Global Vaccine Alliance Invests in Ethiopian Cold Chain Facility

Mar 16 , 2024


[ssba-buttons]

An 18 million dollar investment in a cold chain facility, designed to improve vaccine storage and distribution nationwide was committed by the Global Alliance for Vaccine and Immunization (GAVI). The federal government has allocated four million dollars over two years, as a joint investment. This collaboration represents a step forward in strengthening the country's immunisation program as the new cold chain facility will ensure proper storage and distribution of vaccines, ultimately protecting the public from preventable diseases. The announcement was made following discussions between GAVI's Director of High Impact Countries Country Programmes Delivery, Tokunbo Oshin (PhD), and Semereta Sewasew, state minister for Finance. The discussions primarily focused on co-financing requirements, the implementation of the Cold Chain Equipment Optimization Platform (CCEOP), and financial accountability measures. Tokunbo highlighted Ethiopia's status as a priority country for vaccine-related support over the past two decades. He commended the adherence to co-financing obligations and its dedication to vaccine delivery and immunisation-related interventions. Semereta reaffirmed Ethiopia's commitment to meeting co-financing requirements and emphasised the government's steadfast dedication to implementing the national immunisation plan. A year ago, the Ethiopian Pharmaceutical Supply Service (EPSS) set plans to expand its cold room used for pharmaceutical storage and complete its seven-storey building, hoping to increase the storage capacity of vaccines, insulin, laboratory reagents and cancer medicines safely.


Radar

Ministry Showcases Arada Branch Revenue Gains

Arada District's Land Development & Administration Branch pulled in over 150 million Br in just 70 days, beating its 90-day target. Most of the revenue came from annual lease collections and service fees. The office also billed 126 property owners for roof and fence valuations, already securing 20 million Br of the expected 46 million Br. Officials issued warnings to 15 allottees slow to start construction and recommended land right revocations in 11 cases. Leaders credited a more efficient...


Radar

Ministry Backs Blended Finance for Micro, Small Enterprises

The United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) is partnering with Ministry of Finance to expand financial access for micro and small enterprises through blended finance and digital tools. Off-balance-sheet facilities are designed to attract private investors and Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) by reducing risk and improving capital flow. Digital platforms, including mobile money and digital IDs, will lower transaction costs and broaden reach. The initiative supports job creation and...


Radar

National Electricity Network Set for Upgrade

Ethiopia Electric Utility (EEU) plans to expand the national electricity grid by 8,689 km in the 2026 fiscal year, Yohannes Tonja, head of Performance Monitoring and Evaluation, said. The rollout includes 86,789 km of medium-voltage lines, 92,572 km of low-voltage lines, and pre-maintenance on transformers. EEU will also rehabilitate 1,218 km of medium-voltage lines, install 1,893 transformers, and upgrade 308.7 km of low-voltage infrastructure. Operational targets include cutting power interrup...