ENABLE Project Implementation Workshop Held at Jimma University

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A formal familiarization workshop for the “Enabling Environments for Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Risk Reduction” (ENABLE) project was successfully convened at Jimma University, marking the official commencement of project activities.
Funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe program and running until November 2027, the initiative focuses on promoting healthy diets, increasing physical activity, and reducing air pollution exposure, with a particular emphasis on improving health outcomes for pregnant women and their children in urban settings.
The workshop assembled health managers and Maternal and Child Health (MCH) coordinators from the city health office and local health centers. Discussions centered on project objectives, implementation strategies, and the integration of a comprehensive NCD risk-factor package into primary healthcare. Key interventions highlighted include the training of healthcare providers and the digitalization of Antenatal Care (ANC) registrations to enhance service quality, data accuracy, and evidence-based decision-making.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Zerihun Assefa, delegate of the Vice President for Research and Partnership at Jimma University, underscored the university’s commitment to community-based engagement and the critical role of local partners in achieving the project’s long-term impact. Prof. Gudina Terefe Tucho further emphasized that collaboration with local health facilities is essential for successful and sustainable implementation.
Presentations by Dr. Zewidtu and Dr. Kassahun from the Ethiopian Institute of Public Health elaborated on implementation strategies and the significance of the digital eRegistry in strengthening study results and local capacity. Stakeholders unanimously affirmed that the multi-sectoral collaboration between Ethiopian health authorities, academic institutions, and European partners is vital to building sustainable systems to address the growing burden of NCDs.
The project leadership extended special appreciation to Dr. Eleni Zoumpoulia Papadopoulou of the Norwegian Institute of Public Health for her dedicated coordination and to all international and local partners for their contributions to this important public health endeavor.
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