Addis Ababa, 24 September 2025 — The World Health Organization (WHO) has delivered 315 computers, including 165 laptops and 150 desktops, to the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) through the Pandemic Fund: Ethiopia Multi-Sectoral Prevention, Preparedness, and Response Project (EPPR). This initiative marks a significant step in strengthening Ethiopia’s capacity for pandemic preparedness, early detection, and coordinated emergency response. The new ICT infrastructure will equip Public Health Emergency Operations Centers (PHEOCs) across the country to collect, analyze, and visualize real-time data, enhancing multi-sectoral coordination and integration with national and global surveillance systems.
In addition to ICT support, WHO has provided 128 laboratory refrigerators to improve the country’s genomics and molecular surveillance of priority pathogens. These refrigerators will ensure the preservation of critical biological samples and support rapid response strategies during outbreaks, reinforcing Ethiopia’s laboratory network.
Funded by the Pandemic Fund and implemented by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with WHO, EPHI, and other UN and local partners, the EPPR Project highlights a collective commitment to building a resilient, One Health-oriented system. By investing in essential laboratory and surveillance capacities, Ethiopia is now better positioned to prevent, detect, and respond effectively to public health threats, strengthening both national and regional health security.