Egypt's rejection of dialogue and doubling down on its hostile rhetoric with a clear intention to orchestrate an escalation is an irresponsible behavior that should be denounced by all concerned actors, according to Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In a statement issued today, the ministry noted that Egypt's rejection of dialogue and negotiation has now become overt unlike in the past when it pretended to engage in negotiations while it obstructed progress and solutions through its intransigence and insistence on its monopolistic claims. "The policy of pretending to negotiate while refusing to engage in any meaningful dialogue has now been made public and more direct, " it added. Instead, the statement urged Cairo to move away from posturing and rhetoric and adopt a wiser course of action grounded in good-faith cooperation aimed at shared prosperity.     Learning to live with Ethiopia's development and a commitment to work in good faith towards a cooperative framework for shared prosperity and development will be the wiser course of action rather than the posturing and rhetoric that are keeping Cairo busy, the ministry pointed out. Ethiopia, it added, remains open to win-win solutions based on principles of fairness and equity, while firmly upholding its right to utilize the Abbay (Blue Nile) River to meet the needs of present and future generations. Highlighting Ethiopia’s long-standing commitment to Pan-Africanism and its history of supporting anti-colonial struggles, the ministry stressed that Ethiopia is a nation of ancient civilizations with a long track record of African solidarity; and has no room to accommodate the vestiges of colonialism that Cairo is finding difficult to eschew. The River Abbay, which originates in the Ethiopian highlands, contributes about 86 percent of the waters of the Nile basin. The Abay watershed accounts for 70 percent of the surface water of Ethiopia. Therefore, Ethiopia, like all other riparian states, has a right to utilize this natural resource, it elaborated. The statement further revealed that Egyptian authorities have undertaken a campaign of destabilization in the Horn of Africa, focused particularly on Ethiopia, with the aim of cultivating pliant, weak and fragmented client states that would do Cairo’s bidding. This approach, it said, is a failure of imagination and leadership and relies on an obsolete playbook that has never cowed Ethiopia. Moreover, the statement underscored that Ethiopia has no obligation to seek permission from anyone to use natural resources found within its borders. The ministry further reiterated that Ethiopia’s development aspirations, particularly the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), represent Africa’s broader pursuit of self-reliance and progress. A cooperative framework based on good faith would be the wiser course of action compared to the posturing and rhetoric currently dominating Egypt’s approach. It finally noted that what the world needs, what Africa needs, is more cooperation and dialogue, not confrontation and conflict.   Full text of the statement issued by Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the FDRE Office of the Spokesperson The repeated statements by Egyptian officials categorically rejecting dialogue, making veiled and not so veiled threats are manifestations of the failure of the Egyptian government to come to terms with the realities of the 21" century. Steeped in colonial era mentality, some Egyptian officials think that they have a monopoly over the waters of the Nile. They invoke colonial era treaties and harp on their supposed "historical rights". To have pliant, weak and fragmented client states that would do Cairo's bidding, Egyptian authorities conduct a campaign of destabilization in the Horn of Africa focused on but not limited to Ethiopia. This misguided approach and effort is a failure of imagination and leadership. It is time to retire this obsolete playbook that has never cowed Ethiopia. Ethiopia has a long and proud history of espousing Pan-Africanism and supporting anti-colonial struggles throughout the continent. It is a nation of ancient civilizations with a long track record of African solidarity. Therefore, Ethiopia has no room to accommodate the vestiges of colonialism that Cairo is finding difficult to eschew. The River Abbay, which originates in the Ethiopian highlands, contributes about 86% of the waters of the Nile basin. The Abay watershed accounts for 70% of the surface water of Ethiopia. Ethiopia, like all other riparian states, has a right to utilize this natural resource. Fair, reasonable and equitable utilization is a cardinal principle of international law applicable in this context. Ethiopia has no obligation to seek permission from anyone to use natural resources found within its borders. Egypt's rejection of dialogue and negotiation has now become overt. In the past, Egypt pretended to engage in negotiations while it obstructed progress and solutions through its intransigence and insistence on its monopolistic claims. The policy of pretending to negotiate while refusing to engage in any meaningful dialogue has now been made public and more direct. Egypt has rejected dialogue and is doubling down on its hostile rhetoric with a clear intention to orchestrate an escalation. This irresponsible behavior should be denounced by all concerned actors. Ethiopia's developmental aspirations and projects such as the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) are embodiments of Africa's self-reliance and progress. Learning to live with Ethiopia's development and a commitment to work in good faith towards a cooperative framework for shared prosperity and development will be the wiser course of action rather than the posturing and rhetoric that are keeping Cairo busy. What the world needs, what Africa needs is more cooperation and dialogue not confrontation and conflict. Ethiopia stands firm in assertion of its right to utilize the Abbay River to meet the needs of present and future generations and its openness for win-win solutions based on principles of fairness and equity.

