resources and training. The meeting also highlighted the importance of integrating drug prevention training as part of the broader health education efforts in KK. This comprehensive approach is designed to create a lasting impact on public health, with KK serving as a model for other communities.

Strengthening Tobacco Control Implementation and Sustainability through CSO Engagement and Strategic Alignment.
2025-09-29 08:00 - 17:00
On September 29, 2025, a coordination meeting was held at the MCDO Office with key stakeholders, including MWECS, HDAMA, CTFK, and MCDO, to discuss the Tobacco Control (TC) Project’s progress and strategy for sustainability. Key topics included reviewing the integration of the block structure with TC implementation, enhancing multi-stakeholder collaboration, and addressing the project’s current dormant phase. Despite limited resources, CSOs, especially CTFK, have made significant contributions, and the importance of diversifying funding sources was emphasized. To ensure long-term sustainability, the group recommended mainstreaming TC inspections into health systems, developing context-specific tools, and aiming for 85% activity implementation by November 2025. A joint advocacy event will be organized with MWECS and MCDO to engage key government officials, ensuring stronger institutional support for the TC project. Moving forward, revitalizing the project through strategic planning, partnerships, and resource mobilization is essential to achieving its goals.
