National One Health food safety technical working group under the Ethiopian national One Health secretariat Report on the establishment, process and action plans (2023–24) February 2024 1 The program thanks all donors and organizations which globally support its work through their contributions to the CGIAR Trust Fund © 2024 This publication is copyrighted by the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI). It is licensed for use under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International Licence. To view this licence, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0. Unless otherwise noted, you are free to share (copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format), adapt (remix, transform, and build upon the material) for any purpose, even commercially, under the following condition: ATTRIBUTION. The work must be attributed, but not in any way that suggests endorsement by ILRI or the author(s). NOTICE: For any reuse or distribution, the licence terms of this work must be made clear to others. Any of the above conditions can be waived if permission is obtained from the copyright holder. Nothing in this licence impairs or restricts the author’s moral rights. Fair dealing and other rights are in no way affected by the above. The parts used must not misrepresent the meaning of the publication. ILRI would appreciate being sent a copy of any materials in which text, photos etc. have been used. Contributors: Feyesa Regassa1, Kebede Amenu2, Behailu Goshime3 1Ethiopian Public Health Institute 2International Livestock Research Institute 3 Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority Citation: Regassa, F., Amenu, K. and Goshime, B. 2024. National One Health food safety technical working group under the Ethiopian national One Health secretariat: Report on the establishment, process and action plans (2023–24). Nairobi, Kenya: ILRI. https://www.cgiar.org/funders/ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2 1. Introduction Foodborne hazards have taken on new dimensions, with complex food safety challenges emerging around the globe. Hazards, including zoonotic and non-zoonotic pathogens and chemical contaminants, can enter the food chain at any point, from prior to harvest to the time of consumption. Foodborne and waterborne diseases are caused when unsafe levels of pathogens, chemical contaminants and other toxins are ingested from food or water. Unsafe food is estimated to cause foodborne illnesses and deaths in humans. In addition, foodborne diseases cause associated productivity loss in low- and middle-income countries, while the annual cost of treating foodborne illnesses is estimated at USD 15 billion (World Bank, 2018). Similarly, waterborne diseases are estimated to cause significant amount of diarrheal illness and deaths each year around the globe. In addition to long-standing foodborne bacterial pathogens such as Salmonella, new pathogens are emerging, and many kinds of food have been associated with the transmission of disease. Chemical contaminants may also enter the food chain prior to harvest – for example, veterinary drug residues in animals and pesticides on plants or heavy metals through the pollution of air, water and soil – thereby affecting human and animal health. Responding to international requests to prevent future pandemics and to promote health sustainably through the One Health approach, the Quadripartite (the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH, founded as OIE), and the World Health Organization (WHO)) has developed the One Health Joint Plan of Action (2022–2026) (OH JPA). The OH JPA is built around six interdependent action tracks that collectively contribute to achieving sustainable health and food systems, reduced global health threats and improved ecosystem management. Action track 4 is “Strengthening the assessment, management and communication of food safety risks”. A critical aspect food safety as it is related to the contamination of water, the environment and food is the cross-sectoral management, as food and the complex systems involved in the pathways from production to consumption sit at the nexus of the human–animal–plant–environment interface. Hence, the action track is designed to systematically and holistically aim to mainstream a One Health approach in food safety efforts from a food systems perspective with specific actions to address the risks to animal, environment and human health and food safety in the continuum from production to consumption. https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2018/10/23/food-borne-illnesses-cost-us-110-billion-per-year-in-low-and-middle-income-countries#:~:text=The%20total%20productivity%20loss%20associated,estimated%20at%20US%24%2015%20billion. https://iris.who.int/handle/10665/363518 3 2. Background The Ethiopian National One Health Steering Committee (NOHSC) was established in 2017 by an official memorandum of understanding among various relevant ministries. Subsequently, efforts have been made to deal with health issues requiring multi-sectoral actions (more specifically on zoonotic disease control strategies and general health security) with commendable results. Activities related to zoonotic diseases were largely implemented by formation of technical working groups (TWGs) constituting stakeholders from various institutions. The three major achievements of the NOHSC includes: 1. National level Coordination milestones: 2017: MOU Signed, 2021: Commitment reaffirmed, One Health (OH)/International Health Regulations (IHR) Secretariat Approved 2. Strategies and programs: National One Health strategic plan, zoonotic diseases (ZDs) prevention and Control Programs-PZDs 3. One Health Operationalization: Diseases outbreak investigation and Response, ZDs Elimination (Rabies) and Eradication (EDEP), Awareness and capacity building. Spill-over research, One Health Events Food safety is one of the 19 action packages of the International Health Regulation (IHR) (IHR- 2005). State parties are required to develop the minimum core capacities for timely detection of, and effective response to, potential food-related events in collaboration with other sectors responsible for food safety. This capacity is assessed using both the IHR Monitoring and Evaluation Framework (IHR-MEFs) and JEE (Joint External Evaluation) and SPAR (State Parties Self-Assessment Annual Reporting). Ethiopia recently conducted independent JEE second round score and multi-sectoral SPAR 2023 score indicated that the minimum core capacity for food safety is not built. Likewise, the activities related to food safety and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) following One Health approach, in bringing stakeholders together were not to the expectations. Hence, the national one health multi-sectoral coordination (NOHSC) in collaborating with the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) has decide to address the problems through enhancing the multi-sectoral food-safety engagements by establishing and