Addis Ababa, December 3, 2025—The celebration of Nations, Nationalities and Peoples (NNP) Day is vital for strengthening national unity and ensuring sustainable development, Agegnehu Teshager Speaker of the House of Federation (HoF) said. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 20th Ethiopian NNP Day, held at the regional level in Debre Birhan City, Speaker Agegnehu emphasized that the annual event has significantly contributed to consolidating national cohesion and advancing sustainable development efforts. NNP Day is a crucial moment when the peoples of Ethiopia affirm their commitment to live together in harmony, he said, adding that it serves as a vibrant platform for nations, nationalities, and peoples to openly showcase their unique cultures, values, and identities.   He highlighted the crucial role of the federal system, established through the Constitution, in uniting the country, strengthening national identity, and ensuring peaceful coexistence among its diverse communities. He added that the celebration also lays a foundation for justice, equality, and democratic development. Fantu Tesfaye, Speaker of the Amhara Regional Council, also stated that the holiday was celebrated across the region in ways that promote national unity through educational programs, volunteer activities, and enhanced people-to-people relations. The celebration has both legal and constitutional backing and provides an important platform for communities to use their cultures, traditions, and values to build a shared future, she stressed. She also noted that this year’s celebration was particularly special as it coincided with the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and the execution of other major national development projects. Bedlu Woubshet, Deputy Mayor of Debre Birhan City Administration, observed that solidarity, unity, and mutual support among the people have continued to grow since the celebration’s inception. He also pointed out the significant benefits for citizens resulting from the expansion of industry and investment in the city, enabled by constitutional guarantees. One of the participants, Meset Ketsela, stated that NNP Day helps strengthen constitutional awareness and highlighted the particular benefits women gain in political, economic, and social spheres. Bisrat Tadele, another participant, noted that the event provides an opportunity for citizens to learn from one another and collectively nurture hope for the future. She added that it plays a vital role in preserving and transmitting cultural and social values to coming generations. At national level, the NNP Day celebration is scheduled to be held on December 8, 2025 in Hosanna city.

Addis Ababa, December 3, 2025—Ethiopia remains firmly committed to supporting the development of a strong, modern and integrated African statistical system that drives the continent’s development goals, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh said. The 19th Session of the Committee of Directors General of National Statistics Offices (CoDGs) is underway in Addis Ababa under the theme “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations.” In his keynote address, DPM Temesgen noted the critical role of reliable statistics in shaping Africa’s development. “We meet at a time when the link between statistics and national development has never been clearer,” he said. “Governments need timely, trustworthy, and harmonized data to make strategic decisions, track progress in health and education, monitor public programs, guide investments, and ensure transparency. Statistics are the backbone of evidence-based planning and data-driven development.” He emphasized that credible data enables member states to design national plans, manage public finances, address unemployment, respond to crises, and allows development partners and the private sector to better align their efforts and drive innovation. DPM Temesgen also noted that Ethiopia’s 10-year development plan and economic reform agenda rely heavily on high-quality data. The Ethiopian Statistical Service has modernized its operations, expanded digital data collection, strengthened administrative systems, and produced essential household and sectoral statistics to support national development strategies. Strengthening statistical governance and institutional autonomy, ensuring sustainable financing, and deepening statistical integration and harmonization across the continent are the three key priorities, DPM Temesgen stated. “Development is achieved through knowledge, analytical insight, and evidence. Reliable statistics give us the map, showing where we are, where we are going, and how to get there. Ethiopia is committed to advancing a strong, modern, and unified African statistical system,” he added. Selma Malika Haddadi, Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission, commended member states for significant gains in statistical capacity over the past decade. She underscored the importance of the Strategy for the Harmonization of Statistics in Africa (SHaSA II) in ensuring comparability, integration and alignment of national data systems with continental frameworks, including Agenda 2063. Haddadi encouraged countries to sign and ratify the