Meqoamia

Outreach meeting for Taskforce, WHO, AAFMHACA and Arada, and other sub-city’s health and law enforcement officials to ensure prioritization and continued political support
2023-02-16 08:00 - 2023-02-17 17:00 UTC | Momona Hotel
This workshop was entitled “Outreach meeting for Taskforce”, which consisted EFDA, AAFMHCA, and Mayor Office, Arada FMHCA, AA Code enforcement, and MCDO, and its expected outcome was to create political support and awareness creation on the SF environment. It took place on February 16, 2023, at Momona Hotel, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The workshop was organized in two main sessions. Presentations from MCDO and AAFMHACA and the second session were dedicated to stakeholders’ discussion. Ms. Heran (EFDA) and Ms. Tigist (AAFMHACA) reflected on the questions raised by participants and added further points regarding the topics raised. The workshop was organized into three presentations and stakeholders’ discussion. The first session started with introductions and presentations from AAFMAHCA, MCDO and Arada and Kirkos FMHACA. The short introduction by Ms Tigist (AAFMHACA) was followed by presentations on bi-annual report review from Arada and Kirkos. The participants reflected on the discussion points and other outstanding agenda. The meeting was productive since it was able to generate the need for a larger stakeholders meeting.

Joint on-site visit with EFDA, FMHACA, Police, code enforcement, MCDO, and MWECS in Arada, Kirkos, and Bole sub-cities
2023-02-23 08:00 - 2023-03-15 17:00
The joint on-site visit has taken place on February 23, 2023, at Arada and Kirkos sub-cities, Addis Ababa. This on-site visit was an integral on-site visit of to observe progress of establishments and adherence to the proclamation 1112/2019 led by higher officials from EFDA and AA-FMHACA. This team consisted members from higher officials to district professionals. It assembled stakeholders of AASFI together and its expected outcome was to ensure the establishment’s adherence to SF requirements. The on-site inspectors were from EFDA, FMHCA, Arada FMHCA, Kirkos FMHACA, and MCDO.
This on-site visit included Ms Heran, EFDA Director General, and other AAFMHACA higher officials. Ms Heran, as she is a vital figure in the AASFI activities joined us in observing the progress of establishments. Her visit with the team was encouraging to the professionals and helped us to deal with the cases practically and observe the challenges and opportunities of AASFI physically.

capacity building - staff training
2023-02-28 - 2023-03-01

Organize and conduct sensitization workshops for health inspectors, Woreda (province) professionals, and law enforcement officials on SF provisions and SF enforcement strategies
2023-06-16 08:00 - 13:00
The workshop took place on June 16, 2023, at Province 9 meeting, Addis Ababa. It was organized to review progress report from Arada and Kirkos SC FMHACA’s and present it to the newly added Lideta and Gullele sub cities. The workshop gathered professionals 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 Police and law enforcement, Arada-FMHCA, Arada Province professionals, Kirkos-FMHCA, Kirkos Province professionals, and MCDO.
The workshop was organized into three presentations and participants’ discussion. The first session started with introductions and presentations from MCDO about the general activity of MCDO by Mr. Elias, MCDO executive director, which was followed by presentations on the five years strategic planning and 21 Months action plan of by Esisha, MCDO project officer. The workshop was a great input in onboarding Lideta and Gullele sub cities into the AASFI endeavors in an integrated manner.
The participants reflected on the discussion points and other outstanding agenda. The meeting was productive since it was able to make Lideta and Gullele passionate about the work they are going to do. Final remarks were given by Mr. Elias. The workshop was finalized by taking a group photo together.

World No Tobacco Day (WNTD May 31,2023
2023-06-20 08:00 - 17:00
World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) is WHO initiated annual event which takes place every year on May 31. The event is named “World No Tobacco Day”. This year WNTD 2022 is entitled “We Need Food Not Tobacco”. It took place in different activities both indoor and outdoor. The indoor activities include workshop, panel discussion, and stakeholders’ meetings. The outdoor activities include public exhibition, mass awareness creation programs, and group walking on the main streets of Addis Ababa. This year’s event and press released was decided to be replaced by other activities that engage the community at large level. Workshops and panel discussion in every sub city was organized in the context of creating mass awareness and emphasizing on this year’s WNTD motto, We Need Food Not Tobacco. The variety of events and activities gathered a wide range of stakeholders in AASFI and others together and its expected outcome was to create mass awareness and advocate for the need of food than tobacco. The participants were EFDA, FMHCA, MCDO, MWECS, HDAMA, Sub cities, Youth associations, Volunteers, and different media.

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
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.

International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. At Addis Ababa Ethiopia
2024-06-26 08:00 - 2024-07-02 17:00 | mogenoria Hotel
“The evidence is clear: invest in prevention”
The global drug problem presents a multifaceted challenge that touches the lives of millions worldwide. From individuals struggling with substance use disorders to communities grappling with the consequences of drug trafficking and organized crime, the impact of drugs is far-reaching and complex. Central to addressing this challenge is the imperative to adopt a scientific evidence-based approach that prioritizes prevention and treatment.

