About the Ethiopian Society of Orthopedics and Traumatology (ESOT)
From the foundational vision of early orthopedic pioneers under the Surgical Society of Ethiopia to a thriving national academy of certified specialists, subspecialty groups, and accredited training programs.
Trauma & Emergency Fracture Care
Establishing standardized trauma protocols, AO operative training, and emergency clinical pathways to minimize limb loss and disability from road traffic and industrial injuries nationwide.
Scientific Research & Publications
Publishing the official peer-reviewed Scientific Journal of ESOT, convening annual scientific congresses, and fostering indigenous musculoskeletal clinical research tailored to Ethiopia's epidemiology.
Accredited CME & Residency
Partnering with the Ministry of Health to award digital Continuing Medical Education (CME) credit certificates for surgical license renewals and nurturing young surgical residents across university hospitals.
The Journey of ESOT: From 1995 to the Present
Key events, meetings, and resolutions that shaped the foundation and development of orthopedic surgery in Ethiopia.
Consensus under Surgical Society of Ethiopia (SSE)
With the beginning of 1995 G.C., the consensus made among all orthopedic surgeons was to organize under the Surgical Society of Ethiopia (SSE) to serve as an umbrella organization until surgical specialty associations were established, with a vision to eventually transition toward a national 'College of Surgeons' for professional accreditation and standardization.
Tikur Anbessa Hospital Surgical Department Conference
As the Department of Orthopedic Surgery produced graduates and specialists returned from abroad, an interested group convened at Tikur Anbessa Hospital surgical department conference hall. A dedicated steering committee was formed with the primary mandate to draft the constitution and accomplish the official legalization process.
First General Meeting & Emblem Approval
The first general assembly was conducted at Semien Hotel. The drafted constitution, the official society name — Ethiopian Society of Orthopedics and Traumatology (ESOT) — and the official society emblem were enthusiastically approved, and the first executive committee members were elected.
Ministry of Justice Registration & Inauguration
On the 2nd of January 2004, the society was officially registered by the Ministry of Justice. An inaugural ceremony was held at the Ghion Hotel in the presence of Ministry of Health officials, sister surgical societies, national dignitaries, and international guests, accompanied by keynote lectures and scientific presentations.
2nd Annual Scientific Conference & Clubfoot Workshop
ESOT hosted its second annual meeting and scientific conference at Global Hotel, highlighted by a landmark pre-conference workshop on Clubfoot organized in partnership with CURE International and World Orthopedics Concern.
Extraordinary Meeting & New Leadership Resurgence
Following a period of declining activity due to unforeseen circumstances, an extraordinary meeting was called in 2008. A newly elected executive committee led the society into a vibrant resurgence, instituting regular annual conferences, workshops, and high-impact panel discussions.
Launch of Scientific Journal & Web Presence
The society expanded its academic reach by launching its own peer-reviewed Scientific Journal and establishing its official website, creating a national platform for indigenous clinical research, trauma audits, and surgical scholarship.
Hilton AGM & 1st Operative AO Course in Ethiopia
The 2012 AGM at Hilton Hotel was celebrated with H.E. Ato Amin Abdulkadir (Minister of Culture & Tourism) on 'Medical Tourism & Sport Injuries' with recognition awards. In Dec 2012, the first Operative AO course for all orthopedic surgeons and operating theatre nurses in Ethiopia was conducted at Churchill Hotel.
ESOT Founding Members Hall of Honor
Honoring the 41 founding orthopedic surgeons who established the society, codified our constitution, and laid the foundation for modern trauma surgery across Ethiopia.
Executive Council & Leadership
Elected officers dedicated to upholding society values, continuing surgical training, and standardizing clinical practice.
Dr. Ephrem Gebrehana
An established orthopedic trauma specialist at Hawassa University Referral Hospital, Dr. Ephrem is dedicated to advancing orthopedic trauma care and education in Ethiopia.
Dr. Mengistu G. Mengesha
Dedicated to advancing pediatric orthopedic care, with a focus on deformity correction, clubfoot treatment, and nationwide surgical outreach initiatives.
Dr. Tewodros Tilahun
An established orthopedic trauma specialist at CURE Ethiopia Children's Hospital, Dr. Ephrem is dedicated to advancing orthopedic trauma care and education in Ethiopia.
Are You an Orthopedic Surgeon or Resident in Ethiopia?
Join over 500+ colleagues across Ethiopia. Apply for official ESOT membership, access verified CME certificates, view society publications, and engage in our annual scientific congresses.