RISE Project Launching Ceremony Jinka Town, Southern Ethiopia
The Ethiopian Orthodox Church Development and Inter-Church Aid Commission (EOC-DICAC), in collaboration with the South Ethiopia Regional Health Bureau (SRHB), officially launched the RISE (Reaching Immunization Success through Empowerment) project from March 25–27, 2025, in Jinka Town, Southern Ethiopia. This initiative is funded by GAVI and supported by Mannion Daniels and Oxford Policy Management (OPM). The project seeks to increase immunization coverage, reduce the number of zero-dose children, and strengthen the healthcare system in underserved and hard-to-reach areas.
RISE is a timely response to the persistent gaps in immunization in 10 woredas across 6 zones of the South Ethiopia region, where geographical, cultural, and logistical barriers have long hindered service delivery. The project commenced on January 1, 2025, and will run through June 30, 2026. This report outlines the key activities and outcomes of the launching ceremony, staff induction, and project plan alignment sessions.
Dr. Ayana Yeneabat, speaking on behalf of GAVI and project partners, provided strategic direction and reiterated the expectation that project staff closely integrate with the regional and woreda health offices. His message centered on collaborative implementation, community engagement, and data-driven decision-making.
Dr. Achenef Bekele, the project’s technical lead, provided an in-depth overview of the RISE project. His presentation focused on the project's key pillars: zero-dose tracking, community engagement, health worker capacity building, and routine immunization system strengthening. Also a new EPI data monitoring tool, designed to complement the existing DHIS2 system and provide real-time insights at the woreda level. This tool would not replace but rather enhance existing reporting systems while improving data quality.
Durring the pannel disscussion, questions raised by participants—including local religious leaders, woreda health office representatives, and other stakeholders were adressed. Implementation strategies and accountability mechanisms to community mobilization techniques and sustainability are key issues. Participants expressed enthusiasm about the project and welcomed the inclusive planning process.
Mela’eke Selam Lealem, a dedicated priest deeply invested in the well-being of his community, resides In the Awi Zone, Banja Woreda, Bassa Kebele.