Meqoamia

Advocacy meeting with Taskforce, health officials of AAFMHACA, EFDA, sub-cities, and woreda (province) officials for political support
2023-06-26 08:00 - 2023-06-27 17:00 UTC
The workshop took place on June 26, 2023, at Tolip Olympia Hotel, Addis Ababa. It was organized to introduce Lideta and Gullele sub cities FMHACAs to the taskforce and review progress report from Arada SC FMHACA and present it to the newly added Lideta and Gullele sub cities. The advocacy meeting brought stakeholders from Mayor Office, EFDA, AAFMHACA, Sub Cities FMHACAs, and Law and enforcement office. its expected outcome was to full political support and prioritization of AASFI. The advocacy meeting was organized into two main sessions. Presentations and participants’ discussion. The first session started with introductions and presentations from MCDO about the general activity of MCDO followed by presentations on 10 months progress report from Arada FMHACA. The advocacy meeting was served as a platform to introduce Lideta and Gullele sub cities to AASFI task force. Stakeholders’ discussion led by Ms. Elias, Ashenafi (AAFMHACA), and Molla (AAFMHACA) was conducted and reflections and answer on the questions and comments were communicated.

አለም አቀፍ የአደገኛ እፅ አላግባብ መጠቀምን እና ህገወጥ ዝውውርን መከላከል ቀን International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking
2023-06-27 08:00 - 17:00
June 26 /2023
አለም አቀፍ የአደገኛ እፅ አላግባብ መጠቀምን እና ህገወጥ ዝውውርን መከላከል ቀን
International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking
መከላከልን ከርኅራኄ ጋር፡፡
“ሱሰኝነት የምንከላለውና ማገገም የሚችል የአንጎል ህመም ነው!”
ሃገር ማለት ሰው ነው!
የዘንድሮው International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking
መሪ ቃል፡-
People first: stop stigma and discrimination, strengthen prevention”
#ቅድሚያ ለሰው! ፡- አድሎ እና መገለል ይቁም ! ፣ ቅድመ መከላከልን እናጠናከር! – የአደገኛ ዕፅ ተጠቃሚና ሱሰኞችን በአክብሮት እና እክብካቤ ማከም ፣ ማስረጃ ላይ የተመሰረተ ለሁሉም የበጎ ፈቃድ አገልግሎት መስጠት ፣ የቅጣትና ማስተማሪያ አማራጮችን መጠቀም ፣ መከላከልን ማስቀደም እና ግንዛቤን ማሳደግ ላይ ታስቦ የተዘጋጀ ነው። ከርኅራኄ ጋር፡፡
የዓለም የአደገኛ ዕፅ ችግር በዓለም ዙሪያ በሚሊዮን የሚቆጠሩ ሰዎችን አደጋ ላይ የጣለ ውስብስብ ጉዳይ ነው ። አደገኛ መድኃኒቶችንና ዕፆችን የሚወስዱ ሰዎች አካላዊና አእምሯዊ ጤንነታቸው አደጋ ላይ ከመውደቅ በተጨማሪ የሚያስፈልጋቸውን እርዳታ እንዳያገኙ እንኳ ያሉበት ችግር ሊያግዳቸው ይችላል ።
በዚህም የተባበሩት መንግስታት ድርጅት የአደገኛ መድኃኒቶችና ወንጀሎች ቢሮ (UNODC) – በሰብአዊ መብት ፣ ርህራሄ እና በማስረጃ ላይ በተመሰረተ ተግባራት ላይ ትኩረት በማድረግ የአደንዛዥ ዕፅ ፖሊሲዎችን በህዝብ ላይ ያተኮረ አቀራረብ የመከተልን አስፈላጊነት ተገንዝቧል።
“ጥላታችን በሱስ ህመሙ ላይ እንጅ ሱሰኛው አይደለም !”
መቋሚያ የማህበረሰብ ልማት ድርጅት
ሰኔ 17 /2015 – 24 June 2023
People first: stop stigma and discrimination, strengthen prevention”

