EFDA Launches 7th Edition of Ethiopia’s Essential Medicines List
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – March 11, 2025: The Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA), in collaboration with stakeholders, has launched the 7th Edition of the Ethiopian Essential Medicines List (EML) to enhance access to safe, effective, and quality medicines.
Seyoum Wolde EFDA Deputy director general of medicine sector emphasized that the updated EML aligns with WHO’s latest model list, ensuring that Ethiopia adopts global best practices while addressing the country’s unique healthcare needs. He highlighted the inclusion of the AWaRe classification system for antibiotics, which plays a key role in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
“The 7th edition of the Essential Medicines List is a reflection of our commitment to promote rational medicine use. This update is based on scientific evidence and national health priorities, ensuring that Ethiopians have access to the most effective treatments available,” he stated.
Dr. Bejoy Namibar from WHO praised Ethiopia’s continuous efforts in updating its essential medicines policy and reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting Ethiopia in strengthening pharmaceutical governance, improving medicine accessibility, and combating health challenges such as AMR.
During the launching ceremony Dr. Shemsu Umer from EFDA provided a detailed review of the changes made in the 7th Edition, including newly added medicines, updated treatment protocols, and prioritization of essential drugs to better address Ethiopia’s healthcare needs. and Mr. Girma Tekle from Addis Ababa University shared key findings from an assessment of the 6th Edition’s utilization in healthcare facilities across Ethiopia. His analysis identified gaps in medicine availability, prescribing patterns, and areas requiring improvement, which helped shape the latest revisions.