Statistic: Over 3 million annual deaths due to alcohol and drug use (Source: WHO 2024 report)
Key Point: Substance abuse is a significant global public health problem.
Raise awareness: Increase understanding of the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of evidence-based prevention strategies, emphasizing their impact on mitigating the harms of drug use.

Advocate for investment: Encourage greater investment in prevention efforts by governments, policymakers, and law enforcement professionals, highlighting the long-term benefits of early intervention and prevention.
Empower communities: Equip communities with the tools and resources to implement evidence-based prevention initiatives, fostering resilience against drug use and promoting community-led solutions.
Facilitate dialogue and collaboration: Promote dialogue and collaboration between stakeholders to enhance evidence-based prevention practices and policies, fostering a supportive environment for knowledge sharing and innovation.
Promote evidence-based policymaking: Advocate for evidence-based policymaking at the national and international levels, ensuring that drug policies are grounded in scientific research and informed by best practices.
Engage communities: Raise awareness about the importance of community engagement and participation in designing and implementing effective drug prevention programs, empowering communities to take ownership of prevention efforts.
Empower youth: Provide youth with the knowledge, skills, and resources to become agents of change in their communities, advocating for drug prevention initiatives and amplifying their voices in the conversation.
Promote international cooperation: Foster international cooperation and collaboration among governments, organizations, and communities to develop and implement evidence-based strategies for combating drug trafficking and organized crime, recognizing the global nature of the drug problem and the need for coordinated action. sources :- https://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/drugs/index-new.html

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

Grant Visit of CTFK/GHAI to MCDO Office: A Productive Day of Collaboration
2024-07-29 08:00 - 17:00
On July 15, 2024, the MCDO office had the honor of hosting representatives from the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (CTFK) and the Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI) for a full day of engagement and collaboration. This visit marked an important milestone in the ongoing partnership aimed at promoting public health initiatives, particularly under the Addis Ababa Smoke-Free Initiative (AASFI). The day began with a warm welcome from MCDO’s Executive Director, Mr. Elias Kalayu. In his opening remarks, Mr. Kalayu expressed gratitude for the continued support and collaboration from CTFK and GHAI. He emphasized the importance of collective efforts in fighting tobacco use and promoting healthier communities. Following the welcome, Sara Duguma provided an insightful overview of MCDO, detailing its mission, vision, and the significant walks made in recent years. Her presentation set the stage for a deeper understanding of MCDO’s role in public health and community engagement. Esisha Mengistu, Project Officer of MCDO, then took the floor to discuss the progress of the AASFI project. He highlighted key achievements over the past three years, showcasing the impact of the initiative on reducing tobacco use and enhancing community awareness. The presentation was well-received, sparking interest and questions from the CTFK/GHAI representatives. Bereket Tebeje followed with a comprehensive insight into budgeting, resource allocation, and financial sustainability were crucial in demonstrating MCDO’s commitment to transparency and effective project management.
Each presentation was accompanied by a lively Q&A session, allowing for in-depth discussions and clarifications. The representatives from CTFK and GHAI posed thoughtful questions, which led to a fruitful exchange of ideas. This dialogue not only enhanced understanding but also fostered a collaborative spirit among all participants. The visit culminated in a productive goal-setting discussion. Participants reflected on the insights gained throughout the day and collaboratively identified future aspirations for the AASFI project. This forward-looking approach is essential for ensuring the sustainability and effectiveness of initiatives aimed at reducing tobacco use and promoting public health. As the visit wrapped up, there was a tangible sense of optimism regarding the future of the AASFI project. The collaboration between MCDO, CTFK, and GHAI promises to yield significant benefits for public health in Addis Ababa. With renewed commitment and shared goals, all parties left the meeting inspired and ready to tackle the challenges ahead.

Addis Ababa Smoke free initiative (AASFI). Tobacco control (TC) Night Inspections.
2024-08-03 08:00 - 17:00
MCDO plays a pivotal role in supporting the Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA), the Addis Ababa Food and Drug Administration (AAFDA), and the AAFDA branches of Gullele and Lideta sub-cities, as well as law enforcement officials, by facilitating nighttime inspections. MCDO has proactively engaged with officials from various sectors to ensure their participation in the inspection process within the selected districts of Gullele and Lideta. During this third interim period, conducted on July 25-26,2024 the inspections focus on evaluating the ongoing implementation of smoke-free policies. Key activities include verifying the proper posting of no smoking signs, ensuring the removal of designated smoking areas (DSAs), and confirming compliance with all necessary tobacco control prerequisites. On July 25-26, 2024, a nighttime inspection was conducted in Gullele and Lideta sub-cities. This marked the third nighttime inspection in these areas and served as the final inspection for the 21-month Tobacco Control (TC) project. On July 24, 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. During the on-site inspections and accompanying meetings, Information, Education, and Communication/Behaviour Change Communication (IEC/BCC) materials, as well as No-Smoking signs, were distributed. Establishments that had not displayed the No-Smoking coloured stickers were provided with new stickers and re-educated on the importance of posting them in visible locations.

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
