The 5S Foundation Ethiopia Project has successfully conducted its final research dissemination and stakeholder engagement workshop on February 10, 2026, at the South Star International Hotel in Hawassa, Sidama Regional State, Ethiopia. The event was organized by the 5S Foundation Ethiopia Project in collaboration with the Sidama Regional Health Bureau. The workshop created an important platform for dialogue and learning on Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), particularly skin NTDs such as podoconiosis and scabies.
Skin NTDs continue to affect vulnerable communities across Ethiopia, significantly impacting livelihoods, education, and social wellbeing. In response, the workshop aimed not only to share research findings from the 5S postdoctoral and PhD researchers, and to highlight key public engagement activities undertaken by the project team and PiEE, but also to strengthen partnerships, stimulate innovation, and showcase national best practices in the prevention and management of these conditions.
The event brought together a diverse group of participants, comprising representatives from the Sidama Regional Health Bureau, the Sidama Regional Public Health Bureau, the Bureau of Women and Social Affairs, Hawassa City Health Bureau, Hawssa City Women and Social Affairs Burea, Hawassa University, hospitals, community representatives, religious leaders, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and partners working in the health and WASH–NTD sectors. This diversity of voices enriched the discussions and reinforced the importance of coordinated, multi-sectoral responses to NTDs.
