Haramaya University Conducts Food Hygiene Workshop for Market Stakeholders in Eastern Ethiopian Cities
The Directorate of Community Engagement and Industry Linkage, under the Office of the Vice President for Research and Community Engagement at Haramaya University, convened a workshop on food hygiene and handling practices.
The event, held at the university’s Resource Center, targeted retailers and vendors in the vegetable, fruit, and meat markets of Maya, Harar, and Dire Dawa.
The workshop drew a diverse audience, including authorities, meat inspectors, traders, and experts from the Maya City Agriculture and Trade Office, as well as health bureaus from Dire Dawa and the Harari Region.
Mr. Kemal Kasim, Director of the Community Engagement and Industry Linkage Directorate at Haramaya University, emphasized the necessity for collaborative efforts among key stakeholders—market authorities, experts, retailers, government officials, researchers, and consumers—to ensure food safety, quality, and effective market management.
“Vegetable, fruit, and meat markets are vital food supply centers. However, inadequate sanitation and maintenance can transform them into sources of contamination, posing severe health risks,” stated Mr. Kemal.
“Foodborne illnesses not only impact individual health but also strain the economy, burden the public health system, and erode consumer trust.” Mr. Sina Temesgen, a PhD candidate at Haramaya University, presented research findings and facilitated discussions on mitigating unhygienic practices in the targeted markets. He highlighted the workshop’s goal to enhance stakeholder understanding of food hygiene challenges and foster collaborative solutions.
“Ensuring urban food safety and minimizing foodborne diseases requires a collective commitment,” Mr. Sina emphasized. “Traders must prioritize the provision of safe, quality food, while government sectors and stakeholders play a crucial role in maintaining stringent standards.”
Participants expressed gratitude to Haramaya University for organizing the timely and informative workshop. They acknowledged the significant risks associated with current food transportation and handling practices, particularly in light of the upcoming festive season.
Attendees, including Dr. Abel Fantahun from Harar, Mr. Sitotaw Takel from Dire Dawa, and Mrs. Romel Aliyi from Maya, noted that the workshop provided valuable insights that would enhance their professional practices and contribute to improved public health.
The workshop concluded with a commitment from all stakeholders to strengthen awareness campaigns and enhance monitoring efforts to ensure safe food practices across the region.
Reporter: Shemsedin Mohammad
Photographer: Tewodros Lishan
Haramaya University Public and International Relations Directorate