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K4Health conducted a health information needs assessment and Network Mapping (Net-Map) study in Ethiopia. The study sought to:

• Examine the FP/RH knowledge management and exchange system in Ethiopia at the national, regional, and district/woreda levels;
• Explain key determinants to accessing and using the latest FP/RH research and model practices; and
• Identify ways to leverage networks and resources to transfer up-to-date research on family planning and reproductive health (FP/RH) into practice.

Participants identified over 100 FP/RH actors, including a range of governmental and non-governmental organizations. Most actors exchange information through the Ministry of Health, and information is often slow to diffuse. Specific information needs differ by level: Generally, national level professionals need policy and strategy documents, while those at the regional and zonal/woreda levels need more contextualized information. Lack of functional networking and a central repository are among the greatest knowledge management and exchange challenges. Also, technological barriers to accessing health information exist throughout the country, especially at the zonal/woreda level.