By staff writer Addis Ababa, March 12, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed continues to push forward an ambitious national development agenda that is steadily reshaping Ethiopia’s economic and infrastructural landscape. Over the past seven years, the Premier has personally championed and closely monitored a series of transformative mega projects designed to alter the country’s development trajectory and position the nation as a rising hub for large-scale project execution in Africa. Demonstrating a hands-on leadership style, the Prime Minister has traveled extensively across the country, inspecting progress on flagship initiatives ranging from power generation and aviation to natural gas, fertilizer production, and urban corridor development. Major national programs such as “Dine for the Nation Initiative” and “Dine for Generation” initiatives have also formed part of this broader effort to mobilize resources and accelerate sustainable tourism development and destinations. The momentum was once again evident during the Prime Minister’s recent working visit to eastern Ethiopia, where he toured key cities including Dire Dawa and Harar. The visit brought renewed national attention to the region’s expanding development prospects, highlighting transformative infrastructure projects, improved public service delivery, growing knowledge and research institutions, and the untapped natural and tourism potential that could play a crucial role in the country’s future growth. Through on-site inspections of corridor development works, modern service centers, research facilities, and emerging tourism destinations, the Prime Minister’s tour underscored the government’s determination to translate national reform policies into visible and meaningful improvements in the daily lives of citizens. Corridor Development Transforming Urban Landscapes   One of the highlights of the visit was the inspection of the corridor development project in Dire Dawa, a flagship initiative aimed at modernizing urban infrastructure while improving environmental aesthetics and public spaces. The project has transformed key areas of the city by creating organized public recreation spaces, green corridors, and community gathering areas. It also integrates modern urban amenities such as electric vehicle charging stations, cafes, commercial spaces, and improved pedestrian walkways. Beyond beautification, the initiative is designed to stimulate economic activity by creating business opportunities for local residents and enhancing the city’s attractiveness as a commercial and tourism hub. Officials note that such projects are redefining Ethiopia’s urban environments by combining infrastructure development with environmental sustainability and improved quality of life. Modernizing Public Services Through MESOB Centers   During his stay in Dire Dawa, the Prime Minister also visited the city’s MESOB one-stop service center, a modern public service hub designed to streamline administrative services. The facility integrates dozens of government services under one roof, allowing citizens to access various public services quickly and efficiently. By reducing bureaucracy and digitalizing processes, MESOB centers represent an important step in the government’s broader effort to modernize governance and improve service delivery. These centers are increasingly viewed as key platforms for building responsive public institutions and strengthening citizen trust in government services. Knowledge Infrastructure: Emerta Library   Another notable stop during the visit was the newly built Emerta Library in Dire Dawa, a large educational facility designed to support learning, research, and community engagement. The library has the capacity to serve up to 1,000 users at a time and its shelves can accommodate up to one million books, making it one of the significant knowledge infrastructures in the region. The facility is expected to become a major learning hub for students, researchers, and residents, helping nurture a culture of reading, research, and innovation. Observers say investments in such educational facilities reflect the government’s broader focus on human capital development, recognizing that knowledge and education are essential drivers of sustainable national progress. Strengthening Industry Through Quality Assurance   The Prime Minister also visited the Ethiopian Conformity Assessment Enterprise laboratory in Dire Dawa, a facility that provides testing and certification services for various industrial and consumer products. The laboratory conducts testing for products such as edible oils, petroleum products, food items, cosmetics, detergents, and construction materials. By ensuring that locally produced goods meet national standards, the facility is expected to strengthen industrial competitiveness and enhance Ethiopia’s capacity to participate in regional and global markets. Quality infrastructure such as testing laboratories plays a crucial role in supporting the country’s ongoing industrialization efforts. Community-Led Rural Development in Harar   The Prime Minister’s visit continued in the historic city of Harar, where he inspected a rural corridor development project in Sofi Woreda. The project, developed with strong community participation and the use of locally available materials, has transformed a rural settlement into a model village. Constructed through the collective efforts of local residents, the initiative demonstrates how community-driven development can significantly improve rural living conditions while preserving traditional architecture and cultural identity. Such initiatives, according to officials, provide practical models for rural transformation across Ethiopia. Unlocking Tourism and Natural Resource Potential   Beyond infrastructure and services, the visit also highlighted the immense natural and tourism potential of eastern Ethiopia. During his tour, the Prime Minister visited natural attractions including caves and geological formations, emphasizing the importance of scientific research and systematic mapping of the country’s natural resources. He stressed that Ethiopia possesses numerous unexplored natural sites whose scientific documentation could unlock significant opportunities for tourism development, job creation, and local economic growth.   