Joint on-site visit with EFDA, FMHACA, Police, law enforcement, MCDO and MWECS on Arada, Kirkos, Lideta and Gullele sub-cities
2023-08-04 08:00 - 17:00 | AddIs Ababa, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
The joint on-site visit has taken place on August 4, 2023. This kind of on-site visit is an integral joint visit of stakeholders. It is organized in the context of a joint or integrated on-site visit of stakeholders in Arada, Kirkos, Lideta and Gullele sub-cities, where progress of establishments and adherence to the proclamation 1112/2019 is observed on spot. The on-site visit gathered stakeholders of AASFI together and its expected outcome is to ensure the establishment’s adherence to SF requirements. The on-site inspectors were from EFDA, FMHCA, Arada FMHCA, Kirkos FMHACA, Lideta and Gullele, and MCDO. During the inspection, the visitor team observed that most of district 3, 5 and 9 establishments in satisfactory state in adhering to the SF requirements. The team was grateful about the work done in Arada visiting the aforementioned provinces. In Kirkos sub city, what the team has observed was a success story in most follow up cases but need work in districts adjust to the aforementioned ones, especially district 3. The overall on-site visit was finalized by hearing feedback from the participants and having a meal together which yielded a fruitful discussion over lunch, especially about strengthening and integrating the tobacco steering committee (task force) by including the newly added sub cities, Lideta and Gullele. Further discussion and progress review was made in MCDO office among staff.

Joint on-site visit with EFDA, FMHACA, Police, law enforcement, MCDO and MWECS on Arada, Kirkos, Lideta and Gullele sub-cities
2023-08-04 08:00 - 17:00

Advocacy meeting with Mayor’s office, Police Commission, Code enforcement bureau, and women and youth bureau to support strong enforcement of SF provisions
2023-08-25 08:00 - 2023-08-30 17:00
The advocacy meeting with Mayor’s office took place on August 25, 2023, at Kenna Hotel, Addis Ababa, in a progress review meeting set up. The progress review and discussion targeted creating and sustaining high political commitment among higher officials and prioritising SF implementation and compliance as an expected outcome. This meeting specifically, aspire to see the engagement of Mayor office in AASFI strengthen and deepened. This program gathered participants from AASFI stakeholders, EFDA, AA-FMHACA, AA Code Authority, CTFK representative, MCDO, and Addis Media Network. The meeting was organized into two main sessions. The first session started with introductions and an opening speech from AAFMHACA and MCDO. The short introduction was followed by a presentation from MCDO, Lideta, and Gullele sub cities. The presentations were followed by panel discussions, which was further extended to questions and reflection sessions from the participants. After the panel discussion, final remark on the overall program was given and closed thereafter.

Advocacy meeting with Mayor’s office, Police Commission, Code enforcement bureau, and women and youth bureau to support strong enforcement of SF provisions
2023-08-25 08:00 - 2023-08-30 17:00 | Kenna Hotel, Bole, Addis Ababa

Enhancing media coverage of SF implementation by engaging MCDO’s existing media and other media broadcasts
2023-09-05 08:00 - 2023-09-13 17:00
A briefing meeting with media was held on September 5, 2023 at the MCDO office in Addis Ababa. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss ways to enhance media coverage of the implementation of the Smoke-Free (SF) policy to a wider audience. The expected outcome is to create mass awareness, especially through well-known media outlets.
The meeting was attended by representatives from various media outlets, including television, radio, and print. Ethiopian Press, Reporter Magazine, Addis Media Network (AMN), Maleda Radio, Awash Radio, Addis Admas Magazine, and Roha Media were all represented.
After a fruitful discussion, the participants agreed to establish a media team that would meet regularly to discuss media coverage of the SF policy implementation. This team will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies to raise awareness of the policy and its benefits.
The media team will also work to create a mass awareness campaign around the slogan, “It is my natural right to live in an environment 100% free of tobacco smoke.” This campaign will support the efforts of the Addis Ababa Smoke-Free Initiative (AASFI) and the MCDO to create a healthier and more smoke-free city.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from all participants to work together to raise awareness of the SF policy and its benefits. The media team is confident that they can make a significant contribution to this effort and help to create a healthier and more smoke-free Addis Ababa for all.

