FORTUNE+ VIDEO SPONSORED CONTENTS ADVERTORIALS FORTUNE AUDIO Fortune Careers New TRADE AFRICA New

Fortune Logo

Author: Tizita S.

Fifty Years of Immunisation Success Call for 50 More

Posted on by Tizita S.

There is a good chance of knowing that one of the 154 million people who have been saved from preventable death by routine immunisation over the past 50 years. In the past half-century, it has been hard to identify a public health tool that has had a more positive impact than vaccination or has done more to promote global health equity.

Routine immunisation programs, once the purview of the wealthy world, now exist in every country, owing to the landmark commitment that the World Health Organization’s (WHO) member states made in 1974 to establish what is now known as the Essential Programme on Immunisation (EPI). Initially, the EPI focused on ensuring universal access to vaccines against tuberculosis, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, and measles – all preventable child killers.

Today, 84pc of children globally are immunised against these six diseases, compared to only five percent in 1974.

But progress has been hard won. After rapid gains in immunisation coverage throughout the 1980s, momentum was lost in the 1990s. The main issue was that lower-income countries lacked the resources and infrastructure needed to sustain immunisation programs. Vaccine markets were fragmented and dysfunctional: countries depended on a few manufacturers, and uncertain demand deterred new entrants.

That is where Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, came in. The organisation was established in 2000 to harness the strengths of the public and private sectors. By forging new partnerships, the thinking went, Gavi could improve access to vaccines against a broader range of infectious diseases in lower-income countries and marginalised communities. In the decades since, it has helped protect over one billion children and halve childhood mortality in 78 countries, delivering substantial economic benefits. Meanwhile, most of the countries that Gavi supports have continued to increase funding for vaccination efforts, putting such programs on a more sustainable footing and creating an entry point for other health services.

Continued progress will depend on our ability to reach these marginalised communities. Since taking over as CEO in March, my main priority has been ensuring that Gavi’s work is informed by and grounded in the needs and experiences of the communities and countries we serve.

The 50th anniversary of EPI is a fitting moment to celebrate the millions of lives saved through routine immunisation, and the health workers who have devoted considerable effort, often in the most demanding environments, to realise the EPI’s goals. But it is also an opportunity to reflect on what is yet to be done. Around one in 10 children in lower-income countries have not received routine vaccines. These “zero-dose” children are often in poor communities affected by conflict and displacement, in countries with extremely fragile health systems that provide no access to primary care.

At a time when violent conflict, geopolitical tensions, and climate change are dominating the headlines, the EPI’s anniversary should also serve as a reminder that we can still achieve world-changing results when we work together. Every vaccination offers hope for a better, healthier future. And as we stand on the cusp of a new era for immunisation, there is reason for optimism.

Since 2022, for example, a record number of people have been protected by the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which protects against the leading cause of cervical cancer. We have the ambitious goal of immunising 86 million girls against HPV in Gavi-supported countries by the end of 2025. This week, three more African countries will join Burkina Faso and Cameroon in rolling out the world’s first-ever malaria vaccine – a development that would have seemed impossible just a few decades ago.

The future of vaccines appears to be even brighter. It is possible that a new vaccine against tuberculosis — one of humanity’s oldest scourges — will be developed before the end of the decade. Looking further ahead, we could see vaccines delivered through dissolvable microarray patches instead of syringes. In the half-century since the WHO instituted the EPI, the world has shown a remarkable capacity to come together on the crucial vaccination issue.

At this moment of deepening political polarisation and global fragmentation, we must commit to another 50 years of changing the world for the better.

Sania Nishtar is CEO of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. Project Syndicate (PS) provided this article.

 

 

 

How to Rebuild Trust in Public Institutions

Posted on by Tizita S.

As voters worldwide head to the polls this year, many have lost trust in politicians and even in democracy itself. For governments, addressing public disillusionment has become an urgent priority.

How can they restore confidence in representative institutions and thus bolster the political legitimacy that elections confer?

One promising solution is to emphasise real-life interactions with constituents, helping them overcome challenges in their daily lives. France is a leading example of this approach. The way French citizens interact with their government has evolved in recent years, a shift partly attributed to the “yellow vests” (gilets jaunes) protests of 2018 and 2019. The protests, triggered by a fuel tax increase, were interpreted by officials within French President Emmanuel Macron’s government as an expression of voters’ anxiety over economic changes that they perceived as leaving them behind.

