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Nat'l Digital Agricultural Extension and Advisory Service Launches Implementation Phase of Roadmap
Mar 28, 2023 59
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) The National Digital Agricultural Extension and Advisory Service (DAEAS) Roadmap 2030 Stakeholders Forum formally launched the implementation of DAEAS' roadmap today. In his opening remark, Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Institute CEO Mandefro Nigussie emphasized the roadmap’s role in improving farmers’ life, especially women and youth farmers. According to him, the roadmap is developed with target in mind to increase farmers productivity income, improve farmers climate resilience, empower women and youth farmers, and improve nutrition and food security for rural households. Agriculture State Minister Melese Mekonnen highlighted on his part the development of DAES, its importance, and the role of the private sector in the implementation of the roadmap. He also explained that the roadmap has been developed using a constructive and iterative approach. "It is about empowering and enabling farmers by using digital systems …The government sees a strong role for the private sector to enable this digital transformation and implement the roadmap." Digital Economy Advisor at the Office of the Prime Minister, Myriam Said also noted the importance of digitalizing the agriculture sector in the overall economy of the country. The full-day forum whose objective was bringing together key stakeholders in the digital agricultural ecosystem to promote collaboration coordination and learning was held in the presence of high-level federal and regional government officials, representatives of development partners, NGOs, and private enterprises.
Africa Urgently Needs Concessional Financing to Build Resilience against Shocks: Experts
Mar 28, 2023 135
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) With financial, health and climate shocks threatening to reverse two decades of development progress in Africa, experts have called for urgent concessionary financing to help the continent build resilience and boost economic growth. The experts made the remark during a one-day virtual workshop on Catalysing Access to the IMF Resilience and Sustainability Trust (RST), organized by AfriCatalyst and the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA). According to the experts, a mix of shocks including food and fuel impact of the Russia-Ukraine war, climate change impacts, conflict, and tighter global financial conditions have increased Africa's development financing gap and debt vulnerability. ECA Director, Macroeconomics and Governance Division, Adam Elhiraika said that in the past six decades, every global recession has led to a rise in global government debt and that many African countries had increased their public debt. A bulk of the public debt was incurred between 2020 and 2021 when countries sought to combat the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, he added. As a result, many countries were struggling with high debt and in servicing it which was impeding poverty reduction and hindering their recovery from shocks. “Despite national and international efforts, an increasing number of countries on the continent continue to struggle with substantial debt burdens and servicing their debt, with some already in debt distress or at high risk of debt distress,” Elhiraika said, emphasizing that this was impeding resilience-building to future shocks, which is key for sustainable development. In a bid to help developing and lower middle-income countries build resilience to external shocks and achieve sustainable growth, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) established the Resilience and Sustainability Trust (RST). Under the RST, is the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF), an innovative financing instrument to help countries address long-term structural challenges, including climate change adaptation and mitigation and pandemics. AfriCatalyst, an-Africa based global development advisory firm, has developed a practical guide to inform policymakers and domestic stakeholders about the RSF’s key features, eligibility criteria, and objectives, according to ECA. The guide also explores how the IMF assistance under the RST could support the design and implementation of national macroeconomic policies to integrate climate and pandemic risks as well as the cost of adaptation into their macro-fiscal frameworks. AfriCatalyst Founder and CEO, Daouda Sembene, said the RST had potential benefit for African countries, reeling under high indebtedness. With the support of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, AfriCatalyst was bolstering evidence generation and technical advisory support for African policymakers to promote access of Sub-Saharan African countries to IMF financing under the RST. Sembene noted there was high demand for climate financing, but available resources were limited. The IMF was currently seeking 40 billion for the RST but had only effectively raised 26 billion USD. “African countries need additional resources,” Sembene said, remarking that the cumulated climate finance of 52 African countries under the Nationally Determined Contributions was estimated at 2.3 trillion USD. Senior Advisor, AfriCatalyst, Fenohasina Rakotondrazaka Maret said access to this financing will be granted based on the nations' reform strength and debt sustainability. The concessional loans have a 20-year maturity and a ten-and-a-half-year grace period. Borrowers will pay an interest rate that is a modest margin over the three-month SDR rate, with the poorest countries getting the most favorable financing terms.