Advocacy meeting with Taskforce, health officials of AAFMHACA, EFDA, sub-cities, and woreda (province) officials for political support
2023-10-31 08:00 - 2023-11-06 17:00, 2023-11-03 08:00 - 17:00 | Cassiopeia Hotel, Bole, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
The workshop took place on October 31, 2023, at Cassiopeia Hotel, Addis Ababa. It was systematized to engage with AAFMHACA officials, Arada, Kirkos, Lideta and Gullele sub cities FMHACA officials and professionals. It is already known that, because of the frequent turn over and reshuffling of AAFMHACA office the members of the taskforce may not last longer. Therefore, reviewing its members and welcoming the new ones should be done once in a while.
This time, we used the platform to understand what the newly structured AAFMHACA office with its respective responsibilities look like. Under the new restructuring the tobacco team is organized under health and food related items. Previously, it was not difficult to contact a focal person for tobacco related issues. Because they have their tobacco committee with a focal person assigned, the communication was smooth and friendly. Now, we need to go down all the hierarchy to reach out the person in charge of the tobacco and SF implementation. Mr. Molla, AAFMHACA representative and tobacco focal person to be explained the gap in the restructuring and how to communicate accordingly. The advocacy meeting brought stakeholders from EFDA, AAFMHACA, Sub Cities FMHACAs. its expected outcome was securing full political support and prioritization of AASFI.

Organize and conduct sensitization workshops for health inspectors, Woreda (province) professionals, and law enforcement officials on SF provisions and SF enforcement strategies,
2023-11-20 08:00 | Kena Hotel, Addis Ababa.
The workshop took place on October 20, 2023, at Kena Hotel, Addis Ababa. It was organized to gather directors of AASFI tobacco sector from the four sub cities, Arada, Kirkos, Lideta, and Gullele FMHACA’s. Among the participants, most of them are newly appointed officials. The sensitization workshop gathered directors from the aforementioned sub cities and its expected outcome was to ensure professional’s sensitization about significance and content of SF provision. The participants were AAFMHACA, Police and law enforcement, Arada-FMHCA director, Kirkos-FMHCA director, Lideta director, Gullele director, CTFK representative and MCDO.
The workshop was organized into three sessions, three presentations and participants’ discussion. The first session started with introductions and presentations from MCDO about the general activities of MCDO, and MCDO full package which was followed by presentations on the overall activities of AASFI and the structure of the newly stablished office structure by Molla, AASFI tobacco director. The workshop was a great input in onboarding the newly appointed directors both from AAFMHACA and sub cities. AASFI endeavors were presented to bring the participants to one page. Then, stakeholders’ discussion led by Ms. Elias, Miressa – AAFMHACA, and Sister Bedria – AAMHACA was conducted and reflections and answer on the questions and comments were communicated.

Strengthen SF youth clubs in selected high schools in three sub-cities in Addis Ababa city
2023-12-18 08:00 - 2023-12-20 17:00 | Arada Sub City, Addis Ababa,
The report of the activity “Strengthening SF Clubs” outlines the progress made in strengthening smoke-free youth clubs in selected high schools across three sub-cities in Addis Ababa city. The project has successfully engaged with high school students, implemented educational initiatives, and provided awareness creation resources (IEC/BCC materials) to promote smoke-free environments. The impact of these efforts has been significant in raising awareness and fostering a healthier lifestyle among the youth. It is recalled that recently MCDO included the activity of SF implementation in schools. Last time, it was started with Assy Public School in Kirkos sub city. Now, the activity is expanding to other sub cities. Under this activity, strengthening SF clubs was executed in three schools found in Arada sub city. Namely, Belay Zeleke, Kelemework, and Minilik the 2nd schools. It is recalled that youth who did not pass the National Exams are very much vulnerable to addiction and related health hazards. Therefore, focusing on the upcoming generation is vital direction to handle youth healthier lifestyle before complications.

Enhancing media coverage of SF implementation by engaging MCDO’s existing media and other media broadcasts
2023-12-19 08:00 - 2023-12-20 12:30 | MCDO office, Bole
The media meeting highlights the efforts to enhance media coverage of smoke-free implementation by engaging the organization’s existing media outlets and other media broadcasts. The project successfully leveraged the organization’s media resources to raise awareness and promote smoke-free initiatives. Additionally, collaboration with external media broadcasts expanded the reach of the campaign. The report also outlines the challenges faced, such as limited resources and competition for media attention, and provides recommendations for future efforts, including diversifying media partnerships and optimizing existing resources for maximum impact. Telegram, YouTube, and WhatsApp were chosen from social media to be the best outlets for media engagement. Community radios, Fm radios and newly introduced AAFMHACA magazine were selected to broadcast TC project and related updates

