Addis Ababa Seizes 123 Million Birr of Unsafe Goods Before Easter

Mintesinot Nigussie

Addis Ababa authorities have seized food, beverages, medicines and tobacco products worth more than 123 million birr as regulators intensify controls ahead of the Easter demand surge. The Addis Ababa Food and Drug Authority conducted expanded inspections targeting illegal food production, unauthorised drug sales and unsafe animal slaughter practices across the capital.

Officials noted that the scale of the crackdown reflects rising risks during peak consumption periods, when informal operators often enter the market and supply chains come under strain. Enga Erketa, deputy head of the authority’s inspection division, said inspections over the first nine months of the current fiscal year covered 21,361 food producers, distributors and service providers, plus 4,105 health-related institutions.

More than 25,000 establishments were also monitored under tobacco control measures. The inspections uncovered expired food and pharmaceutical products, the sale of prescription drugs without authorisation, untraceable goods and services provided without proper certification.

Enforcement measures were taken against more than 1,200 food and health establishments, as well as 262 health institutions and pharmacies. Authorities also imposed penalties on several professionals found in breach of regulations.

The agency said public tip-offs have played a growing role in identifying violations and urged residents to report illegal activities through its hotline and direct channels. Easter, one of the busiest consumption periods in the city, typically drives higher demand for meat, processed food and medical supplies.

The authority advised consumers to check expiry dates, quality markings and safety labels when making purchases, warning that market safety depends on stricter enforcement, compliant businesses and vigilant consumers.

The large-scale seizure demonstrates the city administration’s commitment to protecting public health during high-demand seasons and sends a strong message to illegal operators.

Businesses in the food, pharmaceutical and retail sectors are expected to benefit from a safer marketplace, while consumers can shop with greater confidence during the Easter period.

Overall, the operation highlights the importance of proactive regulatory enforcement in safeguarding public health and maintaining market integrity ahead of major holidays.