Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — As part of its steadfast commitment to fostering a healthy, productive, and tobacco-free society, the Meqoamia Community Development Organization (MCDO) actively participated in the regular quarterly meeting of the National Tobacco Control Coordinating Committee. Convened on July 14, 2026 at the Best Western Plus Addis Hotel in Addis Ababa, the high-level gathering brought together key sector institutions, government representatives, and public health stakeholders to review national milestones and strategic priorities.
The meeting served as an essential platform for member institutions of the National Committee to present comprehensive performance reports detailing their institutional contributions toward nationwide tobacco control enforcement and public health protection.
Key Milestones and Achievements Discussed
During the session, participants evaluated remarkable progress achieved across multiple strategic pillars:
- Sustainable Financing: The successful establishment of a dedicated federal budget line and allocation specifically designated for tobacco control activities, demonstrating robust government ownership.
- Packaging and Labeling Regulations: The active implementation and roll-out of the 4th round of pictorial health warnings (PHW) on all cigarette packaging to effectively communicate health risks.
- Smoke-Free Public Spaces: A monumental expansion in enforcement, with over 107,000 public and institutional establishments successfully designated and maintained as smoke-free nationwide.
- Illicit Trade Prevention: Significant regulatory advancements regarding the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products (ITP), which has now reached its final approval phase.
MCDO’s Ongoing Commitment
MCDO remains deeply dedicated to working hand-in-hand with the Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA) and national civil society partners. By driving community awareness, supporting smoke-free environment policies, and reinforcing regulatory compliance, MCDO continues to champion initiatives that safeguard public health across Ethiopia.
As the National Tobacco Control Coordinating Committee moves into the next quarter, participating organizations reaffirmed their resolve to accelerate policy implementation and enhance public education campaigns. Together with government authorities and community stakeholders, MCDO is proud to contribute to building a healthier generation for the future.
MCDO