Joint on-site visit with EFDA, FMHACA, Police, law enforcement, MCDO and MWECS on Arada, Kirkos, Lideta and Gullele sub-cities Venue: Arada and Kirkos Sub Cities
2024-02-01 08:00 - 2024-02-14 17:00
The joint on-site visit has taken place on February 1, 2024. This kind of on-site visit is an integral joint visit of stakeholders to visit establishments on site and inspect thereon. It is organized in the context of a joint or integrated on-site visit of stakeholders in Arada, Kirkos, Lideta and Gullele sub-cities, where progress of establishments and adherence to the proclamation 1112/2019 is observed on spot. This inspection was conducted on Arada and Kirkos sub cities. The on-site visit gathered stakeholders of AASFI together and its expected outcome is to ensure the establishment’s adherence to SF requirements. The on-site inspectors were from EFDA, AAFMHCA (now AAFDA), Arada FMHCA, Kirkos FMHACA, and MCDO. Half of the participants from AAFMHACA are new to such activities. Thus, this is a good platform to work in joint. The overall on-site visit was finalized by hearing feedback from the participants and having a meal together which yielded a fruitful discussion over lunch, especially about engaging the newly appointed FMHACA sub city branch officials and police. Further discussion and progress review was made in MCDO office among staff.

Advocacy meeting with Mayor’s office, EFDA, AAFMHACA, Police Commission, Code enforcement bureau, and women and youth bureau to support strong enforcement of SF provisions
2024-02-06 08:00 - 2024-02-11 17:00
The advocacy meeting took place on February 6, 2024, at Cassiopeia Hotel, Addis Ababa. The workshop was organized in a presentation and stakeholders decisive discussion set up. The presentation and discussion aimed at creating and sustaining high political commitment among higher officials and prioritising SF implementation and compliance as an expected outcome. This outcome is much needed because AAFMHCA (recently, on the way to change its structural name to AAFDA (Addis Ababa Food and Drug Authority)) has gone through structural reform twice. This meeting specifically, aspire to see the engagement of Mayor office in AASFI strengthen and deepened. Unfortunately, due to the city’s preparation to host the African Union program, the mayor office representative could not make it for the meeting. The meeting gathered participants from AASFI stakeholders, EFDA, AA-FMHACA, Arada, Kirkos, Lideta and Gullele sub cities, and MCDO.

Support AAFMHACA, EFDA, and other law enforcement officials with daytime inspection and SF enforcement visits in Arada and Kirkos sub-cities selected districts: – March 4 and 5, 2024 - Arada and Kirkos Sub Cities
2024-03-04 08:00 - 17:00
This grant report summarizes the night inspections conducted in Gullele and Lideta sub-cities, focusing on the outcomes and actions taken during the inspection process. March 4 and 5, 2024, night time inspection was conducted in Gullele and Lideta sub-cities. This inspection is the third night time inspection to be conducted among the four inspections planned in the 21-months project. A thorough orientation was given to district professionals and focal persons on March 1, 2024. A thorough discussion were raised concerning legal measurement due to the nature of night inspection considering safety and legal measure execution. The inspections aimed to ensure compliance with regulations and promote a safe and conducive environment for residents and visitors. The outcomes of the night inspections underscore the importance of enforcing regulations and holding establishments accountable for compliance with guidelines. Continued monitoring and enforcement efforts are essential to maintain standards and promote a safe and healthy environment in Gullele and Lideta sub-cities. This report highlights the significance of night inspections in upholding regulations, ensuring compliance, and fostering a culture of accountability among establishments in Gullele and Lideta sub-cities. Continued vigilance and enforcement will be crucial in sustaining a safe and compliant environment for all residents and visitors

Dire Dawa Tobacco Smoke free Initiative.
2024-03-28 - 2024-04-27
Advocacy meeting with health officials of Dire Dawa FMHACA, and province officials for political support of SF implementation. At Dire Dawa City – 2024,03,28