Amelie de Montchalin, then minister of Public Transformation & Service, characterised the movement as a “big cry for equality.” As outraged working-class commuters flooded the streets of Paris and other cities, the slogan “We Exist” came to be seen as a call for more accessible public services. At the same time, a widening digital divide was exacerbating existing inequalities. In response, Montchalin’s team drew inspiration from Canada’s “one-stop shop” model, which involves establishing a single, in-person access point for efficient and comprehensive public services. The goal was to ensure everyone could reach a physical “France Services” office within a 30-minute drive.

To achieve this, Montchalin’s team worked closely with local communities. A small central team issued a call for local partners to host the “France Services” offices, setting guidelines that included specific instructions about staffing hours. To avoid a one-size-fits-all approach, explained France Services Director Guillaume Clediere, branches had the autonomy to tailor services to meet the “needs of the local population” and “add other services that are locally relevant,” all while adhering to a “strict set of criteria.”

The France Services initiative aims to enable citizens needing assistance to engage with real people—generalists who can provide a human touch. These “counsellors” provide services such as health insurance, unemployment support, family allowances, and tax collection. Their role often involves providing reassurance and alleviating anxieties rather than offering specific expertise.

At a time when in-person services are rapidly being phased out in favour of digital alternatives, France Services stressed the value of human connection. While some scholars argue that digital environments enable citizens to become their own “accidental case workers,” the French initiative emphasises the importance of supportive and empathetic face-to-face interactions. This is not to say that digital services are irrelevant. Many of France Services’ offerings can be accessed online with counsellor support, and 80pc of inquiries are resolved during the initial visit.

In more complex cases, local office staff act as intermediaries, connecting users to national agencies that can provide specialised assistance.

To evaluate the success of reintroducing in-person public services, argues Clediere, we must re-examine today’s prevailing performance metrics. In-person interactions, once viewed as inefficient “friction” that online processes would overcome, are now being favored, owing to the growing number of people who benefit from direct, face-to-face assistance.

While recruiting workers to represent the “face” of the state can be challenging, France Services’ rollout has been successful. The government has surpassed its goal of opening 2,050 offices, with almost 2,700 locations now operating nationwide. These branches facilitate around 900,000 monthly interactions, achieving a reported satisfaction rate of 96pc. In the long term, however, it remains to be seen whether France Services can strengthen and maintain connectivity and trust, thereby enhancing the quality of services provided and helping to restore confidence in the state.

The perception that public institutions are accessible and beneficial is vital to democratic governance and social cohesion. By ensuring that public services operate effectively, governments help to promote a sense of community, with shared responsibilities and tangible rights. France is off to an impressive start in re-establishing a direct connection between the government and its citizens and aiming to ensure that essential services are within a 30-minute commute.

Eleanor Carter is an academic co-director of the Government Outcomes Lab at Oxford University’s Blavatnik School of Government, and Carolyn J. Heinrich is a professor of Public Policy, Education, and Economics at Vanderbilt University. This article is provided by Project Syndicate (PS).

 

 

Prosperity Party Tries Economic Tightrope Walking Without a Net

Posted on by Tizita S.

The Prosperity Party (PP) – Prosperitians – is charting a course through treacherous waters. The party, which emerged from a fragmented political order, touts a liberal economic agenda in contrast to its conservative social policies and a seemingly disoriented political posture. Despite an ideological vacuum, it has initiated substantial reforms, most notably in its economic strategy, by phasing out subsidies on essential commodities such as electricity, fuel, and college fees.

These policies are designed to target a balanced and healthy macroeconomic environment through a moderate budget deficit, aiming at long-term benefits.

However, these measures come at a delicate time, fraught with social, economic, and political volatility.

Economic policies that include austerity measures, such as cutting subsidies, tax increases, or tightening the budget, are often deemed necessary for long-term financial health. However, they demand short-term sacrifices that many citizens, especially in economically vulnerable sectors, are either unwilling or unable to make. Prosperitians believe they have a mandate to rule, having secured electoral victory in the national elections of 2021.

Nevertheless, the legitimacy of this mandate is widely contested. International observers, including the United States and the European Union, criticised the electoral process as unfair and its outcome as not credible. The failure to hold votes in tens of constituencies, including the entire Tigray Regional State, has left gaps in the federal parliament.

This political backdrop casts a shadow over Prosperitians’ economic policy decisions, whether devaluing the Birr as the ongoing negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) require or removing long-held subsidies targeting low-income groups. An incumbent party with a tenuous hold on legitimacy faces profound challenges and resistance when implementing policies that are unpopular yet deemed economically necessary.

