Message from the president

Dear Colleagues and members of the Surgical Society of Ethiopia,

This year, we celebrate a historic milestone—Three Decades of dedication, hard work and transformative impact in Ethiopian surgery. What began in 1994 with just few visionary founders has flourished into a thriving Society of over 1,000 members and six chapter offices across the nation. Their foresight laid the foundation for what SSE is today: a driving force in surgical excellence, education, and equitable care.
SSE has played a pivotal role in shaping surgery regionally and nationally. We were instrumental in establishing the College of Surgeons of East, Central, and Southern Africa (COSECSA), and our members have risen to its highest leadership, including the presidency— a testament to Ethiopia’s influence in advancing surgical standards and education.
At home, SSE has been at the forefront of:
• Expanding access to surgical care through nationwide campaigns and targeted surgeon deployments.
• Strengthening surgical training via surgical training curriculum development, program evaluations, and
partnerships with FMOH and regional Health Offices
• SSE worked very closely with the Ethiopian Medical Association (EMA) and other sister societies.
• Fostering collaboration among surgeons, educators, and policymakers to elevate patient outcomes and healthcare systems.
                                                       A New Chapter: The SSE Office
This anniversary year marks another milestone: the opening of SSE’s first dedicated office. This space symbolizes our growth and commitment to enhancing services for members, streamlining initiatives, and amplifying our impact. We envision it as a hub for research, collaboration , mentorship, and advocacy— empowering the next generation of surgical leaders.
                                                       Gratitude and the Path Forward
To our founders, past leaders, members, and partners—thank you. Your tireless work built this legacy. As we celebrate 30 years, let us also look ahead with resolve: to bridge gaps in surgical access, embrace technological advancements, and continue our mission of serving Ethiopia’s communities.
                                Together, we will ensure the next 30 years are even brighter.
                                                                             ከሰላምታ ጋር,
                                       Prof Engida Abebe Gelan (MD) FACS, FCS (ECSA)
                                                President, Surgical Society of Ethiopia