African Charter on Statistics, currently under revision to address emerging issues such as artificial intelligence, digital data governance and real-time data needs. “The digital revolution offers great opportunities, but also responsibilities,” she said. “Our statistical systems must become smarter, more agile and more responsive.” Nyakassi Sanyang, Statistician General of The Gambia and Chair of the Executive Committee, noted that demand for data in Africa is rapidly increasing as governments, researchers and development partners turn to evidence-based decision-making. However, weak coordination in some countries continues to slow progress, Sanyang added. He called on member states to strengthen cooperation under SHaSA II, designate national focal points to improve communication, and carefully examine whether merging population and agricultural censuses might undermine data quality. Sanyang also urged training centers and universities to take a more active role in preparing the next generation of African statisticians. Throughout the week-long session, delegates will discuss new statistical products and emerging priorities, including AI-powered data analysis, governance and security statistics, migration data, revenue statistics and labor mobility, areas increasingly shaping Africa’s evolving data landscape.

Addis Ababa, December 2, 2025— In November 2025, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed led a series of high-level national and international engagements centered on driving Ethiopia’s development agenda forward, according to Office of the Prime Minister. During the month, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed achieved a major diplomatic milestone by participating in the G20 Leaders’ Summit hosted by South Africa and held on African soil for the first time. His presence advanced Ethiopia’s national interests and amplified Africa’s collective voice, reflecting the continent’s growing influence in global affairs. 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗼𝗳 𝗜𝗿𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 During his visit to Gondar City in the Amhara region, the Prime Minister inspected the Megech Irrigation Development Project. Covering 870 hectares and expected to irrigate about 17,000 hectares, the construction is progressing on schedule, and once the dam is completed, it will significantly boost agricultural productivity. The Prime Minister, the First Lady, and senior officials also inaugurated the restored Fasil Ghebbi. The restoration revitalized the historic site through structural repairs, improved pathways, and the careful use of traditional materials such as cedar and wanza wood. Visitor amenities, including a tourist centre, public restrooms, lighting, and security, were enhanced. Key landmarks such as the palaces of Emperors Fasil, Yohannes I, and Eyasu I, along with bridges, baths, and gates, were rehabilitated. More than 40,000 square meters were landscaped, and the entire restoration was completed within one year. In Gorgora, the Prime Minister and other officials launched the Tananesh II Ferry, connecting Bahir Dar with the new Gorgora Eco Lodge. With a capacity of more than 180 passengers, the ferry makes the lodge more accessible and strengthens tourism along Lake Tana. In Bahir Dar City, the Prime Minister reviewed the Bahir Dar International Stadium and other development projects aimed at boosting tourism. The stadium, with a capacity of 52,000, is undergoing upgrades to meet CAF standards. Seating installation and turf work are complete, and internal systems such as lighting are advancing. He also visited the Fellege Ghion Resort under construction along the shores of Bahir Dar, which is expected to expand tourism and create jobs. Additionally, an Ethio Ferries branch office is under construction near Lake Tana, supporting the city’s modernization and regional connectivity. In Kemise Town, the Prime Minister highlighted early corridor development efforts, including a 1.3 kilometer bicycle lane and pedestrian path, as evidence of nationwide progress in improving public spaces. He also inspected the Elfora Agro Industries integrated plant, emphasizing its contribution to the national Bounty of the Basket initiative and to Ethiopia’s agricultural and agro industrial growth. 𝗘𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗮’𝘀 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 Following the relocation of the Artificial Intelligence Institute to the renovated Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation compound, the Prime Minister visited the facility and noted its transformation into an efficient and innovation friendly environment. He highlighted the Institute’s rapid development over five years and its role in advancing AI solutions in health, agriculture, and services, while expanding national capacity in cloud computing, data centers, data mining, robotics, and immersive technologies. He also emphasized the importance of the new AI Startup Center, which supports innovators from idea to investment. More than 200 innovators have already benefited, reflecting Ethiopia’s growing AI driven entrepreneurial momentum. It is also in this month that the Council of Ministers extensively discussed the Digital Ethiopia 2030 Strategy during its 50th regular session, and unanimously decided that the strategy shall be implemented starting from the date it is approved by the Council. 