functionalizing the food-safety technical working group (TWG) as one of the technical arms of Ethiopian national one health secretariat (E-NOHS). ILRI works for better lives and a better planet through livestock in developing countries and is co- hosted by Kenya and Ethiopia. ILRI is a CGIAR research Centre, a global research partnership for a food-secure future. CGIAR science is dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources and ecosystem services. NOH-FSTWG is supported as part of the two CGIAR Research Initiatives: on “One Health” and “Resilient Cities” https://www.cgiar.org/ https://www.ilri.org/news/ethiopia-strides-towards-one-health-launch-integrated-food-safety-technical-working-group https://www.cgiar.org/initiative/one-health/ https://www.cgiar.org/initiative/resilient-cities/ 4 3. Objective Through the technical and financial support of ILRI to establish Ethiopian National One Health Food Safety Technical Working Group (NOH-FSTWG) based on clear terms of reference (TOR), with an aim to deal with food safety problems, and to develop immediate plan of action based on priority food-safety problems. 4. Major activities Launch of the NOH-FSTWG Ethiopian food safety research conference was held on 27th of October 2023 at ILRI, Addis Ababa at the presence of the E-NOHS leadership and relevant stakeholders. Related presentations were made by ILRI scientists and E-NOHC members after which thorough discussions were undertaken. During this meeting the NOH-FSTWG was officially launched, and as the way forward to draft the NOH-FSTWG Development of NOH-FSTWG terms of refence (ToR) The TOR for the technical working group was drafted and circulated with relevant stakeholders in early to mid-2023. Following the launch of the NOH-FSTWG on Oct 26, 2023, the first meeting of the group was held on October 30, 2023 and during the first meeting, discussions were held focusing on the contents of the TOR for the group and the overall working modality. Following that, the already drafted TOR was circulated a fresh with relevant stakeholders to get additional input and suggestions. The comments and suggestions were included during the meeting held on Dec 5- 7, 2023, in Adama (Ethiopia) to discuss with one health stakeholders on the operationalizing of One Health Secretariat and the TOR for NOHS, Technical Working Groups of Zoonotic Diseases (ZDs), OH-Food Safety, AMR and OH Risk Communication and Community Engagement (OH-RCCE) finalized. The first meeting of Ethiopian National Food Safety TWG and final ToR is annexed to this report (Annex1 and 2) respectively. https://www.ilri.org/news/ethiopia-strides-towards-one-health-launch-integrated-food-safety-technical-working-group https://www.ilri.org/news/ethiopia-strides-towards-one-health-launch-integrated-food-safety-technical-working-group 5 Annex 1: Meeting minute of the first NOH-FSTWG meeting Meeting Notes Meeting title: First meeting of the Ethiopian National One Health Food Safety Technical Working Group (NOH-FSTWG) Date of Meeting: Monday, October 30, 2023 Time: 08:30-12:35 Meeting Facilitator(s): Kebede Amenu, Dr Silvia Alonso, Dr.feyesa Regasa and Behailu Goshime Location: ILRI Addis Campus, Konso 1. INTRODUCTION The National One Health Steering Committee (NOHSC) was established in 2018 by an official memorandum of understanding among various relevant ministries. Subsequently, efforts have been made to deal with health issues requiring multi-sectoral actions (more specifically on zoonotic disease control strategies and general health security) with commendable results. Under the NOHSC technical working groups target various zoonotic diseases. There were also attempts to form technical working groups targeting antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and food safety. However, there was not much progress made related to the formation of the latter two groups. Since the start of this year (2023), NOHSC has been working to establish food safety technical working group (FTWG) with a support from the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI). ILRI works for better lives through livestock in developing countries and is co-hosted by Kenya and Ethiopia. ILRI is a CGIAR research Centre, a global research partnership for a food-secure future. CGIAR science is dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources and ecosystem services. As part of the two CGIAR Research Initiatives: “On protecting human health through a One Health approach” (OHI) and “Resilient Cities” (RC), ILRI is supporting the establishment of FSTWG under Ethiopian NOHSC. So far, various preparation activities have been carried out in connection with the efforts toward the formation of FSTWG. Terms of reference (TOR) for the group have been prepared and endorsed during a side meeting of identifying key stakeholder and mapping the gaps on food safety surveillance and detection in Ethiopia, meeting at Adama on August 28-29, 2023, in the presence of various food safety stakeholders. It is now time to launch the FSTWG by kick-off meeting on October 30, 2023. The brief description of the meeting is outlined as follows. 2. Objective The objective of the first meeting was to discuss on the objectives, priorities and plan of activities of the FSTWG which can help Ethiopian government toward improved food safety management along food supply chains following a One Health approach. 3. Expected participants The planned workshop is expected to bring together a total of 35 participants including members of NOHSC, various food safety stakeholders and resource persons drawn from relevant line ministries, institutions and development partners with a broad range of relevant disciplines. https://www.cgiar.org/ https://www.cgiar.org/initiative/one-health/?section=about https://www.cgiar.org/initiative/resilient-cities/ 6 2. Workshop Agenda Time Activity/Description Responsible Facilitator 8:30-9:00 Registration Participants Organizer (NOHSC & ILRI) 9:00-9:30 Welcome remarks and Introductions Dr. Hung Nguyen Dr Feyesa Regassa 9:30-9:45 Objective of the workshop NOHSC 9:45-10:00 Brief presentation: “Why Ethiopia needs a FSTWG and why NOHSC is the perfect host for it” Dr. Wondwosen Bekele, MoA NOHSC leaders 10:00-10:15 Health Break & Group Photo Organizer 10:15-10:30 Presentation of FSTWG TOR Behailu Goshime Behailu Goshime 10:30-11:00 Plenary Discussion Participants Dr. Silvia Alonso 11:00-11:30 Election of the Food Safety Technical Working Group (FSTWG) assignment of FSTWG leaders (chair, Co-chair& Secretary) Group activity NOHSC leaders 11:30-12:30 The Way Forward and FSTWG Start-up Action Plan Development Group presentations and discussion on the presentations (enrichment of Aps) Group activity Group representatives and participants Dr. Silvia Alonso 12:30-12:40 Closing Remarks TBD Lunch served 4. Discussion points 4.1. Introductory remarks Dr. Feyesa Regassa, chair of the NOHSC, extended a warm welcome and the kicked off the event and emphasized the key role of different ministries in ensuring food safety and