Ethio-pandemic multi-sectoral prevention, preparedness and response in Ethiopia

The Ethio-Pandemic Multi-Sectoral Prevention, Preparedness, and Response Project (EPPR) aims to strengthen Ethiopia’s ability to prevent, detect, and respond to pandemics by enhancing surveillance systems, improving national laboratory capacities, and ensuring the availability of skilled One Health professionals.

Implementation and key components

The project will be guided by a Joint Coordination Committee (JCC), composed of government and partner organization representatives. The JCC will oversee the project, track progress through a joint Monitoring and Evaluation framework, and ensure alignment with Ethiopia’s national health plans and international assessments.

Strengthening surveillance and early warning
This component focuses on creating an integrated electronic reporting system, conducting risk assessments for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats, and enhancing surveillance in humanitarian settings and at points of entry.

Building laboratory capacity
The project will support the expansion of laboratory infrastructure, procure essential equipment, and develop One Health guidelines. It aims to map and upgrade 2,500 human and 218 veterinary labs for better pathogen detection and response.

Strengthening the workforce
This component includes training programs for healthcare and veterinary professionals, focusing on emergency management, zoonotic disease prevention, food safety, and environmental health.

Communication and education
Efforts will be made to improve risk communication to the public and key stakeholders, combat misinformation, and promote preventive measures within communities during health emergencies.

Expected outcomes

With a USD 50 million Pandemic Fund grant and USD 63 million in co-financing, the EPPR Project is expected to significantly enhance Ethiopia’s pandemic preparedness and response. Targets include training 6,870 professionals, mapping 2,500 labs, establishing 15 AMR sentinel sites, and improving surveillance at 45 hospitals and multiple points of entry.