Ethiopia, Latvia Agree to cooperate in Key Bilateral Areas
Mar 28, 2023 94
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) Ethiopia and Latvia have agreed to cooperate in several key bilateral and multilateral areas, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia said. Director General of Europe and American Affairs Ambassador, Eshete Tilahun held political consultation with the Under-Secretary of State - Political Director at the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Andzejs Vilumsons on ways of enhancing cooperation at bilateral and multilateral venues. During the deliberations, Ambassador Eshete briefed Vilumsons on current affairs including the ongoing peace process and the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. He said, Latvia plays an important role in the European Union as well as the Baltic Sea region stressing the need for Ethiopia and Latvia to work closely to elevate their relations. The consultation was concluded with the two sides agreeing to cooperate in key bilateral areas such as air service, agriculture, education, ICT, tourism and water resource management, ministry of foreign affairs said. They also reaffirmed the commitment of their respective Governments to work closely on global issues of mutual importance such as climate change, migration as well as peace and security.
PM Says Ethiopia’s Economy Growing Despite Global, Local Challenges
Mar 28, 2023 69
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) Ethiopia’s economy is continually growing despite all the global and domestic challenges during the past months of the current fiscal year, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said. Addressing the House of People's Representatives this morning regarding the questions raised in connection to the six months report of the government, Abiy said Ethiopia’s economy is continually growing as the ties of the country with the global community increases. The growth of global economy has been down for the past three years based on the projection of IMF from 6.1 percent in 2021, 3.4 percent in 2022 to 2.9 percent in 2023. The global economy has also been facing several challenges including crisis in the banking sector, inability to repay loan, inflation and devaluation of local currencies among others, he said. PM Abiy noted that sub-Saharan countries expected to register 3.8 percent growth as IMF projected 5.7 percent growth for Ethiopia this fiscal year. For the premier, working on reducing accumulated debt, increased cost of living, filling the gaps in infrastructure and working on the difference between supply and demand will be crucial to realize the country’s ambitions. Citing that inflation has been increased in Ethiopia for the past 20 years, PM affirmed that currently, 184 countries are facing challenges of inflation globally as 110 countries’ inflation increased by more than 10 percent. Regarding the measures being undertaken to minimize inflation, Abiy said increasing supply of productions, subsidy and budget allocation are among the measures taken by the government. He affirmed that the government has spent over 50 billion birr to subside fuel and another 21 billion birr for fertilizer over the past eight months. In terms of resource mobilization, the nation has collected 210 billion birr from tax so far this budget year which exceeded by 28 percent compared last year’s similar period as the expenditure of the government amounted to 376 billion birr during the past seven months. Man made and natural disasters were mentioned among the reasons for the rising of the expenditure as the export trade of the nation registered below the plan mainly due to the contraband trade of gold and khat during the stated period. During the occasion, PM Abiy praised the service and foreign direct investment sectors for registering better performances so far.
The Financial Sector Showing Healthy Growth, Says PM Abiy
Mar 28, 2023 57
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) The performance of the financial sector in Ethiopia has been showing positive growth over the past six months, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stated. Presenting his government six month performance report to the House of Peoples’ Representative today, the premier stated that the total loans provided by banks over the past six months has reached 172 billion Birr. The banks have also collected a total of 311 billion Birr during the stated period showing a 100 percent growth compared to same period last year, he said. According to him, 90 percent of the total loan was extended to the private sector in the country which is very important as it expedites the ongoing development efforts of the nation. The agricultural sector projects have received some 92 billion Birr loan during the stated period which shows a 29 percent increment compared to the same period last year, the PM added. The loan provided to the agriculture sector is very encouraging though it has to be further strengthened in the future, he stressed. Abiy also said that the financial sector has provided 39 billion Birr loans to Small and medium enterprises which is 36 percent bigger than the previous year same period. The financial support provided to the small and medium enterprises will pave ways to creating more jobs to the citizens, the PM added. The overall situation of financial sector in Ethiopia is health and showing encouraging growth. However, more caution is required for the financial sector as the sector at the global level has suddenly been showing failure, the Prime Minister pointed out. However, the premier stressed the need to take more cautions on the overall situation of the financial sector by taking lesson from the failure of western banks. In this regard, he urged the National Bank of Ethiopia and Finance Ministry to properly carry out their oversight activities as the health banks play key role in the national economy of the country.