stressed the importance of collaborative platforms to streamline initiatives. The National One Health Steering Committee (NOHSC) established the National One Health Food Safety Technical Working Group (OH-FSTWG), convening its first meeting on October 30, 2023. Joined by members from human health, animal health, trade, agriculture, and wildlife sectors, Ministry of water and energy, Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority, Addis Ababa City Administration Farmers and Urban Agriculture Development Commission and others. Following these introductory remarks, Mr. Behailu Goshime, Deputy Chair of the NOHSC made presentation in detail explanations on the draft Term of reference of OH-FSTWG , and discussions were made on the presentation for valuable inputs, comments and the way ahead. Hung Nguyen also presented slides on the experience of FSTWG in Vietnam for lesson and experience sharing. https://www.onehealthethiopia.org/ https://www.msn.com/en-xl/africa/top-stories/platform-created-to-exchange-information-on-food-safety-in-ethiopia/ar-AA1iYLYe https://www.msn.com/en-xl/africa/top-stories/platform-created-to-exchange-information-on-food-safety-in-ethiopia/ar-AA1iYLYe 7 Feyesa Regassa presenting on the Ethiopia national One Health steering committee (photo credit: ILRI/Hung Nguyen-Viet) 4.2. OH-FSTWG Platform The OH-FSTWG will serve as a platform for stakeholders to share information, collaborate, and develop policy advice in matters related to food safety in the country. Key areas of activity will include: • Coordination. Create opportunities for institutions working on food safety projects in the country to share information on activities, findings, and priorities. • Policy. Coordinate efforts to advise government and institutions in the development of science- based recommendations to update existing legislation on food safety. • Communication. Support communication plans by government and other stakeholders to promote hygienic practices and healthy food safety culture among food value chain actors. In Ethiopia, foodborne illnesses are responsible for an estimated 400,000 cases and 190 deaths annually, costing the nation approximately USD 723 million per year, equivalent to 1% of the GDP. This public health and financial burden, which accounts for only a subset of meat products and foodborne germs, underscores the urgent need to address food safety through a comprehensive One Health approach. During the meeting, the Terms of Reference for the OH-FSTWG were presented and discussed, delineating the group's goals. Moreover, suggestions were made to expand the group membership, emphasizing its inclusive nature and flexibility to accommodate evolving needs and interests. Drawing insights from ILRI's experiences in Vietnam, Dr. Hung Nguyen Viet shared the journey of the FSTWG in Vietnam, emphasizing its shift from an initial research-focused group of 10 members to a dynamic, multi- sectoral body of 60 members integrated into the national One Health framework. Underscoring the value of early integration into national One Health mechanisms, the Ethiopian FSTWG can learn from this experience, and strengthen its foundation from the beginning. This FSTWG was launched during the Food Safety Conference held on 26-27 Oct 2023 in Addis Ababa. This group is supported by CGIAR initiatives on One Health and Resilient Cities. Currently, the NOHSC hosts several specific One Health technical working groups, such as rabies, anthrax, brucellosis, emerging pandemic threat (EPT), antimicrobial resistance and One Health communication taskforce. Tackling the food safety challenge at the national level demands reduced fragmentation and nurtured collaborations across multiple sectors. With its inclusive One Health strategy, the OH-FSTWG is well- positioned to drive significant strides forward in coordinating food safety initiatives throughout Ethiopia https://www.thereporterethiopia.com/37135/#:~:text=A%20new%20study%20focusing%20on,723%20million%20to%20these%20illnesses. https://www.ilri.org/food-safety-working-group-viet-nam https://www.ilri.org/news/technical-working-group-formed-strengthen-food-safety-framework-vietnam https://www.msn.com/en-xl/africa/top-stories/platform-created-to-exchange-information-on-food-safety-in-ethiopia/ar-AA1iYLYe https://www.cgiar.org/initiative/one-health/ https://www.cgiar.org/initiative/resilient-cities/ 8 5. Way forward As the way forward, the following action points were forwarded • Circulate the draft term of reference of OH-FSTWG for food safety stakeholders • After two weeks incorporate the valuable inputs and comments in the document • Include and list missed the food safety stakeholders in the TWG • Ratify the ToR and draft the plan of actions for 2024 in the next meeting Participants at the first meeting of the Ethiopia One Health–food safety technical working group, October 30, 2023 (photo credit: ILRI/Shahida Hussien). Development of the priority areas and next plan of actions The second meeting of the national food safety technical working group was conducted on February 1, 2024, at ILRI with the following objectives: to discuss the pending issues (if any) from the first meeting and general issues, and to set key food safety priorities for actions (short-term and long-term) under NOH-FSTWG and to draft the plan of actions for 2024. As per the expectations, the election of the chair, deputy chair and secretary of the NOH-FSTWG was carried out successfully and agreed upon. Accordingly, the chair is from Ministry of agriculture (MOA), the deputy chair is from Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) and secretary from Ethiopian Environmental Protection Authority (EPA). During this meeting, the major priority areas were identified and listed, also the action plan drafted. Further refining of the development of the intended plan of action was postponed to the next meeting of the NOH- FSTWG (See Annex 2). 9 Annex 2 Terms of reference of the NOH-FSTWG Terms of Reference for National Food Safety Technical Working Group (NOH-FSTWG) under the Ethiopian National One Health Secretariat (E-NOHS), December 2023, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia The major objective of the IHR and One Health Secretariat is to ensure a sustained global and national health security through building a minimum health security capacity, and through effective one health coordination and implementation against the emerging and re-emerging pandemic threats within human-animal- environment interfaces including the fatal endemic zoonotic diseases, anti-microbial resistance, food safety and chemical, biological and radio-nuclear hazards. The Ethiopian government, this year as of 9th February 2023, issued the regulation no. 529/2023 of the council of ministers, and mandated the Ethiopian public health institute of the ministry of health to serve as the secretariat of national Multisectoral and Multi-disciplinary One Health implementation. During this workshop, the ToR of NOH-FSTWG and others OH-TWGs was endorsed in the