The Ministry of Health of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia officially announced a recruitment drive in August 2025 to hire Health Extension Workers. This initiative is part of the government’s ongoing effort to strengthen primary health care services, improve maternal and child health outcomes, and expand access to quality health care in underserved rural communities across the country.
The Health Extension Program is one of Ethiopia’s most successful public health initiatives since its inception in 2004. It has played a vital role in reducing disease, promoting hygiene, and bringing essential health services closer to communities nationwide. The Ministry is seeking energetic, dedicated, and community-focused individuals to join this program and contribute directly to improving public health and saving lives.
Health Extension Workers serve as frontline public health professionals in kebeles and rural areas, providing preventive services, health education, and basic medical care. Their responsibilities include conducting home visits, delivering health education sessions, supporting maternal and child health, administering immunizations, offering nutrition counseling, guiding safe water and sanitation practices, and assisting in malaria prevention campaigns. HEWs act as a bridge between local communities and the formal health care system, working under health centers and woredas to report disease trends, track pregnancies and births, and refer critical cases to clinics or hospitals. In 2025, the program has integrated digital tools for reporting and patient monitoring, enhancing its efficiency and impact.
To qualify for this role, applicants were required to have a minimum Level IV Certificate (COC-certified) in health extension, community health, or clinical nursing from a recognized institution. Both theoretical and practical components of training, including internships or rural placements, are necessary. Candidates must be Ethiopian citizens aged between 18 and 35 years, possess a strong understanding of local languages and cultures, and be willing to serve in rural kebeles for at least two years. Basic digital literacy is preferred, or candidates should be willing to undergo training on mobile data collection and digital reporting tools. The program encourages women to apply, ensuring that mothers and families have access to health workers who understand their needs and communicate effectively.
The application deadline for this recruitment was in August 2025, and as of the publication date of this notice, the deadline has passed. While applications are no longer being accepted, this announcement remains a valuable reference for job seekers who wish to prepare for future health sector opportunities. Reviewing the qualifications, responsibilities, and skills required can help aspiring HEWs strengthen their experience, update their CVs, and gain relevant competencies ahead of the next recruitment cycle.
Working as a Health Extension Worker provides a unique opportunity to serve communities, gain practical experience in public health, and contribute meaningfully to Ethiopia’s national health goals. Candidates can also benefit from professional development, mentorship, and exposure to innovative digital health initiatives.
Purpose of This Post
This job vacancy has been carefully prepared by Addis Zemen Vacancy, a platform dedicated to delivering accurate, reliable, and practical job information. Our goal is to make these opportunities easy to access, clearly presented, and useful for job seekers. In addition to presenting role details, we provide guidance on CV preparation, interview readiness, and practical career tips to help applicants succeed in Ethiopia’s competitive job market.
Source: Official Ministry of Health Announcement / Addis Zemen Newspaper
Prepared by: Addis Zemen Vacancy
Date of Publish: August 20, 2025
For additional career guidance, preparation tips, and skill-building resources, job seekers can explore the Interview Preparation Guide – Tips for Success in Ethiopia 2025 and How to Write a Professional CV in Ethiopia.