EFDA and EPPAD Sign Historic Collaboration Agreement
In a momentous step forward, the Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA) has joined hands with the Ethiopian Pharmacists and Pharmaceutical Scientists Association in the Diaspora (EPPAD), based in Virginia, USA, signing a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This landmark agreement, celebrated with great enthusiasm, is set to transform Ethiopia’s healthcare sector by fostering regulatory excellence and innovation.
The signing ceremony, held on January 28, 2025, in Addis Ababa, was filled with optimism and a sense of shared purpose. EFDA Director General Heran Gerba, speaking warmly and with evident pride, highlighted the profound significance of this collaboration. She gratefully acknowledged EPPAD’s past contributions and expressed heartfelt excitement about the new opportunities this partnership will bring. “This agreement is not just a document; it’s a bridge to a brighter future,” she said, her voice brimming with hope. “By working together, we can strengthen Ethiopia’s regulatory framework and move closer to our vision of becoming a center of excellence in Africa.” She emphasized that EPPAD’s members, with their wealth of expertise and experience, will play a crucial role in shaping this journey, ultimately benefiting both the healthcare industry and the public.
On the other side of the partnership, Dr. Alex Akalu, EPPAD’s regulatory team leader, spoke with equal passion and gratitude. “This initiative by EFDA is a powerful reminder of how much we, as diaspora professionals, can contribute to our homeland,” he said, his words reflecting a deep sense of pride and commitment. He reaffirmed EPPAD’s unwavering dedication to supporting EFDA’s mission, calling the partnership a meaningful platform for Ethiopians abroad to give back to their country.
