A validation workshop on the food control system of Eritrea was held on May 8–9, 2025, at the Conference Hall of the National Confederation of Eritrean Workers (NCEW) in Asmara. The event was attended by representatives of relevant stakeholders and line ministries from Ministries of Agriculture, Health; Marine Resources; Justice; Land Water and Environment; Trade and Industry; Tourism; Finance and National Development; as well as Eritrean Standard Institute, Eritrean Chamber of Commerce, Academia, food processors, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the World Health Organization (WHO).
The workshop was organized by the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with FAO to validate information collected from the above stated institutions on Eritrea’s food control system using FAO/WHO National Food Control Assessment Tool.
Mr. Asgedom Tewelde
In his opening remarks, Mr. Asgedom Tewelde, representing FAO country office in Eritrea, stated that such events are vital for validating the findings of assessment studies and for examining key strategies and action plans for the implementation of Eritrea’s national food control system. He emphasized that the assessment is a step forward in identifying the challenges ahead, particularly in developing a legal framework that enhances collaborative efforts towards establishing a consolidated national food control system.
Speaking on behalf of the WHO country office, Ms. Dorcus
Ms. Dorcus Kiwanka
Kiwanka noted that the assessment provides opportunities for enhancing the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of food control systems. She highlighted the need to strengthen infrastructure and equipment for food control services, enhance laboratory capacity, and implement a formal communication mechanism between authorities and stakeholders.
Mr. Tekleab Mesghena, Director General of the Regulatory Services Department at the Ministry of Agriculture, stressed that food safety is intricately linked to public health, economic growth, sustainable agriculture, and international trade. He added that in Eritrea—where nutritious food security and quality are national priorities—building a resilient and efficient food safety system is essential, not only to meet international benchmarks but also to safeguard the well-being of all citizens, from farmers to consumers.
Mr. Tekleab Mesghena
Recommendations from the validation workshop
During the workshop, taking into account the information gathered by FAO consultants on assessment on the current state of the food control system in Eritrea, the following recommendations were made:
Constitute a National Food Control Policy: Aligned with international standards, which should provide the framework for organizing food control system in Eritrea.
Establish a National Food Control Authority: A dedicated authority should be established to oversee the implementation of national food control system in Eritrea.
Provide Training to enhance food control and inspection capacity: Targeted training for food handlers and laboratory staff is essential.
Improve infrastructure facilities, including laboratory facilities and Funding: Increased investment in storage and laboratory infrastructure facilities.
Conclusion
The validation workshop provided valuable insights into the current state of Eritrea’s food control system. It generated the gaps and challenges on Eritrea’s national food control system, which the government of Eritrea can use information on how to further improve and strengthen Eritrea’s food control system.
Amanuel Gebrehiwet
Public Relations
Ministry of Agriculture