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝟮𝟬 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀’ 𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘁 At the G20 Summit, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed advanced Ethiopia’s interests through extensive bilateral and multilateral engagements. Ahead of the summit, he met with President Cyril Ramaphosa to discuss the importance of a unified African voice. During the summit, he held constructive discussions with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva on global trends, Ethiopia’s reforms, and cooperation for sustainable growth. He also met with the President of the African Development Bank, Dr. Sidi Ould Tah, to discuss inclusive development across the continent. The Prime Minister held bilateral meetings with leaders from several countries, including the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, the Presidents of Türkiye, Finland, and France, and the Chancellor of Germany. He also held talks with the leaders of Norway, India, Vietnam, South Korea, and Australia, as well as with Indonesia’s Vice President, the UK Prime Minister, the Presidents of Brazil and the Netherlands, and the Prime Minister of Italy. Discussions focused on cooperation in climate action, agriculture, trade, food sovereignty, economic development, and sustainable infrastructure. He also met with United Nations Secretary General António Guterres to discuss multilateral cooperation, including climate action, peace and security, sustainable development, and Ethiopia’s role as host of COP32 in 2027. A meeting with António Costa, President of the European Council, reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to deepening Ethio EU cooperation. The Prime Minister also discussed African football development with CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe and development financing with World Bank President Ajay Banga. 𝗗𝗶𝗽𝗹𝗼𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗠𝗮𝗹𝗮𝘆𝘀𝗶𝗮 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗲 In November, the Prime Minister hosted Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Malaysia’s Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the National Palace. Both visits included tree planting ceremonies, tours of the Palace Museum, and bilateral discussions. Singapore and Ethiopia signed agreements on skills development and carbon credits, while Malaysia and Ethiopia signed cooperation documents covering tourism, health, air services, and city partnerships. These visits underscored growing ties and expanded collaboration with Southeast Asia. 𝗘𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗮’𝘀 𝗦𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗖𝗢𝗣 𝟯𝟮 Following the designation of Foreign Minister Dr. Gedion Timothewos as COP32 President Designate, the National Steering Committee convened with the Prime Minister to align on key preparatory steps. The meeting reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to an inclusive, transparent, and well-coordinated COP32 planning process. Throughout November 2025, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed demonstrated results-driven leadership by advancing national priorities in irrigation, tourism, artificial intelligence, and global diplomacy. At the end of the month, he also hosted General Dagvin R. M. Anderson of U.S. Africa Command for discussions and exchanges on regional security.

Addis Ababa, December 1, 2025 (ENA) — Winners and participants of the 3rd Eastern Africa Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Media Awards visited the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) earlier today. GERD has emerged as more than an engineering marvel; it is a powerful symbol of Africa’s ability to reshape its own narrative. Ethiopia inaugurated Africa’s largest hydroelectric dam on the Blue Nile last September in the presence of leaders from IGAD member countries. GERD, which has a capacity of generating more than 5,000 megawatts of power, marks the beginning of a new era for the country, placing it at the heart of the continent’s green transition. The winning and participating journalists of the 3rd IGAD Media Awards, which was held in Addis Ababa, have paid a visit to GERD earlier today. The journalists and media professionals expressed admiration for the extraordinary commitment and determination of the Ethiopian people and government in bringing such a monumental project to life. Their reflections underscore GERD’s role as a beacon of resilience, self‑reliance, and continental pride. Ayebare Cinderella, a multimedia reporter and storyteller from Uganda, praised Ethiopia’s bold decision to finance the dam through taxpayers’ contributions.   She noted that in many countries, citizens rarely see tangible results from their taxes, but Ethiopia has demonstrated transparency and vision by channeling public resources into a transformative national project. For her, GERD sets a precedent and offers valuable lessons for other African leaders. Asha Hamisi, senior editor at the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation, emphasized the importance of Africans addressing their own challenges without external intervention.   