Joint external evaluation of the International Health Regulations (2005) core capacities of Eritrea: mission report, 9-16 August 2025

Overview

The evaluation underscored Eritrea’s strong political commitment to health security, reflected most notably in the government’s policy of providing free healthcare in all six zobas (regions) and 58 sub-zones, at all levels. This commitment is reinforced by extensive community engagement, with community health workers and “barefoot doctors” playing a central role in extending health services across the country. These foundations, coupled with a multisectoral approach to preparedness and response, demonstrate a high level of government ownership in advancing IHR capacities.

Eritrea demonstrated notable strengths in areas such as immunization, which remains a flagship programme with consistently high coverage. Community-based service delivery models provide a vital platform for surveillance and health promotion.