(Harar: January 28, 2024): GLRA Ethiopia and GLRA east Africa in collaboration with ENAPAL and other partners colorfully celebrated world leprosy day (WLD) in the town of Harar on January 28, 2024. The aim of the day is to raise awareness of the disease and reduce stigma against those who suffer from it.
The theme for World Leprosy Day 2024 is “Beat Leprosy”. But in Ethiopia, it is celebrated under the motto “Don’t Forget Leprosy.” This theme encapsulates the dual objectives of the day: to eradicate the stigma & discrimination associated with leprosy and to promote the dignity of people affected by the disease.
The program launched with the blessings of local elders in three languages- Amharic, Afan Oromo and Harari.
Following the welcome and introductory speech made by Mr. Abiy Abate, the Managing Director of Ethiopia National Association for People Affected by Leprosy (ENAPAL), the event was officially opened by Her Excellency Roza Umer, the Harari Regional State Vice President. In her opening speech, she reaffirmed that her regional government would make all the necessary supports to alleviate all the challenges that the affected persons are facing.
On the other hand, Mr. Kefyalew Bekele, the Ethiopia Leprosy Association chairperson made brief speech on behalf of the Association and the Federal democratic Republic of Ethiopia Women, Youth and Social Affairs Ministry representative Mr. Asalfew also assured that his ministry relentlessly works with all stakeholders to benefit the leprosy affected persons.
Three papers focused on leprosy were presented and panel discussion was conducted through panel facilitators: Mr. Ahmed Mohammed, GLRA east Africa representative, Mrs. Beletshachew, TLMI head, & Mr. Asalfew, representative of the Ministry of Women, Youth & Social Affairs.
Based on the panel discussion, some action points were clearly noted and assignments were shared among stakeholders to make the talk walk and meet the demands of people affected by leprosy.
The WLD is celebrated in Ethiopia for 25th time while globally for 70th. The event was hosted by Harari regional government of Ethiopia. The capital of the region is Harar which is about 25km from Bisidimo, the birthplace of GLRA nearly seven decades ago. Hence, this year observance day is a historical and a day all actors reaffirmed their commitments.
Audiences of the event entertained the day through cultural songs staged in three languages- Afan Oromo, Harari, and Amharic. Moreover, Harari regional police March band also had a paramount contribution for the colorful celebration and in grabbing the attention of the higher officials in particular and the community of Harar town and the surroundings in general.
It was noted that various media outlets (radio and TV) covered the event.
Dr. Hiwot Solomon from the ministry of Health of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia made the closing remark and with this the event was concluded.