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Our national network of neighbors, friends, and leaders volunteer

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Empowering Ethiopia’s Fight Against Cancer

Mathiwos Wondu-YeEthiopia Cancer Society (MWECS) is committed to supporting cancer patients and strengthening the national response to cancer and non-communicable diseases. Through its Cancer Community Support initiative, MWECS has assisted thousands of families with financial aid, counseling, and access to care. With more than nine impactful projects and over $5 million worth of medical equipment distributed across Ethiopia, MWECS continues to advance prevention, early detection, treatment, and public awareness; bringing hope and resilience to communities nationwide.

Impact

Plus, Cancer and NCD Patients Supported

Projects

$ 5 million

Equipment

$ 5 million

Equipment

+ Members

+ Volunteers

 

Focus Area

HEALTH SYSTEM STRENGHENING

The Mathiwos Wondu – YeEthiopia Cancer Society has initiated a comprehensive health system strengthening project that aims to enhance the overall quality and accessibility of cancer care in Ethiopia.

 

 

NCDS & RISK FACTOR

The Mathiwos Wondu – YeEthiopia Cancer Society has identified Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and their associated risk factors as a key focus area in its mission to improve the overall health outcomes of the Ethiopian population. 

Mr. Wondu and MWECS Profile

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Our Initiatives

Ethiopian PEN-Plus Implementation Project

Ethiopian PEN-Plus Implementation Project is transforming chronic care for severe NCDs like Type 1 Diabetes, Rheumatic Heart Disease, and Sickle Cell Disease at the primary hospital level. Implemented in Amhara and Oromia with support from the NCDI Poverty Network, the project strengthens health systems through capacity building, facility upgrades, medical equipment, and psychosocial support. Despite challenges, PEN-Plus is expanding access to high-quality NCD care.

Multinational Lung Cancer Diagnose and Control Project

The Multinational Lung Cancer Diagnose and Control Project, led by MWECS with support from the Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation, is strengthening lung cancer care in Oromia, Amhara, Afar, and Addis Ababa. With over 6.5 million Birr invested, the project has renovated 15 rooms at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital and equipped them with advanced diagnostic tools like EBUS and bronchoscopy, significantly boosting early detection and treatment capacity.

Support Food Policy in Ethiopia

The Supporting Food Policy in Ethiopia initiative advocates for a strong national food policy to promote healthier diets and reduce NCDs. By pushing for regulations on food production, labeling, marketing, and consumption, the project works to make nutritious, affordable foods more accessible while curbing unhealthy options. Through advocacy, awareness, and stakeholder engagement, it aims to improve nutrition and strengthen the health of Ethiopians.

Regional Implementing Regulations, Smoke Free Environment, and Implementation of Pictorial Health Warnings (PHWs) in Ethiopia

With support from the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (CTFK), MWECS is advancing tobacco control in Ethiopia through its 2024 project. Focused on Addis Ababa, Dire Dawa, Afar, and Somali, the initiative works to enforce smoke-free regulations, implement pictorial health warnings, and strengthen collaboration with key stakeholders. The project builds on a decade-long partnership with CTFK and continues to drive progress toward a healthier, smoke-free Ethiopia.

Our Partners & Funders

News and Update

An Inspiring and Heartfelt Message from Mr. Wondu Bekele, Chief Executive Director of Mathiwos Wondu Foundation on his cancer treatment journey

Videos