The Prime Minister also called on scholars and research institutions to conduct detailed studies of the country’s natural heritage and generate sovereign data that can guide long-term national development strategies. A Broader Vision for Inclusive Development Taken together, the projects visited during the Prime Minister’s tour reflect Ethiopia’s broader development strategy aimed at improving infrastructure, strengthening institutions, and expanding economic opportunities across the country. From urban corridor development and digital public service centers to rural model villages, knowledge infrastructure, and natural tourism sites, the initiatives illustrate a multi-sector approach to national development. Equally important, the visit highlighted the role of community participation, innovation, education, among others.   As eastern Ethiopia continues to emerge as a region rich in cultural heritage, natural resources, and human potential, the government’s focus on infrastructure development, service modernization, and knowledge expansion signals a broader vision of inclusive national growth. The Prime Minister’s visit thus served not only as an inspection of ongoing projects but also as a reaffirmation of Ethiopia’s commitment to unlocking its vast potential and building a more prosperous future for its citizens. Key Takeaways From Prime Minister Abiy’s Visit Following his visit to the Nasiol Cave, Prime Minister Abiy called for urgent scientific mapping of Ethiopia’s vast natural and mineral resources, describing the site as a powerful symbol of the country’s untapped wealth and deep historical legacy. The Prime Minister emphasized that comprehensive scientific research and systematic resource mapping are essential to unlocking these assets for national development. Properly studying Ethiopia’s natural heritage, he noted, could strengthen tourism, create new economic opportunities, and improve livelihoods for communities living near these sites.   The Premier further urged Ethiopian scholars, researchers, and institutions to lead the documentation of the country’s hidden resources, underscoring the importance of generating what he described as “sovereign data.” According to the Prime Minister, relying on domestically produced research is essential for shaping national policies and long-term development strategies grounded in Ethiopia’s own knowledge, realities, and priorities. He concluded that ensuring data sovereignty and systematic resource mapping will be key to transforming Ethiopia’s vast natural and historical wealth into sustainable economic growth.   Taken together, the projects visited during the Prime Minister’s tour reflect Ethiopia’s broader development strategy aimed at improving infrastructure, strengthening institutions, and expanding economic opportunities across the country. From urban corridor development and digital public service centers to rural model villages, knowledge infrastructure, and emerging tourism destinations, the initiatives illustrate a comprehensive and multi-sector approach to national development. The visit ultimately served not only as an inspection of ongoing projects but also as a reaffirmation of Ethiopia’s commitment to unlocking its immense potential and building a more prosperous future for its citizens.

Addis Ababa, March 7, 2026 (ENA)—Amid a week marked by significant global developments, including escalating tensions in the Middle East, Ethiopia experienced a series of important national and international milestones. Those highlighted the country’s evolving political, diplomatic, and developmental trajectory. From commemorating one of the most defining victories in its history to expanding diplomatic partnerships and preparing for a technology-driven election, Ethiopia spent the week balancing reflection on its historic legacy with forward-looking reforms. At the heart of the week stood the commemoration of the 130th Anniversary of the Victory of Adwa, a moment that continues to shape Ethiopia’s national identity and influence its global outlook. Alongside the historic remembrance, key diplomatic engagements, infrastructure development initiatives, democratic reforms, and discussions on agriculture and climate resilience underscored the nation’s ongoing efforts to strengthen peace, development, and international cooperation. Taken together, the week’s events reflect a country deeply rooted in its past while steadily navigating a path toward economic resilience, political stability, and greater global engagement. Adwa at 130: A Legacy of Unity, Sovereignty, and National Resolve The 130th Anniversary of the Victory of Adwa dominated national attention this week, reminding Ethiopians of the historic triumph that safeguarded the country’s sovereignty and inspired oppressed peoples across Africa and beyond. In messages marking the anniversary, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh, and President Taye Atske Selassie emphasized that Adwa represents far more than a military victory. It stands as a powerful symbol of unity, patriotism, and national determination. Prime Minister Abiy described the victory as a defining testament to the Ethiopian people’s unwavering resolve to defend their independence and national interests. He noted that despite differences in culture, faith, and political outlook, Ethiopians were able to unite around a shared national purpose. “They were united by a common purpose, but they were not identical. They shared one nation, yet they came from different cultures and professed different faiths,” the Prime Minister said, reflecting on the diverse patriots who marched to Adwa. He also pointed out that the struggle was not only against the invading Italian army but also against collaborators who placed personal interests above national unity. Speaking at the Adwa Victory Memorial under the theme “Glorious Past, Radiant