Mayor Adanech Abiebie has officially inaugurated yesterday Ethiopia’s first-ever DNA, Forensic, and Toxicology Center of Excellence, a facility set to elevate public health services to new heights.

In a message shared on her social media page, the Mayor stated, "This Center of Excellence eliminates the long delays and foreign currency drain previously associated with obtaining diagnostic results. Equipped with a Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), it is capable of identifying crime suspects, verifying paternity, performing DNA profiling, tracing ancestral lineage, and confirming questionable identities."

The Mayor emphasized that this national center is vital for modernizing and increasing the effectiveness of the country’s judicial investigations. By enabling scientific evidence-based criminal inquiries and addressing legal claims, the facility will also play a significant role in public health protection.

"By consistently backing our words with action and maintaining a culture of commitment, we have prioritized the health sector over the past five years. We have built four hospitals that meet international standards and have upgraded and expanded existing facilities," said Mayor Adanech.

"Through our city administration, we are ushering in a new chapter of high technology and setting a benchmark for Ethiopia’s development in the health sector! This work will continue with even greater momentum," she affirmed.

Alongside these advancements, the Mayor expressed her commitment to further enhancing the diligence, competence, and confidence of health professionals.

She also extended her heartfelt gratitude, on behalf of herself, the city administration, and the beneficiaries, to everyone who contributed to making this Center of Excellence a reality, from the planning stages to its completion.