wider one health stakeholders to enrich it and the workshop was scheduled Dec 5-7, 2023 at Executive hotel, Adama town. Abbreviations and acronyms AHI-Animal Health Institute AU – African Union AACAFUADC-Addis Ababa City Administration Farmers and Urban Agriculture Development Commission DALY – disability-adjusted life years EDRMC-Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission EAA- Ethiopian Agricultural Authority EFDA – Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority EPA-Environmental Protection Authority EPHI – Ethiopia Public Health Institute EWCA- Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority FAO – Food and Agriculture Organization NOH-FSTWG– Food Safety Technical Working Group HIV/AIDS – human immunodeficiency virus / acquired immune deficiency syndrome IFPRI – International Food Policy Research Institute ILRI – International Livestock Research Institute IWMI – International Water Management Institute LMIC – low- and middle-income countries MoA – Ministry of Agriculture MoH – Ministry of Health MoWE – Ministry of Water and Energy NVI -National Veterinary Institute OH – One Health OSU - GOHi – Global One Health Initiative SOPs – Standard Operating Procedures TOR – Terms of Reference NOH-FSTWG – National One Health Food Safety Technical Working Group UKHSA- United Kingdom Health Security Agency UNEP-United Nations Environment Program UNFSS – United Nations Food Systems Summit USAID – United States Agency for International Development WHO – World Health Organization WOAH-World Organization for Animal Health WFP – World Food Programme 10 Background Ethiopia, like many other countries, faces various challenges related to public health, zoonotic diseases, and environmental issues. Recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, the concept of One Health has gained significant importance in addressing these challenges holistically. One Health promotes collaboration and coordination among multiple sectors to achieve optimal health outcomes. In 2021 Ethiopia developed its National Pathway for Food Systems Transformation1, following from the Africa Common Position on Food Systems Transformation, which was adopted and presented at the United Nations Food Systems Summit (UNFSS) in September 2021. Food safety is a crucial element of food systems, which cannot be overlooked in the quest of countries to improve the efficiency, adequacy and sustainability of their food systems. The publication in 2022 of the AU Food Safety Strategy of Africa2 is a testimony of the recognition that food safety must be urgently addressed to achieve the agriculture, nutrition and food system goals of countries. In Ethiopia, the agricultural sector plays a crucial role in the overall economy, employing a significant portion of the population and contributing to food and nutritional security and export earnings. However, the country also faces challenges in ensuring the safety and quality of its food system. Foodborne diseases and contamination pose risks to public health, impacting consumer confidence, trade, and economic growth. To address these complex health challenges and promote a more integrated approach, the National One Health Steering Committee (NOHSC) was established in Ethiopia. The NOHSC serves as a high-level coordinating body responsible for overseeing and guiding One Health activities across the country. The NOHSC recognizes the importance of the food system as a critical component of One Health. The food system encompasses all the processes, activities, and actors involved in the production, processing, distribution, and consumption of food. It includes agricultural practices, food production, transportation, storage, marketing, and food safety regulations. The food system in Ethiopia faces various challenges, such as inadequate infrastructure, limited access to clean water, poor sanitation practices, in adequate food handling and processing practices, and fragmented regulatory frameworks. These challenges contribute to foodborne illnesses, outbreaks, and the transmission of zoonotic diseases. To address these challenges, the National One Health Food Safety Technical Working Group (NOH-FSWG) was established under the NOHSC. The NOH-FSTWG focuses specifically on food safety issues within the broader One Health context. It brings together relevant government agencies, scientific experts, industry stakeholders, and other key actors to develop strategies, guidelines, and best practices for ensuring the safety of the national food supply chain. The NOH-FSTWG plays a vital role in assessing and monitoring the food safety situation in Ethiopia, reviewing policies and regulations, promoting capacity building and awareness campaigns, conducting research, and providing technical support during food safety emergencies. By addressing food safety within the One Health framework, the NOH-FSTWG aims to improve public health outcomes, enhance consumer confidence, promote trade, and contribute to sustainable agricultural and economic development in Ethiopia. One Health sits at the interface between animal health, human health, plant health and environment. Food safety sits right at the cross-roads of agriculture production, including livestock, food systems, and human health, and at such benefits from the use of a One Health approach to its management. Ethiopia is investing importantly on policy making toward supporting food safety management. There is however a recognized 1 https://summitdialogues.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/DRAFT-Ethiopian-Food-System-Position-Paper- 09012021.pdf 2 http://repository.au-ibar.org/handle/123456789/1405 https://summitdialogues.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/DRAFT-Ethiopian-Food-System-Position-Paper-09012021.pdf https://summitdialogues.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/DRAFT-Ethiopian-Food-System-Position-Paper-09012021.pdf http://repository.au-ibar.org/handle/123456789/1405 11 lack of coordination of food safety activities in the country, and a need for a platform that can facilitate dialogue, exchange and support across the various public and private stakeholders working on food safety. The formation of the NOHSC and the establishment of the NOH-FSTWG demonstrate Ethiopia's commitment to adopting a comprehensive and collaborative approach to address health challenges at the human-animal- environment interface. By integrating efforts across sectors and engaging relevant stakeholders, Ethiopia is working towards a more resilient, sustainable, and safe food system that protects both human and animal health. Under NOHSC, the NOH-FSTWG can serve as a most relevant platform to foster communication and promote food safety within the country. Goal: To promote and strengthen food safety issues at institutional systemic level and increase coordination and impact of food safety activities in Ethiopia. Rationale for the formation of NOH-FSWG NOH-FSTWG is formed to fill the existing gap in communication and coordination of food safety