Ethiopia Launches Master Facility Registry to Transform Health Data
Ethiopia is taking a major step to transform its health infrastructure. The Ministry of Health, in partnership with JSI, has launched a new Master Facility Registry (MFR). This strategic investment will turn the national registry into a dynamic “single source of truth.”
The platform houses data on every health facility’s activity and performance. Its goal is clear: to measurably improve health service access for all citizens. It also aims to optimize resource efficiency across the entire country.
“This is a game-changer for health system accountability,” said Amanuel Biru, Deputy Director of the JSI-led Data Use Partnership. “By tying accurate data to a facility’s legal right to operate, we guarantee reliable information.”
A Modern, Interoperable System
The new system replaces outdated, monolithic software. It is built on global standards for seamless interoperability. Consequently, it can easily exchange information with other digital tools like DHIS2.
A key innovation directly links the registry to facility licensing. A facility cannot receive or renew its operating license until its data is fully updated. This “no update, no license” rule ensures national records stay accurate.
The rollout strategy is carefully designed. It follows a phased, “learn-as-you-go” approach across diverse regions. Initial implementation will occur in Addis Ababa, Sidama, and Somali regions.
This tests the system in urban, agrarian, and pastoralist settings. The goal is to ensure efficacy across Ethiopia’s vast and varied landscape.
Building Long-Term Technical Sovereignty
A core pillar of this partnership is technical sovereignty. Ethiopia aims to maintain its digital health systems without long-term foreign reliance. Therefore, the plan focuses on building strong local capacity.
JSI and the Ministry of Health are working with Regional Health Bureaus. They are also partnering with Ethiopian technology firms for system maintenance. Finally, a government roadmap includes a costed plan for a full, national rollout.
This comprehensive approach guarantees the system’s future. It ensures that Ethiopia owns and controls its critical health data infrastructure for years to come.