Horizon,” President Taye Atske Selassie similarly emphasized that the victory continues to serve as a blueprint for unity, peace, and sovereignty. “The lesson of Adwa strengthens Ethiopian identity and curbs narrow group thinking,” the President said. “Adwa rejects petty politics, denounces division, and despises corruption, deceit, and intrigue.” According to the President, the true meaning of Adwa today lies in transforming the hard-won freedom of the past into tangible national achievements. Ethiopia must translate the spirit of Adwa into economic strength, geopolitical influence, and strategic progress. Officials across the country echoed the view that the spirit of Adwa must now guide Ethiopia’s development—from agriculture and industry to infrastructure and digital transformation. Expanding Diplomatic Horizons: Ethiopia and Azerbaijan While reflecting on its historic legacy, Ethiopia also strengthened its global partnerships. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed returned to Addis Ababa this week after concluding a successful official visit to Azerbaijan, aimed at deepening cooperation in technology, energy, trade, and governance. During the visit, the Prime Minister held high-level talks with President Ilham Aliyev, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations. The leaders oversaw the signing of an Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Defense and exchanged several memoranda of understanding covering cooperation in agriculture, media development, investment promotion, and anti-corruption initiatives. Additional agreements included collaboration related to the organization of the 32nd United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP32) and institutional cooperation between Azerbaijan’s ASAN Service and Ethiopia’s MESOB Service. As part of the visit, the Ethiopian delegation toured major infrastructures such as the Sangachal Terminal and the Alat Free Economic Zone, key pillars of Azerbaijan’s energy and trade networks. Prime Minister Abiy also visited the country’s Artificial Intelligence Academy, highlighting Ethiopia’s growing interest in digital transformation and technological innovation. The visit is expected to open new avenues for economic cooperation and knowledge exchange between the two countries. Breaking the “Circle of Animosity”: A Call for Dialogue Another major development during the week was an extensive interview given by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), conducted in Tigrinya. In the interview, the Prime Minister discussed Ethiopia’s ongoing nation-building efforts, democratization process, and the challenges posed by long-standing political polarization. He emphasized the need to reimagine Ethiopia’s political landscape in order to build a prosperous and inclusive state. Most notably, the Prime Minister reiterated the importance of dialogue as the primary pathway toward sustainable peace, particularly in Northern Ethiopia. Referring to what he described as a “circle of animosity,” the Prime Minister stressed that long-term stability cannot be achieved through military means alone. “I do not believe these issues can find a solution through elections, the courts, or military means alone,” he said. Instead, he emphasized that inclusive dialogue, compromise, and national consensus remain essential for lasting peace and unity. Preparing for a Technology-Driven Democratic Election Preparations for Ethiopia’s upcoming Seventh General Election also advanced during the week. Speaker of the House of People’s Representatives Tagesse Chaffo announced that an enabling environment has been established to ensure that the election will be free, democratic, and supported by modern technology. Speaking at a national forum on strengthening judicial and democratic institutions, the Speaker highlighted legislative reforms that have strengthened the independence of the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE). NEBE Chairperson Melatwork Hailu stated that the electoral process is undergoing a major digital transformation aimed at improving transparency and efficiency. Candidate registration has now been fully digitalized, and voters will be able to register through digital stations, mobile applications, or in person at polling centers. She urged political parties to respect electoral codes of conduct, emphasizing that the use of technology will help ensure a fair and inclusive electoral process. Building Development Through Railway Expansion Infrastructure development also gained momentum this week, particularly in the railway sector. The Ethio-Djibouti Railway Corporation reaffirmed its commitment to expanding the country’s railway network using domestic expertise. Chief Executive Officer Takele Uma made the remarks during a field visit to the AMG–Indoode Link Railway Project, which is being constructed by Ethiopian engineers and technical teams. The project demonstrates Ethiopia’s growing capacity to design and implement complex infrastructure projects independently. “Our forefathers built this nation through sacrifice. It is our responsibility to replicate their contribution by advancing development and strengthening national capacity,” the CEO said. State Minister of Transport and Logistics Dhenge Boru also emphasized that railway expansion remains central to Ethiopia’s strategy of improving logistics efficiency, reducing transportation costs, and strengthening its position as a regional logistics hub. A Nation Bridging Past and Future Taken together, the week’s developments reflect a nation actively bridging its historic legacy with its future ambitions. From commemorating the Victory of Adwa to strengthening diplomatic partnerships, advancing infrastructure projects, preparing for democratic elections, and promoting national dialogue, Ethiopia continues to navigate a complex yet promising path forward. Officials repeatedly emphasized throughout the week, the spirit that secured victory at Adwa more than a century ago must now guide the country toward sustainable development, national unity, and a brighter future for generations to come.