activities in Ethiopia. The group will serve as a platform for different organizations, stakeholders and government units to exchange information on existing projects, country priorities and needs in relation to food safety. Moreover, it will serve as an advisory group to the government on matters related to food safety policy and practice. Over time the NOH-FSTWG will become a coordination unit to facilitate integration of food safety activities and projects in the country. NOH-FSTWG members will play their role in advocacy within their respective organizations to foster collaboration, sharing of information and integration of activities. Objective of the NOH-FSWG The objective of the working group is to provide a platform for stakeholders in Ethiopia to share information, collaborate and develop policy advice in matters related to food safety in the country. Representation of NOH-FSWG Considering the multi-sectoral approach required to tackle food safety risks and its burden on health and economy, members of the NOH-FSTWG will include representatives from various ministries, authorities and organizations in Ethiopia. Representation will be sought from the Ministry of Health including Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority, EPHI (Food science and nutrition; Public Health Emergency management (surveillance team), Ministry of Agriculture (Food and Nutrition Office, Food Safety and Quality Desk , Veterinary Public Health Desk, Epidemiology Desk (surveillance and risk analysis team), Ethiopian Agricultural Authority, Abattoir team, Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (wildlife utilization desk, wildlife health service desk), Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration, Ethiopian Conformity Assessment Enterprises, Ministry of Water and Energy (Water Safety and Quality Desk), Ethiopian Environmental Protection Authority, Ethiopian Standard Institute and the International Livestock Research Institute. Additional technical expertise will be coming from partners and stakeholder institutions such as universities, research institutes and international organizations that will be invited to be members of the NOH-FSTWG and provide valuable inputs and technical assistance in the areas of strategic importance. The NOH-FSTWG will comprise representatives from each of the following institutions3 A. Lead Key One Health Sectors institutions: • Ministry of Health (MoH)-EPHI  Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA), Food Safety Directorate, Food Inspection & Enforcement Desk, Food quality control Desk  EPHI (Food science and nutrition Directorate),  Zoonotic diseases research case team,  Food and Nutrition team (MoH) • Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) 3 The name of institutions and various departments may not show the current status or exact names; the departments are indicative of food safety relevance. 12  Food system and Nutrition Desk  Veterinary Public Health Desk  Epidemiology Desk  Disease prevention and control Desk  Animal Health Institute (AHI)  Ethiopian Agricultural Research Institute, Food and Nutrition Research Directorate,  Ethiopian Agriculture Authority (EAA) Animal Health Regulatory Sectors (unprocessed and semi-processed primary agricultural products import and export regulatory) Ethiopian Agricultural Authority (quality control laboratory center) Animal Quarantine Regulatory Lead Executive, Inspection and Certification Directorate Milk and Honey Product Safety and Quality Control Desk Export Meat and by product inspection and certification Desk Animal products Regulatory Lead Executive Plant Health Regulatory Sectors (unprocessed and semi-processed primary agricultural products import and export regulatory) Plant Quarantine and Regulatory, LEO Plant Production Safety and Quality Desk • Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration • Ministry of Industry • Institute of Ethiopian Standards • Ethiopian Conformity Assessment Enterprises • Environmental Protection Authority (Biosafety Regulation Directorate), Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Directorate) • Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA)(Wildlife Utilization and Wild life Health Service Desk • Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission (EDRMC)(Food safety & quality desk) • Ministry of Water and Energy  WASH Program • National Veterinary Institute (NVI) B. Development partners and Non-Government Organizations4 o The Ohio State University-Global One Health Initiative (OSU-GOHi) o World Health Organization (WHO) Ethiopia Country Office o World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) o Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) Ethiopia Country Office o United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UK-HSA) o United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Ethiopia Mission Office o World Food Program (WFP), Ethiopia Country Office o African Union, Food Safety (Africa CDC) o International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) and other relevant CGIAR centers (e.g. IFPRI, IWMI) C. Universities and research institutions, as required o Food Safety Departments/Units at Ethiopian Universities and research institutes The technical working group may solicit representation of additional members and stakeholders in an ad hoc basis, as needed. 4 The lists are indicative and not exhaustive 13 Information sharing policy Information sharing within the sectors will be based on the protocol to be developed by the National One Health Secretariat (E-NOHS), institutional policies, and One Health coordination platform. Roles and Responsibilities of the NOH-FSTWG The overall roles and responsibilities of the group will be as follows: • Coordination o Collaborate with relevant government agencies, scientific experts, Food manufacturers (associations), distributors, consumer associations and international organizations to share information and coordinate actions on food safety. o Promote awareness campaigns, capacity building activities, training programs, and to enhance food safety knowledge and practices at all levels, in collaboration with OH communication TWG o Promote & prioritize National research and support the development of evidence-based approaches to address food safety challenges. o Advise on the establishment and implementation of surveillance systems for foodborne diseases and related hazards. o Implement & Coordinate data sharing and integrated food safety data reporting. o Provide technical support during food safety emergencies and contribute to the development of response plans. • Facilitate and plan to perform assessments and monitor the food safety situation in the country, including the identification of emerging risks and trends. o o Create opportunities for institutions working on food safety projects in the country to share information on activities, findings and priorities. o Maintain, establish a database of on-going programs on food safety in Ethiopia o Support multi-sectoral