A consultative meeting on the integration of the Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP) for reproductive health in farms and workplaces was successfully held on June 12, 2025, at TK Hotel, Bishoftu. The event was organized by the Family Guidance Association of Ethiopia (FGAE) in collaboration with the Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association (EHPEA), with support from DFPA.
The meeting convened key stakeholders from the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, Oromia Health and Labor Bureaus, Sheger Sub-City, horticulture farms, and representatives from respective woredas.
Mr. Surafel from the Oromia Health Bureau delivered the opening remarks, followed by a keynote speech from Ato Ayele of the Oromia Labor and Social Affairs Bureau. Sister Eskedar, FGAE CAO Manager, and Ato Mohamed, AAAO Manager, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of workplace-based SRH services.
A technical presentation on MISP Implementation Progress Since 2017 in Oromia was delivered, outlining key achievements and ongoing challenges by Mr. Surafel from the Oromia Health Bureau. This was followed by a best practice experience shared by Sister Betelhem from Ziway Horticulture Farm, showcasing the effective integration of MISP within the farm setting.
A discussion moderated by Miss Yodit (EHPEA) and Ato Ayele generated rich dialogue around strategies to expand MISP implementation across the horticulture sector.
The meeting concluded with closing remarks from Mrs Mihiret of the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, who underscored the need for continued partnership and coordination to ensure access to quality reproductive health services for all workers.
This forum marked a significant step toward institutionalizing MISP in Ethiopia’s labor-intensive sectors, promoting the health and rights of workers, particularly women and youth.