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2025 Global One Health Day Observed in Jigjiga, Ethiopia: Fostering Collaborative Resilience
In Jigjiga, located in Ethiopia’s Somali Region, the 2025 Global One Health Day was commemorated under the theme “Enhancing One Health Partnerships for Sustainable Community Resilience.” This significant event united a diverse array of stakeholders, drawing over 100 participants from various sectors to emphasize the critical importance of integrated health approaches.
Multisectoral Gathering of Leaders and Experts
The forum featured prominent figures including H.E. Mr. Ahmed Yasin Shek Ibrahim, representing the Somali Region President’s Office; H.E. Dr. Mesay Hailu, Director General of the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI); and Mr. Mohammed Ayanle Hassan, Deputy Head of the Somali Region Health Bureau. Attendees spanned federal ministries, regional agencies, academic institutions, community groups, UN bodies, donors, development partners, and civil society organizations, reflecting the broad coalition necessary for One Health success.
Key Calls to Action from WHO Ethiopia
Ms. Senait Tekeste of the World Health Organization (WHO) Ethiopia outlined three pivotal strategies to advance One Health initiatives:
- Enhance cross-sector collaboration: She urged continuous coordination, transparent communication, and joint strategic planning. A priority highlighted was the adaptation of the national One Health Strategy into actionable regional frameworks, alongside bolstering surveillance systems to better anticipate and manage health emergencies.
- Invest in interdisciplinary education and capacity development: Emphasizing the revision of curricula and training programs across human, animal, and environmental health disciplines, Ms. Tekeste stressed the necessity of knowledge exchange to curb zoonotic disease transmission and promote ecosystem health.
- Utilize cutting-edge technologies: She advocated for integrating data streams from human and veterinary health sectors, employing advanced modeling tools to detect emerging zoonotic threats promptly and enhance response capabilities.
Leadership Perspectives on Integrated Health Security
In his keynote, Dr. Mesay Hailu highlighted the interconnected nature of contemporary health challenges, stating:
“Issues like zoonotic infections, antimicrobial resistance, and climate-induced health risks demand a unified approach. Strengthening partnerships across human, animal, and environmental health sectors is vital to cultivating resilient communities and safeguarding our shared health security.”
Supporting this vision, H.E. Mr. Ahmed Yasin Shek Ibrahim reiterated the Somali Region’s dedication to the One Health framework:
“This occasion serves as a powerful reminder to renew our joint efforts across disciplines to protect the wellbeing of our people, animals, and environment. The regional government is committed to transforming the One Health concept into tangible, impactful actions.”
Showcasing Progress and Innovations
The program included insightful addresses from government representatives, international donors, UN agencies, academic experts, and development partners. Updates on the advancements of national and regional One Health platforms were shared, with leaders affirming their resolve to embed One Health principles institutionally within the Somali Region. The event was co-hosted by WHO and financially supported by the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO).
Interactive Workshops and Community Engagement
Post-session activities featured dynamic workshops presenting exemplary practices and novel methodologies for operationalizing One Health at grassroots and regional levels. A gallery walk exhibition allowed partners and local organizations to display successful projects and collaborative frameworks, illustrating the tangible benefits of integrated health strategies.
Concluding Panel: Operationalizing One Health in Ethiopia
The day culminated with a panel discussion focused on practical steps to embed One Health approaches nationwide. Technical presentations and open forums facilitated knowledge exchange among specialists from human, animal, and environmental health sectors, fostering a shared commitment to advancing Ethiopia’s health resilience.
Looking Ahead
As zoonotic diseases continue to pose global threats-accounting for over 60% of emerging infectious diseases worldwide-Ethiopia’s proactive embrace of One Health collaboration exemplifies a forward-thinking model. By integrating expertise and resources across disciplines, the Somali Region is positioning itself to better anticipate, prevent, and respond to complex health challenges, ultimately enhancing the wellbeing of its communities and ecosystems.
