EFDA’s International and National Recognitions Reinforce Its Vision to Become a Center of Regulatory Excellence in Africa
Addis Ababa, June 2, 2025, The Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA) has demonstrated its strong institutional capacity and commitment to regulatory advancement by attaining 48 national and international accreditations and recognitions—solidifying its vision to become a continental center of regulatory excellence in Africa.
This remarkable achievement was celebrated during a recognition ceremony held in Addis Ababa, where EFDA was honored for securing accreditations in key areas such as food production, post-market surveillance, and laboratory testing of medicines and medical devices. These recognitions were awarded by both the Ethiopian Accreditation Service and the U.S.-based ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB).
Delivering remarks at the event, Her Excellency Dr. Mekdes Daba, Minister of Health, emphasized that these international recognitions represent a significant advancement not only in EFDA’s institutional capacity but also in the country’s broader public health efforts. She highlighted that this milestone marks a critical step in strengthening Ethiopia’s disease prevention and control mechanisms.
Dr. Mekdes further noted that with improved regulatory quality and institutional competence, EFDA is positioning Ethiopia to become a nationally and globally competitive regulatory body, moving closer to achieving “Maturity Level 3”—a global benchmark for robust regulatory oversight.
Her Excellency Frehiwot Abebe, State Minister of Health, officially opened the ceremony and praised the systematic and strategic efforts undertaken to enhance the country’s regulatory systems. She congratulated EFDA on securing both newly acquired and long-standing recognitions, calling the achievement a source of national pride.
In his address, His Excellency Dr. Dereje Duguma, also State Minister of Health, acknowledged the effort and dedication behind this milestone. He stressed the importance of sustaining the momentum through continued commitment and resilience.
EFDA’s Director General, Heran Gerba, underscored that the achievement was the result of collaborative efforts, with vital contributions from internal teams, external stakeholders, and the consistent support of the Ministry of Health’s leadership. She expressed her heartfelt appreciation to all who played a role in reaching this goal.
During the ceremony, certificates of appreciation were awarded to departments, institutions, and individuals who made significant contributions toward obtaining the accreditations and advancing EFDA’s regulatory excellence.