coordination and ensure strong partnerships among various local, regional and international food safety partners and stakeholders o Actively participate in group meetings, events, and collaborate in executing specific tasks and activities • Policy o o Assist in the review and enforcing of national policies, regulations, and standards on the implementation to food safety and nutrition. o Develop and recommend strategies, guidelines, SOPs and scale-up best practices for the prevention, detection, and response to foodborne illnesses and outbreaks. o Coordinate efforts to advise government and other institutions in the development of science-based recommendations to update existing legislation on food safety. o Advocate for risk-based approaches to food safety in Ethiopia. o Advise on effective food safety management coordination mechanisms among relevant agencies in the country. o Indicating and advising on effective implementation of food safety policy on regulation, standards and directives. • Communication o Provide technical support during food safety emergencies and contribute to the development of response plans. o Prepare, submit and share regular reports, recommendations, and technical documents to the NOHSC NOHS as required. o Develop & support food safety communication plans to promote good food safety practices and healthy food safety culture among food supply chains and consumers. o Develop and maintain communication platforms (bi-annual e-bulletin) to foster connection and coordination among stakeholders. 14 o Develop and implement effective communication among stakeholders by using different electronic media. o Develop one food safety rapid alert system which notified the food safety issues at national level to the whole stakeholders to be create uniform awareness at the same time o Participate in campaigns/events relevant to promoting food safety in Ethiopia (i.e., celebration of the World Food Safety Day) o Respond to ad hoc events as appropriate • Knowledge Management o Collect, and organize, internal & external experience and research o Recommend and follow-up interventions based on surveillance, assessment and research findings. Structural Organization of the NOH-FSWG The NOH-FSTWG will be composed of: This TWG will have a chairperson, co-chair and secretary. This position will rotate every two years. A. The group chairperson, who shall be from MoA or MoH, or from sector institution under the ministries member, with good experience of food safety and one health approach. B. Co-chairperson shall be from MoA or MoH, or institutions accountable to the two ministries, member of the group, well experienced. C. Secretary and co-secretary roles shall be from MoA or MOH or key one health sectors or institutions accountable to the either of the ministries/agencies, member of group, well experienced. D. At least one representative from all the institutions including development partners part of the NOH- FSWG. Chairperson’s responsibilities: A. Convenes meetings (virtual and/or in person) of the NOH-FSTWG, B. leads meetings of the NOH-FSTWG, C. develops an agenda for the NOH-FSTWG meetings in collaboration with the secretary, D. Facility for the development and debriefing of policy briefs, strategy and standards development and advocacy. E. Facilitate capacity building activities, training programs, and awareness campaigns to enhance food safety knowledge and practices at all levels. F. communicate with NOH-FSTWG members and stakeholders both in person and in writing related to NOH-FSTWG matters, G. plans and executes NOH-FSTWG relevant activities with support of NOH-FSTWG members, H. facilitates inclusive and equitable participation during discussions and drive decision making processes within NOH-FSTWG, I. in cases where consensus is not easily reached, the chair can decide if voting is needed, J. makes sure that the activities in the NOH-FSTWG operational framework are achieved, K. represents the NOH-FSTWG or delegates on a co-chair or NOH-FSTWG members at any official meetings in country and abroad, L. Solicits and mobilizes funds to support NOH-FSTWG activities, communicates with relevant government agencies, donors and other relevant institutions. M. Reports to the NOHSC on the activities carried out by the NOH-FSWG. Co-chairperson i. assists the chairman whenever necessary and acts on behalf of the chairperson during his/her absence. Secretary ➢ In consultation with the chairperson/co-chairperson, prepares the notice and agenda for all NOH- FSTWG meetings and distribute invitations to NOH-FSTWG members, 15 ➢ circulates all pertinent materials for meetings to all members ➢ Initiate & prepares minutes from meetings and distribute to members and concerned stakeholders with consent and approval of the chair and co-chair, ➢ supports the chair/co-chair in the implementation of the action plan of the NOH-FSTWG and communicates with all members as required, ➢ Prepares and presents annual report on performance of NOH-FSTWG activities. ➢ Ensures that decisions taken by the NOH-FSTWG are submitted to all relevant agencies and organizations. Co-Secretary ➢ In the absence of the secretary, carries out all activities listed under the Secretary roles and responsibilities, ➢ Assist the secretary whenever necessary for activities listed under the Secretary Roles and responsibilities. Other members (delegated by institutions) ➢ Attend regular and ad hoc NOH-FSTWG meetings. ➢ Demonstrate professional competence through active participation in meetings. ➢ Propose issues needed to be discussed. ➢ Participate in planning and execute relevant activities. ➢ Receive assignments from the NOH-FSWG, complete and submit in a timely manner. ➢ Contribute ideas and suggestions for improvement of food safety. Selection and appointed of food safety NOH-FSTWG Members of the National Food Safety Technical Working Group members shall be recommended by each proposed Ministries and/or institutions. In case a member of NOH-FSTWG resigns the respective Ministry or institution shall recommend and appoint another proper expert. Meetings of the NOH-FSTWG • The NOH-FSTWG will meet every 3 months. • Meetings will be held virtually or in-person. • At least one of the meetings of the NOH-FSTWG will, if possible, be conducted in person every year. The venue will rotate between MOH and MoA, or at a commonly agreed alternative venue. • Coordination of meetings of the NOH-FSTWG will be made by the secretary/co-secretary. • Invitations to the meeting and all relevant resource documents will be sent by secretary/co- secretary to the relevant participants at least 7 days in advance of the meeting. • NOH-FSTWG group may organize additional meetings when necessary. Review • The effectiveness and membership of the NOHS Group will be evaluated every 6 months by the NOH Secretariat members. • The Terms of Reference will be revised or modified by the NOH-FSTWG where necessary and approved by NOH. Meeting procedure • All meetings will be chaired by the chairperson or secretary. • In the absence of the chairperson and an appointed secretary of the committee, the chairperson shall delegate among the committee members. • If the chairperson is unable to delegate, remaining members present shall elect from among the members to chair the meeting. 