Strong health systems key for national security, survival: PM

Addis Ababa, August 25, 2020 (FBC) –Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed said strong health systems are key for national security and survival.

He made the remark while addressing today the virtual session of the 70th Regional Committee for Africa.

In his remark, the Prime Minister stressed the need for strong health system to deal with disease outbreaks, such as the coronavirus (COVID19) pandemic.

“For the past eight months, our world has been challenged and shaped in a profound by the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said.

The virus affected millions, claimed the lives of thousands of people, affected health system as well as tested ways of living, societal norms, and economies, he said.

It gravely impacted the economies of countries with a decline in GDP growth, high inflation and employment rate, reduction in household income and increased poverty rate.

Prime Minister also highlighted the decisive measures taken by the government in response to the pandemic.

“The measures we took were intended to protect Ethiopia from this devastating virus and delay its spread on our continent,” he indicated.

As part of efforts to curb the spread in Africa, Ethiopia in partnership with Jack Ma, mobilized 5 rounds of COVID-19 prevention materials support.