The timing of such policies could hardly be worse in a society deeply polarised, where the political elite’s grasp on power is vigorously contested, including through violent rebellions. By the very admission of the statement issued last week by the National Security Council, several of the regional states remain battlegrounds for vertical and horizontal violent conflicts. The country is not out of the woods, not even in Tigray, where the federal government signed an accord with the TPLF in Pretoria, South Africa, to ensure a durable hold on hostilities.

Economic liberalisation measures, including the phasing out fuel subsidies, which have been implemented gradually over the past few years, illustrate the Prosperitians’ policy approach. Despite efforts by Governor Mamo Mehiretu to reorient the central bank to target inflation and price stability, the impacts on inflation have been moderate. But his move suggests that a measured approach can mitigate some of the immediate economic shocks. Monthly inflation dropped by two percentage points in March to 26pc, from an average of 33pc in the same period last year.

Yet, the broader economic context remains dire. The increase in spending has stretched the national budget. The country faces a towering budget deficit of about 284 billion Br, compelling Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s (PhD) administration to make tough decisions on public spending.

The federal government expenditures surged, driven by significant investments in social and economic services, alongside substantial regional transfers, leading to a pronounced budget deficit, inching to four percent of the GDP. The period saw social services, which include health and education, receiving a hefty 19.5 billion Br for the fourth quarter of last year, marking a notable increase from the previous fiscal year. Economic services, encompassing agricultural support, received two billion Birr, while regional transfers, intended to bolster local governments in their service delivery, stood at an impressive 64.9 billion Br. These figures reflect a government strategy deeply invested in subsidising sectors vital for growth.

The year-on-year total government spending shows a 13.1pc surge, showing growing budgetary pressures, possibly exacerbated by the rising costs of subsidised services, if not ballooning military spending. Despite a 19pc increase in revenue over the same period, it was insufficient to keep pace with the expenditure, further deepening the fiscal imbalance. The persistent deficit and heavy reliance on borrowing to finance it should pose serious questions about long-term fiscal sustainability.

With considerable funds flowing into subsidised sectors, particularly commodities such as fuel, fertiliser, and seeds, the efficiency and targeting of these subsidies demand a careful reassessment. No less is the IMF pushing for fiscal consolidation as one of the stringent conditions before agreeing to a three-billion dollar bailout to ensure a more sustainable fiscal pathway.

James Vreeland (PhD) of Princeton University, a scholar in international political economy, points out that governments often use international financial institutions like the IMF as scapegoats to deflect domestic discontent over harsh economic policies. Known for insisting on strict fiscal controls, the IMF has, in recent years, faced criticism for advocating austerity measures during periods of political and economic instability. Recognising the potential for such policies to exacerbate rather than lessen crises, the IMF has sometimes urged countries to slow the pace of austerity measures, such as subsidising essential goods.

Subsidies are commonly viewed as market distortions but provide substantial relief and economic stability to tens of millions. Countries globally, including market giants like the United States and China, inject substantial funds into their economies through subsidies ranging from fossil fuels to electric vehicle production. The debate over subsidies often centres on their long-term economic distortions against short-term social benefits.

In Ethiopia’s case, the gradual removal of these financial supports occurs against a backdrop of widespread political, economic and social crises, including an acute foreign currency shortage sufficient for only three weeks of imports, 4.6 million internally displaced citizens, and 21 million people in need of emergency humanitarian aid.

Prosperitians’ economic strategy is fraught with risk. Implementing unpopular policies under a contested mandate could ignite political instability and protests, potentially undermining their already shaky legitimacy. Public trust may erode further with each new economic policy measure, particularly as adversarial groups could seize the opportunity to fuel public discontent and challenge their authority more vigorously. The international implications are no less considerable; failed economic policies could lead to reduced financial aid and cooler diplomatic engagements, further isolating the country on the global stage.

As subsidies on electricity are set to be slashed again next year and budgetary support for universities has already been cut, the socioeconomic impacts are likely to be severe. While Prosperitians contend with these manifold troubles, the economic environment continues to be dominated by state-owned enterprises in key sectors such as finance, telecommunications, services, and logistics. The removal of subsidies, therefore, does little to promote market dynamics that could be characterised as

competitive or undistorted. The savings they crave from slashing subsidies might shift the burden to the already strained population segment in the fixed-income category.