She highlighted that GERD exemplifies the sacrifices citizens can make—trusting their governments, contributing additional taxes, and investing in the future. In her view, the dam proves that Africans can realize their dreams when they unite behind a shared vision. The journalists agreed that GERD, constructed solely by Ethiopians, reveals Ethiopia’s resilience and commitment. It challenges entrenched perceptions that Africans cannot independently execute billion‑dollar projects. Instead, the dam stands as evidence that Africa can achieve greatness through determination and unity. Gabriel Gatluak Wal Ket, a filmmaker and storyteller from South Sudan, described GERD as a testimony to Africa’s potential.   He remarked that if Ethiopia can accomplish such a feat, then South Sudan, Kenya, and other nations can follow suit. He said, “Africans must believe in themselves, build their nations, and stop depending on outsiders to dictate their path.” Ambassador Nebiat Getachew, Spokesperson of Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, echoed these sentiments by highlighting the sacrifices made by Ethiopians both at home and in the diaspora.   He described, “GERD as an exemplary accomplishment for Africa, showcasing the immense resilience and determination of its people. Beyond Ethiopia, the dam’s power generation will benefit neighboring countries, strengthen regional integration, and contribute to the African Union’s Agenda 2063—a vision of a prosperous and interconnected continent.” For Nebiat, GERD is not just a dam; it is a transformative force that changes the narrative of Africa itself. During the visit, the journalists from IGAD Member States underscored that the GERD plays a significant role not only for Ethiopia but also for neighboring countries, by strengthening cooperation in renewable energy and contributing to ongoing efforts to combat climate change.  

Addis Ababa, December 1, 2025 (ENA) — The Ministry of Urban and Infrastructure announced that ongoing corridor development initiatives nationwide are significantly enhancing the livability, beauty, and competitiveness of Ethiopian cities. Fanta Dejen, State Minister of Urban and Infrastructure Development, told ENA that the government is prioritizing efforts to make cities not only comfortable and convenient for citizens but also globally competitive.     He emphasized that extensive efforts are underway to make cities more accommodating for vulnerable groups, specifically children and the elderly. "Development activities that allow cities to properly utilize their natural and man-made resources are being carried out, creating an enabling environment to preserve green spaces and reclaim lands that were illegally fenced off," he added.     The State Minister underscored that beyond ensuring fair benefits for citizens, the corridor development initiatives have created strong momentum for building modern and competitive cities. Noting that these works are currently underway in more than 70 cities across all regions, Fanta indicated that efforts are being made to expand the initiative countrywide. He explained that these initiatives, in addition to beautifying the cities, significantly contribute to economic and social activities. As a result of these initiatives, Addis Ababa is becoming a modern, beautiful, and competitive city, making it a leading choice for hosting international forums.

Addis Ababa, December 1, 2025 (ENA) — Prime Minister Abiy has appointed Ambassador Betre Mengistu as Head of the Prime Minister’s Special Office with a rank of State Minister. The Office of the Prime Minister announced on social media that the new assignment takes effect on December 2, 2025.

Addis Ababa, November 30, 2025 (ENA) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said that the “Medemer State” will center its focus on four fundamental pillars: creation, acceleration, replication, and ensuring quality. The Prime Minister elaborated this while delivering training to senior leaders of the Prosperity Party (PP) and during the session, he outlined the principles that will guide his administration's approach. Prime Minister Abiy emphasized that creation is essential for ensuring quality. "A person who does not create much cannot guarantee quality," he stated, adding that quality is a direct result of continuous innovation.     He further highlighted the necessity of acceleration. He noted that "without speed, one cannot create many outcomes within a given time." According to the Prime Minister, both rapid action and extensive creation are necessary foundations for achieving long-term, high-quality results. He explained the interplay between the concepts, stating, "When we create more and move faster, we gain the opportunity to refine and extract quality that endures." This refinement process is implied in the pillar of ensuring quality, while the combination of speed and creation leads to replication of outcomes. Prime Minister Abiy also reiterated that the central philosophy of the “Medemer state” is rooted in these four key ideas.