16 • The committee meeting shall be conducted if 50% plus of the membership is available in the meeting. Resources • The resources required for the implementation of planned activities and meetings of the NOH- FSTWG will be provided by the NOHSC, the respective line ministries and supported by the development partners Monitoring and Evaluation • Monitoring and evaluation progress of the NOH-FSTWG reviewed by MOH and MOA in quarterly basis. The NOH-FSTWG progress should be reviewed to evaluate the success in helping the country meet its goals and objectives related to food safety. 17 Annex 2: Meeting minute of the second NOH-FSTWG meeting Meeting Notes Meeting title: Ethiopian National One Health Food Safety Technical Working Group (NOH- FSTWG) Date of Meeting: Thursday, 1st of February 2024 Time: 0830-1240 Meeting Facilitator(s): Kebede Amenu, Behailu Goshime, Lemesa Hirpe Location: ILRI Addis Campus, Konso Background The Ethiopian National One Health Steering Committee (NOHSC) was established in 2018 by an official memorandum of understanding among various relevant ministries. Subsequently, efforts have been made to deal with health issues requiring multi-sectoral actions (more specifically on zoonotic disease control strategies and general health security) with commendable results. Activities related to zoonotic diseases were largely implemented by formation of technical working groups (TWG) constituting stakeholders from various institutions. However, the activities related to food safety and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) following One Health approach, in bringing stakeholders together were not to the expectations. NOHSC in collaborating with the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) established Ethiopian National One Health Food Safety Technical Working Group (NOH-FSTWG) with an aim to deal with food safety problems in a holistic approach. NOH-FSTWG was officially launched on 27th of October 2023, during Ethiopian food safety conference held at ILRI, Addis Ababa. ILRI works for better lives through livestock in developing countries and is co-hosted by Kenya and Ethiopia. ILRI is a Consultative Group In Agricultural Research (CGIAR) research centre, a global research partnership for a food-secure future. CGIAR science is dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources and ecosystem services. NOH-FSTWG is supported as part of the two CGIAR Research Initiatives named: “On protecting human health through a One Health approach” (OHI) and “Resilient Cities” (RC). Following the launch of the NOH-FSTWG, the first meeting was held on October 30, 2023. During the first meeting discussions were focusing on the terms of reference (TOR) for the committee and the overall working modality. Following that the TOR was circulated afresh with relevant stakeholders to get additional input and suggestions. The comments and suggestions were included during the meeting held on Dec 5-7, 2023, in Adama to discuss with stakeholders on the operationalizing of One Health Secretariat. This is, therefore, the second meeting of the technical working group with the following objectives. Meeting Objectives The objectives of the meeting were: ● To discuss the pending issues (if any) from the first meeting and general issues. ● Setting key food safety priorities for actions (short-term and long-term) under NOH-FSTWG ● Drafting of the plan of actions for 2024 https://www.ilri.org/news/ethiopia-strides-towards-one-health-launch-integrated-food-safety-technical-working-group https://www.cgiar.org/ https://www.ilri.org/news/ethiopia-strides-towards-one-health-launch-integrated-food-safety-technical-working-group https://www.cgiar.org/initiative/one-health/?section=about https://www.cgiar.org/initiative/resilient-cities/ https://www.ilri.org/news/ethiopia-strides-towards-one-health-launch-integrated-food-safety-technical-working-group 18 Agenda Time Activity/description Responsible/facilitator 8:30-9:00 Registration Organizer (NOHSC & ILRI) 9:00-9:10 Welcome remarks Feyesa Regassa Theo Knight-Jones 9:10-9:40 Key points from last meeting and introducing the meeting agenda [followed by discussion] Confirm TORs Decide roles within NOH-FSTWG Outline a workplan for 2024 Behailu Goshime 9:40-10:10 Election of Chair, deputy-chair & Secretary for the technical group Feyesa Regassa 10:10-10:30 Health break 10:30-11:00 Identification of key priority actions (to tackle general food safety problems in Ethiopia) within the context of the technical group * Secretary of the group, supported by ILRI 11:00-12:00 Working on action plans of 2024 Group activity 12:00-12:30 Presentations of action plan (for final comments and suggestions- approval) Chair and secretary of the group 12:30-12:40 The way forward Kebede Amenu Lunch will be served *[By considering activities that promote engagement among food safety actors and the available resources] Discussion points Introductory remarks Dr. Feyesa Regassa, Chair of the National One Health Steering Committee (NOHSC), extended a warm welcome, underscoring the pivotal objective behind the establishment of the NOH Food Safety Technical Working Group (NOH-FSTWG). Emphasizing the complexity of food safety as an issue, he highlighted the imperative of adopting a One Health approach. Dr. Feyesa noted that the technical group had been officially launched on October 27, 2023, with its inaugural meeting taking place on October 30, 2023. It was indicated that the TOR underwent an interactive revision process, with valuable inputs seamlessly incorporated. Dr. Feyesa indicated that this second meeting of the group would focus on reviewing the action points from the previous gathering and formulating the plan for the year 2024. The significance of the present meeting was underscored, particularly due to the imminent elections for the positions of chair, deputy chair, and secretary in accordance with the terms of reference. Additionally, the agenda for the day included the crucial task of preparing the action plan. Following these introductory remarks, Dr. Theo Knight-Jones, Principal scientist at ILRI, took the floor to extend his welcome to the participants. He shed light on some of the food safety research for development activities conducted by the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI). It was expressed that the technical group can serve as a valuable platform for translating research findings into actionable policies and practices. Behailu Goshime, Secretary of E-NOHS made a brief presentation on key points from last meeting which included the confirmation of the TOR (to make it final) and introducing the outline of 2024 action plan. 19 Election The election of chair, deputy chair and secretary were carried out by thorough discussions. The first step of the election was to select which ministry, or subsidiary institute can be chair or deputy chair. After discussing on the points by considering the TOR (see below), the MoA was suggested to lead as chair and EPHI as deputy chair for the next two years. The secretary for the technical working group was agreed to be from Environmental Protection Authority (EPA). Further to this, individuals were nominated for the three positions. Accordingly, Dr. Wubshet Asnake from MoA Food and Nutrition Office and Mr. Getinet Fikresilassie from EPHI Food and Nutrition Directorate were elected (with consensus) as chair and deputy chair of the technical group. The secretary was nominated by the participants from EPA, Mr. Lemesa Hirpe. The participants unanimously approved the leadership of the technical group. Priority activities Meeting participants were grouped into two and discussed on activities priorities and action of plan to be implemented in 2024. After the participants discussed, the discussion points were presented. 