Vreeland suggests that a deep understanding of political dynamics and public sentiment is the path forward. Effective communication about the necessity, expected outcomes, and duration of economic policies could help manage public expectations and mitigate backlash. However, seeking broader consensus through negotiated political settlements could diffuse tensions and promote a more inclusive political system. Sadly, the two-track policy Prosperitians manoeuvre – and the diplomatic community in Addis Abeba conveniently dance with – have little leverage to help bring such consensus. Whether national dialogue or transitional justice, these are platforms with hardly any credibility in the eyes of the adversaries to help bring negotiated settlements through grand bargains.

Ultimately, the intersection of contested political mandates and the implementation of unpopular economic policies presents troubled waters for any ruling party. The stakes are invariably high, with political stability and the economic future hanging in the balance. Foresight and delicate touch will be essential as Prosperitians steer through the storm, balancing the imperative of economic reform with the political and social realities of the population they govern. Gradually phasing in policies could also allow the public time to adjust, potentially softening the immediate shock and reducing backlash.

 

The Dark Side of Bias Undermine Societal Solidarity

Posted on by Tizita S.

In the daily rhythm of work and life, it is not uncommon for a single negative comment to overshadow an otherwise positive day. The tendency to dwell on the negative — a trait deeply ingrained in human psychology — plays an oversized role in shaping societal dynamics and even national policies, with consequential implications for countries like Ethiopia.

Research has consistently shown that people tend to prioritise negative information over positive, affecting everything from individual decisions to collective behaviours. From an early age, humans are more receptive to positive cues; however, this changes around the first year of life as children begin to respond more to negative stimuli. The shift suggests an inherent negative bias that emerges early in human development.

This psychological tendency is more than a matter of personal disposition. It has broader societal impacts, especially when exploited by those in positions of power. Politicians, activists, and individuals of influence often use this bias, deploying media platforms to promote their ideologies. By focusing on negative messaging, they can galvanise public attention and support for their agendas, often at the expense of social harmony.

This manipulation of public perception through negative framing has wreaked havoc on our social and economic life. The prevalence of fabricated narratives on social media has fueled political and ethical conflicts at a national level, inciting violence and deepening divisions along ethnic and religious contours. Misleading narratives easily capture public attention, stirring emotional responses that can escalate into conflict.

The role of social media in spreading these harmful narratives is particularly concerning. It amplifies negative information and accelerates its spread, quickly reaching large audiences with little oversight. As a recent incident widely shared across social networks illustrates, the dynamic can lead to tragic outcomes. An elderly man was attacked by a group of young men who appeared to have suspected his motives when he entered their neighbourhood in search of food. The assault, a direct result of entrenched hateful rhetoric, was not only a manifestation of the community’s suspicions but also a graphic example of the dangers of unchecked negative bias.

Such incidents bring to our attention the cumulative effect of negative influences, which do not surface overnight but build up over time, often influenced by repeated exposure to hateful narratives. The impact is particularly pronounced among the youth, who are more impressionable and whose worldviews are still taking shape. The long-term consequences of negativity are a fracturing of social cohesion and a decline in the once-valued ethos of solidarity and tolerance.

Addressing this challenge requires a conscientious effort to promote positive and accurate information. While disseminating false and harmful content can shift societal attitudes over time, strategically sharing truthful and uplifting messages can be equally powerful. Such efforts can help counteract the prevailing negativity, promote a more harmonious environment, and strengthen communal bonds. Eventually, citizens are responsible for cultivating a positive informational landscape.

It is crucial to lead by example and champion accuracy and positivity in public discourse, especially for those in the media, politics, and social leadership. As a society, there is a moral imperative to reject the divisive tactics often employed for political gain and to instead embrace a narrative that promotes understanding.

By committing to these principles, Ethiopians can begin to heal the divisions deepened by years of negative rhetoric. In doing so, they can pave the way for a more stable and peaceful future, ensuring that the next generations inherit a society not marked by hate but characterised by a collective commitment to upholding the dignity of every individual. Such a shift is desirable, if not indispensable, for the country’s prosperity in unity.

 

Addis Abeba’s Hidden Gems, Upscale Delights

Posted on by Tizita S.

One sunny afternoon, while my car received a much-needed wash near Meskel Square, a craving for something light and flavorful gnawed at me. Lenten options, usually heavy on spice, held little appeal. I found myself relying on the guidance of the car wash workers. They pointed me towards a quaint cafe nearby.

