Strategic Risk Assessments for the Bole International Airport (BIA) and Kurmuk Ground Crossing Points of Entry in Ethiopia

Public health measures at Points of Entry (PoE) play a critical role in protecting populations from cross-border health risks, including the spread of infectious diseases and other threats to health security. In line with the International Health Regulations (IHR, 2005), PoE are defined as places “where travelers, baggage, cargo, containers, conveyances, goods, postal parcels, and human remains/ash enter or exit a country, as well as agencies and areas providing services to them.” Ensuring that PoEs meet the minimum IHR core capacities is crucial for early detection, timely notification, and rapid response to potential Public Health Emergencies of International Concern (PHEIC).

Bole International Airport (BIA), located in Addis Ababa, is Ethiopia’s primary air gateway, handling millions of international passengers annually and serving as a major hub for Africa. Kurmuk, a significant ground crossing on Ethiopia’s border with South Sudan, facilitates cross-border trade and movement of people in a high-risk zone for various diseases and emergencies.

It’s in this Regard that ECSA-HC through the Health Emergency Preparedness Response and Resilience Project supported the Ethiopia Public Health Institute (EPHI) to conduct strategic risk assessment for BIA and Kurmuk ground crossing and also development of the Multihazard Public Health Contingency Plan for the two Points of Entry in compliance with IHR 2005. This was a continuation of similar support provided to assess and develop contingency plan for the Moyale ground crossing.

The EPHI appreciated the support and expertise offered by ECSA-HC and looks forward to a fruitful partnership that enhances Ethiopia’s public health infrastructure and fosters greater cross-border collaboration. The lessons learned and tools developed will serve as a cornerstone for ongoing improvements and expansion to other PoEs, ultimately strengthening Ethiopia’s health security framework.