20 Following these discussions, summery of priority action plans are listed below: I. Developing guidance document: This document was intended for developing a document which could guide the technical group for planning, implantation, and monitoring evaluation for the activities to be implemented by group of experts. It was mentioned that the content of the document will have several parts like searching funds, prioritized food safety activities such as situational analysis and gap analysis of foodborne pathogens, drug residues, chemical residues, and aflatoxin related to ASF, vegetables, and crops. The document could be derived or sorted from the food safety strategies developed by MOA and MOH. The document could also highlight a clear roles and responsibilities of the food safety technical group, coordination and integrations, approach of collaboration with stakeholders, and plan of implantation will be mentioned in the document. II. Food safety landscape mapping: This includes identifying roles and responsibilities, and consolidating previous food safety project results and findings, accomplished by different institutes and partners. This activity also considers Identifying potential food safety interventions like best practices that could be implemented, food safety strategic focus, and research priorities which can be used as guidance for universities, research institutions, as well as partners which could help create positive outcomes in food safety. The presentation pointed out that the technical group can articulate or synthesize these findings to develop the policy brief and inform sectors on potential improvement to be made. III. Advocacy and building social behavioural change/communication materials: this activity was designed to create food safety awareness and advocacy for the consumers and stakeholders. Advocacy and awareness platform would be created by using the food safety day and media through identifying the specific message, which then be internalizing to our setting and identifying the targeted population in delivering. The group should determine the approach to reach each consumer by considering the available evidence of their exposure to risks. Establishment of an Ethiopian Consumer Association was also suggested as a priority task for the technical group to enhance implementation and create a more impactful approach. IV. Environmental protection: For the realization of One Health, the technical group also flagged environmental pollution like water, air, and soil, which significantly affect public health as well as the health of the environment and the food animals which in turn will affect the food supply chain. Within the framework of One Health, it is crucial for the FSTWG to consider the environmental aspect of food safety. This attention should extend beyond public health and encompass animal health as well. To ensure the inclusion of environmental considerations, the implementation of environmental waste management is highlighted as one of the activities aimed at enhancing the safety of agricultural products. V. Advise regulatory bodies- Although food regulatory are focus on processors and formal markets, the participants mentioned the plan of designing mechanisms to regulate informal markets which are primarily the food markets in the country. Because Informal markets play a critical role in providing affordable, accessible and diverse food for the urban poor, while at the same time supporting the livelihoods of millions of small-scale farmers, traders and vendors. It is acknowledged that the standards 21 currently utilized in Ethiopia are not domestically derived. Therefore, the technical working group should prioritize efforts to enhance and improve the development of country-specific standards. To implement this, there is a need to contextualizing standards that are implemented elsewhere to our setting through adopting best practices and implementations from developing counties. VI. Food safety surveillance: The team believed that conducting surveillance can create better risk communication for policy makers. Action plan S.No Activities Implementation period 1 Searching fund for developing consolidated strategy 15 March, 2024 2 Draft of guiding document for OH technical group 20 March , 2024 3 Sharing with stakeholders for comments/suggestions 28 March, 2024 4 Revising OH food safety strategy document 15- 20 April, 2024 5 Validating OH food safety strategy document 2 May, 2024 6 Strategy Document Endorsement 20 May, 2024 7 Preparing workshop advocacy workshop 20 June, 2024 8 Technical group meeting and plan of activities 15 July, 2024 Meeting participants S.No Name Institution 1 Seblework Mekonen Water and Public Heath, Addis Ababa University 2 Abebe Olani Animal Health Institute 3 Wubshet Zewde Veterinary Public Health and Veterinary Service Lead Executive Officer, Ministry of Agriculture 4 Aderajew Mekonnen Food Science and Nutrition, Ethiopian Public Health Institute 5 Baye Ashenefe UK-Health Security Agency 6 Luche Diriba Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA) 7 Behailu Goshime Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA), NOHSC Deputy-chair 8 Tasew Worku Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration (MoTRI) 9 Eyasu Tigabu OSH-GOHi 10 Demeke Gilla Food and Nutrition Office, Ministry of Agriculture 11 Lealemsewun Nega Ministry of Agriculture 12 Mirgissa Kaba School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University 13 Lemesa Hirpe Environmental Protection Agency 14 Feyesa Regassa Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI), NOHSC Chair 15 Kebede Amenu International Livestock Research Institute 16 Lina Mego International Livestock Research Institute 17 Theo Knight-Jones International Livestock Research Institute 18 Abdi Keba International Livestock Research Institute 19 Getinet Fikresilassie (delegated) Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI), 20 Wubshet Asnake Food and Nutrition Office, Ministry of Agriculture