CDT-Africa marked International Clinical Trials Day 2023 with the theme: Clinical Trials Regulation for Better Health. The event was chaired by CDT-Africa’s Deputy Centre Leader, Professor Eyasu Makonnen.
This year marks the 10th year anniversary celebration of the International Clinical Trials Day in Ethiopia and the 19th in the world to raise awareness of the importance of clinical trials to advance research and healthcare.
Addis Ababa University President, Professor Tassew W/Hanna through his representative stressed the huge global inequity in the area of access to safe and effective medicines.
He highlighted the bold actions the university is taking in innovation, excellence and public impact. He noted that a reflection of this commitment of the university is the establishment of three Centres of Excellence (CoEs) to tackle major regional development challenges.
He applauded the progress of CDT-Africa, one of the CoEs under the University, in building programs, human capabilities and infrastructure to fulfil its mission of building the necessary capabilities for ensuring equitable access to drugs, vaccines and diagnostics. He also noted his hope that CDT-Africa will be a regional asset and will enhance the impact of the University.
Professor Tassew stressed the importance of long-term equitable partnerships to build critical local capabilities for medical discovery. He appreciated the effort being made to make Ethiopia a clinical trials and medical discovery hub.
Dr. Andualem Deneke, CED, CHS, AAU on his part said major advances in treatments were mostly the results of clinical trials research. Thus, building clinical trial capacity is essential. He highlighted that as the engagement in clinical trials increases, the capacity to regulate clinical trials effectively and efficiently is crucial and noted the timeliness of this year’s theme of the ICTD ‘Clinical Trials Regulation for Better Health’.
H.E. Dr. Dereje Duguma, State Minister, Ministry of Health, efforts are underway to enhance national regulatory capacity for the development and production of therapeutic products. He highlighted the importance of the engagement of all stakeholders.