World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) 2024 at Adwa Victory Memorial Museum, Pan Africa Hall, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
2024-05-16 08:00 - 2024-05-30 17:00 | Adwa Victory Memorial Museum, Pan Africa Hall, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
A city-wide anti-tobacco and anti-drug campaign was launched in city level in line with World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) 2024 at Adwa Victory Memorial Museum, Pan Africa Hall, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Addis Ababa City Administration Food and Drug Authority (AAFDA), Ethiopian Food and Drug Control Authority (EFDA), and the Health Development and Anti-Malaria Association (HDAMA), with MWECS, and Meqoamia Community Development Organization (MCDO) coordinated this city-wide anti-tobacco and anti- drug movement with the motto “Let’s protect children from the interference of the tobacco industry” in the presence of more than 2000 people. This is 2024’s WNTD motto. AAFDA General Manager Ms. MuluEmebet Tadese said in her speech on the official launch of the city-wide movement, Tobacco has a negative impact on the health and beauty of the city of Addis Ababa, which is contrary to her name Addis Ababa (New Flower). She said that it will cause social, economic and environmental damage. In places where smoking and use of tobacco products are prohibited, the positive changes are very promising. The tobacco industry’s intervention and control activities are also being carried out despite the wide range challenges. Mrs. Buzena Alkadir, Chief Speaker of Addis Ababa City Administration, who was the guest of honour at the program held at Adwa Victory Memorial Museum Pan Africa Hall, communicated that, “In order to make our society a part of the movement to prevent tobacco and tobacco smoke, there will be large-scale movements to increase the participation of the society in the future, mainly: controlling the distribution of tobacco. Furthermore, he pointed out that taking constructive measures against illegal tobacco dealers and users, and expanding counselling and rehabilitation centres for our people who are victims of addiction for various reasons will make restoration of healthy and productive life and generations.

Support AAFDA, EFDA, and other law enforcement officials with daytime inspection and SF enforcement visits in Arada and Kirkos sub-cities selected districts
2024-07-12 08:00 - 2024-08-01 17:00
On July 12-13, 2024, a daytime inspection was conducted in Arada sub city. This marked the third daytime inspection in these areas and served as the final inspection for the 21-month Tobacco Control (TC) project. On July 19, 2024, a comprehensive orientation was provided to district professionals and focal persons. During this session, key topics were discussed, including the inspection checklist, legal measures for enforcement, and logistical considerations for the inspection process. MCDO collaborated closely with the Addis Ababa Food and Drug Administration (AAFDA) and the sub-city AAFDA branches throughout the inspection activities.
Despite facing challenges in both sub-cities, the Tobacco Control initiative has shown promising progress, particularly in raising awareness among the community, as observed in previous inspections. However, managing such a large sub-city within the allocated budget presents ongoing difficulties. Certain legal matters require attention, and some areas continue to be hotspots for violations against smoke-free implementation. Recognizing these challenges, MCDO is committed to working closely with the relevant government bodies to address these issues and enhance compliance efforts in the identified problematic areas.

CTFK/GHAI Team Engages with EFDA Director General Ms. Heran Gerba
2024-07-15 08:00 - 2024-07-29 17:00 | EFDA
Visit Summary: CTFK/GHAI Team Engages with EFDA Director General
Following a productive site visit at the MCDO office, the CTFK/GHAI team, which included representatives from MCDO and CTFK Ethiopia, led by Mr. Bruck, had the opportunity to meet with Ms. Heran Gerba, the Director General of the Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA).
During the meeting, Ms. Heran warmly welcomed the team and provided an insightful overview of the inception, processes, and expansion of the AASFI initiative. The discussion also addressed several key issues raised by the CTFK/GHAI team, demonstrating a collaborative effort towards improving public health.
In recognition of their unwavering support and commitment to mitigating the hazardous effects of tobacco, MCDO awarded the CTFK/GHAI team a certificate of appreciation. This gesture underscores the importance of continued partnerships in the fight against tobacco-related harm.
We look forward to further collaboration and progress in our shared mission

Organize and conduct sensitization workshops for health inspectors, Woreda (province) professionals, and law enforcement officials on SF provisions and SF enforcement strategies
2024-08-29 08:00 - 2024-09-26 17:00 | AAFDA
The sensitization workshop commenced on August 29,2024 with Mr. Molla, the tobacco focal person from AAFDA, introducing the overall objectives of the session. Following this, Mr. Elias, MCDO executive director, provided insights into the ongoing progress of AASFI and our aspirations for the initiative’s future. The first presentation was delivered by Esisha Mengistu, a project officer from MCDO, focusing on AASFI’s progress over the past 14 months, including opportunities, challenges, and a promising outlook. Mr. Molla then presented on the progress of activities across all sub-cities involved in AASFI, including those where MCDO is active.
After the presentations, stakeholders engaged in a discussion, highlighting the following key points: In conclusion, Mr. Assefa, the current director of AAFDA, addressed the raised issues and officially closed the meeting. The sensitization workshop facilitated a productive dialogue between MCDO and AAFDA, resulting in a significant agreement to collaborate on upcoming activities in the new Ethiopian year. This collaboration aims to create a cohesive approach to the Tobacco Control (TC) project.

