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In collaboration with the Ethiopian Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO) continues to make strides in fostering safe and respectful workplaces across Ethiopia’s health sector. A recent milestone in this endeavor was a one-day training workshop on Preventing and Responding to Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PRSEAH), held on October 28, 2024, in Adama, Ethiopia. This workshop, supported technically and financially by WHO, underscores a shared commitment to establishing zero tolerance for SEAH in federal health institutions.
The workshop trained PRSEAH focal points from federal hospitals, health agencies, and administrative units, equipping them with practical skills to prevent, report, and address SEAH incidents. Participants gained expertise in coordination, communication, and action-oriented strategies, fostering stronger networks and collaboration for effective SEAH response mechanisms.
Ethiopia’s challenging conditions, including overlapping crises of conflict, disease outbreaks, and natural disasters, highlight the importance of safeguarding health workers and communities. The Ministry of Health, with WHO’s guidance, has localized global best practices into tailored guidelines, ensuring relevance to Ethiopia’s context. Translation of these resources into Amharic has further enhanced accessibility and impact.
“WHO’s technical and financial support has been invaluable in building a robust foundation to address workplace harassment and SEA,” remarked Ms. Tesfanesh and Ms. Alemtsehay, Women and Social Affairs Inclusion Directors from ALERT Hospital and the Ethiopia Pharmaceutical Supply Service. “These efforts empower us to create safe and inclusive environments for our workforce.”
The PRSEAH training is part of a broader initiative to strengthen resilience in Ethiopia’s health sector. Amid emergencies, when workers are under heightened stress, ensuring a safe and respectful workplace is critical for maintaining morale and service quality.
“In times of crisis, protecting the workforce is as vital as safeguarding communities,” emphasized a participant. “This training equips us with clear protocols and confidence to uphold zero tolerance for SEAH, even during emergencies.”
The workshop is one of many steps in a sustained partnership between WHO and the Ministry of Health. WHO’s support, covering financial costs and logistical needs, ensures that PRSEAH focal points are well-equipped to fulfill their roles. The Ministry will continue to monitor the progress of focal points and expand safeguarding practices across federal health institutions, with WHO providing ongoing technical assistance.
Through these collaborative efforts, Ethiopia is steadily advancing toward a vision of a compassionate and ethical health sector, where dignity, safety, and respect are upheld for all.
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