Strengthening ties and celebrating impact — AFENET at the 4th Ethiopia FELTP national conference
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AFENET
A moment of shared purpose marked the 4th Ethiopia Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program (FELTP) National Conference, as Her Excellency Dr. Mekdes Daba, Minister of Health Ethiopia warmly interacted with members of the AFENET management team.
Amid the vibrant energy of the conference, Dr. Mekdes took time to exchange pleasantries and pose for a commemorative photo with Mr. Christopher Tanui, AFENET’s Head of Operations (representing Executive Director Dr. Simon Antara), and Ms. Agnes Kiggundu Barungi, AFENET’s Head of Finance. The photo — taken beside the iconic AFENET@20 frame — captured a powerful symbol of enduring collaboration in advancing field epidemiology and public health leadership in Africa.
Speaking on behalf of AFENET, Mr. Tanui delivered heartfelt remarks that echoed the theme of the conference: “Public Health in a Rapidly Changing World: The Role of the Field Epidemiology Workforce in Health Sector Transformation.”
“We commend the leadership of the Ethiopia FELTP for organizing this landmark event. As a network committed to building field epidemiology capacity across Africa, we are proud to support national conferences like this, which promote research, innovation, and collaboration.”
Mr. Tanui applauded the significant growth of Ethiopia’s FELTP since its inception in 2009. He noted its achievement in establishing all three training tiers—Advanced, Intermediate, and Frontline—by 2022, and the production of over 2,100 graduates to date. The program, he added, has become a shining example within the AFENET network and is now TEPHINET-accredited.
“In today’s world of persistent and emerging health threats—ranging from infectious diseases to climate-related challenges—countries must invest in highly skilled field epidemiologists. They are essential for building resilient surveillance systems and responding to emergencies with evidence-based action,” Mr. Tanui emphasized.
He also encouraged residents and graduates to publish their work in the Journal of Interventional Epidemiology and Public Health (JIEPH) — a key platform created by AFENET to promote scientific dissemination and visibility of African field epidemiology.
The interaction with Dr. Mekdes and the presence of high-level dignitaries — including representatives from the U.S. CDC, WHO, Africa CDC, IGAD, and the Ministries of Education and Agriculture — reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to elevating field epidemiology as a pillar of health system transformation.
As AFENET celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, its partnership with Ethiopia FELTP stands out as a beacon of progress — one built on shared values, people-centered leadership, and a vision for healthier, safer communities.