MCDO Recognized for Addis Ababa Smoke-Free Efforts.
2024-09-05 08:00 - 2024-09-08 17:00
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

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.

High-level Advocacy Meetings with City Leadership, EFDA, AAFDA, and CSOs
2026-02-23 08:00 - 2026-04-08 14:00
Meqoamia Community Development Organization (MCDO) conducted a high-level advocacy meeting with key decision-makers, including the Addis Ababa Mayor’s Office, the Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA), the Addis Ababa Food and Drug Authority (AAFDA), the Police Commission, Sub-city Administrators, Sub-city key tobacco focal persons, and leading civil society organizations. These meetings, held in February 23,2026, aimed to strengthen political commitment and institutional coordination to achieve and sustain at least 90% compliance with Smoke-Free Environment (SFE) and Tobacco Advertising, Promotion, and Sponsorship (TAPS) provisions under Proclamation No. 1112/2019. During the sessions, MCDO presented updated compliance data, identified enforcement gaps particularly in the previous sub cities (namely Kirkos and Lideta) and proposed integrated joint inspection mechanisms under the Addis Ababa Smoke-Free Initiative on Kolfe-keranio, Gullele, and Arada sub cities.

Targeted Daytime Inspections Conducted in Kolfe Keranio Sub-City to Strengthen Tobacco Control Enforcement
2026-03-12 - 2026-03-13 | Kolfi Keraniyo Sub city
March 12–13, 2026 | Kolfe Keranio Sub-City, Addis Ababa
Targeted daytime inspections were successfully conducted in Kolfe Keranio Sub-City as part of Strategy 3.1 under the Addis Ababa Smoke-Free Initiative (AASFI). The activity aimed to strengthen systematic inspection and enforcement mechanisms to achieve at least 90% compliance with Smoke-Free Environment (SFE) and Tobacco Advertising, Promotion, and Sponsorship (TAPS) regulations.
The inspections were jointly implemented by Meqoamia Community Development Organization (MCDO) and the Addis Ababa Food and Drug Authority (AAFDA), Kolfe Keranio Branch, in line with the Food and Medicine Administration Proclamation No. 1112/2019.
A total of 36 public-serving establishments, including restaurants and cafés, were inspected. The exercise focused on assessing compliance with smoke-free regulations, including the presence of active smoking, visibility of “No Smoking” signage, and any evidence of tobacco advertising or promotional materials. Standardized inspection tools were used to ensure consistency, transparency, and accountability throughout the process.
As a result, 18 establishments were issued written warnings for non-compliance, accompanied by on-site corrective guidance. The findings indicate a moderate level of compliance, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and enforcement to achieve full regulatory adherence.
The activity also contributed to increased awareness among business owners and staff regarding tobacco control regulations. In several cases, immediate corrective actions were observed, including the removal of ashtrays and commitments to enforce smoke-free rules within premises. Strengthened collaboration between MCDO and AAFDA was also noted as a key outcome of the joint implementation.
However, the exercise also revealed several operational challenges, including restrictions on paper-based enforcement tools due to ongoing smart city transitions, absence of responsible managers during inspections, and information leakage between establishments, which affected the element of surprise in enforcement activities.
Moving forward, the program will focus on follow-up inspections, improved coordination mechanisms, and the introduction of digital inspection tools aligned with the smart city system. Strengthening accountability and ensuring the presence of responsible personnel during inspections will also be prioritized.
These efforts are expected to further enhance enforcement effectiveness and contribute to the broader goal of achieving a smoke-free Addis Ababa through sustained compliance with SFE and TAPS regulations.

Targeted Daytime Inspections Conducted in Kolfe Keranio Sub-City to Strengthen Tobacco Control Enforcement
2026-03-12 08:00 - 2026-03-13 17:00