Stepping into the diminutive space, I was warmly greeted by two attendants: a young woman with a bright smile and an older lady tending the cash register. I thought pastries were their sole offering, but a delightful surprise awaited – a menu boasting savoury delights. I opted for Shiro, requesting a touch of butter and omitting the green peppers for a milder experience.

The meal arrived, a simple and artfully presented tableau. Two varieties of injera, black and white, framed a clay vessel overflowing with simmering stew. Fragrant steam wafted upwards, a fragrant invitation. Each bite was a burst of flavour, a testament to the cook’s skill. With a satisfied sigh, I settled the 300 Br bill and left a token of appreciation for both the server and the unseen cook.

Finding a satisfying meal is a constant quest, which is why I frequent familiar places. Dining out can be a gamble – disappointment can lurk behind enticing menus, and sometimes the cost seems unjustified. Friends returning from the US recounted a night at a renowned restaurant. They enjoyed attentive service and delicious food, but the hefty bill, nearly 5,000 Br for a couple of meals and soft drinks, left them stunned. Compared to their dining experiences in the US, it felt excessively expensive.

However, my perspective extends beyond the price tag. The value of a meal is intertwined with the service provided. Price sensitivity stems from several factors. Poorly prepared or skimpy portions, regardless of cost, are a letdown. Equally important are clean facilities and a comfortable ambience. Cramped seating and dingy restrooms detract from the overall experience.

One burger joint defied expectations. Locally sourced, high-quality ingredients and meticulous staff training resulted in consistently good food and exceptional service. Every detail mattered, from flawless preparation to a welcoming atmosphere that encouraged patrons to linger and savour their meals. Imagine knowledgeable waiters guiding through the menu, a beautifully crafted ambience designed for relaxation, and a clear focus on creating an unforgettable evening.

Addis Abeba boasts a growing trend of upscale restaurants catering to those seeking an exclusive and sophisticated dining experience. At a restaurant I once visited, reservations are the norm, catering to a regular clientele who enjoy personalised attention. Knowledgeable waiters readily answer questions, guiding diners through a diverse range of international cuisines, from French classics to Indian curries. The ambience plays a crucial role, in transporting guests to the homeland of the cuisine. Traditional décor and staff attire further enrich the experience. While the price point may seem high, the combination of impeccable service, top-notch ingredients, and unique cultural immersion justifies the cost.

Years ago, a Lebanese restaurant in Lome, Togo, presented a delightful challenge. A language barrier with the waitstaff made deciphering the unfamiliar menu items a comical struggle. Despite the initial frustration, the friendly owner intervened, bridging the communication gap and treating me to a truly memorable Hummus experience. This simple chickpea dish, reminiscent of Ethiopia’s Shiro, took on a new dimension with olive oil and fresh herbs. The owner’s warm hospitality, evident even through the language barrier, transformed a meal into a cultural exchange.

Fine dining is not just about the price tag; the entire experience matters. It is a chance to delve into new cultures, appreciate the unseen effort behind the scenes, and create lasting memories. Knowledgeable staff, a comfortable ambience, and top-notch ingredients all contribute to a truly memorable meal. While communication can be a hurdle, even in international dining settings, overcoming it can lead to unexpected delights and forge genuine cultural connections.

Diners have a plethora of options to explore, from traditional street vendors to upscale eateries. Finding a reliable restaurant that consistently delivers both in taste and experience is akin to discovering a hidden treasure. The emergence of niche eateries provides diners with unique experiences tailored to their preferences. From fusion food trucks to pop-up dining events, adventurous food enthusiasts can explore a myriad of culinary offerings beyond traditional restaurant settings. These unconventional dining experiences add a sense of excitement and discovery to the gastronomic journey, enticing patrons to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new flavours and textures.

In the age of social media, dining out has become more than a means of sustenance; it is a form of self-expression and social currency. Trendy cafes and Instagrammable restaurants attract patrons seeking aesthetically pleasing dishes that are as photogenic as they are delicious. The presentation of food has taken on newfound importance, with chefs incorporating artistic elements into their culinary creations to captivate diners visually and stimulate their senses.

For me, dining out is a sensory journey that sparks connections and creates lasting memories. Whether it is the comfort of a familiar neighbourhood spot or the excitement of trying something new, each experience is an opportunity to celebrate the richness of life.

21,740,000,000

Posted on by Tizita S.
The value in Birr of the supplementary budget the Addis Abeba City Councillors approved last week, representing 15pc of the annual budget for the fiscal year 2023/24. The city administration collected 77pc of the 140 billion Br budget from taxpayers during the third quarter of the fiscal year.