ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA – MCDO
The Meqoamia Community Development Organization (MCDO) is proud to announce that it has been officially selected as the host organization for the ISSUP Ethiopia National Chapter, following a landmark agreement with the International Society of Substance Use Professionals (ISSUP). This milestone marks a significant leap forward in the organization’s long-standing commitment to public health protection, substance use prevention, and community empowerment in our country.

Core Focus Areas of the ISSUP Ethiopia National Chapter (What the Chapter Will Do):
This newly established national chapter will execute the following strategic and high-impact activities in the country:
Capacity Building for Professionals: Empowering professionals and community-based workers engaged in substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery through international standard modern training programs and frameworks.
Raising Awareness and Community Education: Conducting awareness-raising forums, workshops, and educational campaigns to foster a deep public understanding of addiction and related social issues.
Establishing a Robust Professional Network: Creating a reliable platform for local and international professionals, institutions, and stakeholders to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and collaborate effectively.
Research and Policy Support: Consolidating evidence-based data and studies to provide guidance for decision-makers and policy makers, while supporting the realization of national public health policies.
Strategic Significance of the National Chapter:
Beyond our national vision, the establishment of this chapter carries multifaceted strategic benefits:
National Significance: Serves as a vital foundation for coordinating efforts to prevent substance use in Ethiopia, developing sustainable solutions, and aligning the capacities of professionals in the field.
Continental Significance: Strengthens collaboration with pan-African networks and national chapters in other countries, forging strong continental partnerships regarding public health and substance use prevention strategies.
Global Significance: Opens broad doors to introduce international best practices into the country, join global networks, and strengthen our national representation on international platforms.

MCDO remains committed to working hand-in-hand with ISSUP to build professional capacities in Ethiopia and drive initiatives that ensure a safe, healthy, and resilient community.
MCDO