On World Birth Defects Day, Nia Foundation was honored with three distinguished awards across different categories by the Ethiopian Ministry of Health.
This recognition celebrates the pioneering work of the Joy Center for Autism, which has expanded opportunities for participation, care, and advocacy for children and youth with autism in Ethiopia. Under the leadership of the Ministry of Health, Nia Foundation’s impact has extended beyond Addis Ababa—bringing awareness campaigns, training, and family support programs to regional communities including Mekele, Dire Dawa, Asela, Wolaita Sodo, Butajira, and Debre Berhan. These efforts have also inspired global partners to join the movement for equity and inclusion. A special honor was given to Zemi and Yenus, paying tribute to their legacy and to the unwavering commitment of staff, board members, advisors, and families who have transformed challenges into strength. Their vision continues to guide the mission of uniting children, youth, and caregivers under Nia Foundation’s banner. “This recognition is not ours alone,. “It belongs to every child and family striving for inclusion. It is a call to strengthen our commitment, expand awareness across nations, and ensure that no child is ever left behind.”
The Ministry of Health has officially launched the National Birth Defect Week under the guiding message, “Prevent, Care, Include: Advancing Equity for All Children in Ethiopia.” In alignment with this national call, the Nia Foundation–Joy Center for Autism organized a high-level stakeholder workshop in partnership with the Ministry of Health and the Amhara Regional Health Bureau to strengthen coordinated action on neurodevelopmental disorders.
The workshop brought together key governmental and non-governmental stakeholders, including the Semien Shewa Zone Health Office, Women, Children and Social Affairs Offices, Education Offices, Debre Berhan City Health Office, Debre Berhan University (Department of Psychology and Health Faculty – Asrat Woldeyes Campus), Hakim Gizaw Hospital, Health Science College, Comprehensive Hospital, health centers, Ayu Hospital, different NGOs, Aste-Zereyakon Primary School, Parents, and other Partners. The strong multisectoral representation reflected a shared commitment to advancing inclusive and equitable services.
Opening the event, Mr. Bekele Gebrie, Head of the Debre Berhan City Health Office, emphasized the importance of early prevention, timely care, and social inclusion for children affected by birth defects and neurodevelopmental conditions. He highlighted the national responsibility to strengthen awareness, improve service coordination, and ensure that no child is left behind. He further stressed the need to institutionalize developmental screening and early identification within primary health care services to reduce delayed diagnosis and missed intervention opportunities. In addition, he called for stronger collaboration among health, education, and social sectors to build an inclusive support system that empowers families and promotes the full participation of children with disabilities in society.
The workshop featured different expert presentations and interactive discussions focusing on awareness creation, advocacy, care systems, and inclusive service provision. Participants underscored the critical role of integrated, multisectoral collaboration in addressing neurodevelopmental disorders and reaffirmed their commitment to building coordinated and sustainable support systems for children and families in the community.