Politics
Ethiopia, Latvia Agree to cooperate in Key Bilateral Areas
Mar 28, 2023 94
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) Ethiopia and Latvia have agreed to cooperate in several key bilateral and multilateral areas, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia said. Director General of Europe and American Affairs Ambassador, Eshete Tilahun held political consultation with the Under-Secretary of State - Political Director at the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Andzejs Vilumsons on ways of enhancing cooperation at bilateral and multilateral venues. During the deliberations, Ambassador Eshete briefed Vilumsons on current affairs including the ongoing peace process and the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. He said, Latvia plays an important role in the European Union as well as the Baltic Sea region stressing the need for Ethiopia and Latvia to work closely to elevate their relations. The consultation was concluded with the two sides agreeing to cooperate in key bilateral areas such as air service, agriculture, education, ICT, tourism and water resource management, ministry of foreign affairs said. They also reaffirmed the commitment of their respective Governments to work closely on global issues of mutual importance such as climate change, migration as well as peace and security.
Ethiopia Working to Solve Border Disputes Only Through Dialogue, Says Prime Minister Abiy
Mar 28, 2023 122
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) The Government of Ethiopia is striving to solve border disputes with neighboring countries only through dialogue, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said today. Responding to questions from the House of People's Representatives (HPR) this morning, the premier said there has been disputes between Ethiopia and Sudan for over the past 60 years. To peacefully resolve the problem, the two countries have established ministerial commission, Abiy revealed, adding that sustainable solution could be attained after border demarcation. And to achieve permanent peace, the countries have established relations that enhance dialogue and comes up with resolutions which benefits both sides, he added. Recall that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Transitional Sovereignty Council of Sudan Chairman General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan held discussion on the sidelines of the 39th IGAD Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, and they agreed to resolve issues through dialogue. The leaders discussed bilateral and regional issues and agreed to work together to solve differences between Ethiopia and Sudan peacefully. The PM, responding to a question related to the border with South Sudan, he said the Government of South Sudan doesn’t have the intention to attack Ethiopia and invade border areas. However, pastoralists with over 20,000 livestock have entered into Ethiopia in search of pasture land, he pointed out. He noted that the Government of Ethiopia has been engaging South Sudan to resolve the issue through dialogue.
PM Abiy Underscores Gov't Commitment to Settling Differences With Any Group Peacefully
Mar 28, 2023 119
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) The government of Ethiopia is committed to resolving any differences with some groups through peaceful dialogue, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said. The Premier responded to questions raised to him by members of the parliament on six month performance report. Government wants to peacefully resolve and end the conflict induced by Shene, which has caused numerous destruction for the last couple of years, Abiy pointed out. According to him, Executive Committee of the Prosperity Party (PP) has set up a committee led by its vice-president that will oversea the peaceful talks with Shene. Discussions have been attempted with Shene over 10 times in the last two months, the premier said adding what made it difficult though is that it is a dispersed force, where different segments of the force come up with different stand and position. PM Abiy noted “we will work hard to resolve the issue through a peaceful dialogue.” Furthermore, Abiy said that better results have also been attained in the discussions with Beni Shangul Gumez, Gambella, and Qimant, Agew Shengo though some works still remain.
Ethiopia Enjoying Much Better Peace, Stability than Six Months Ago
Mar 28, 2023 136
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) Ethiopia is currently enjoying a much better peace and stability than six months ago, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed told members of the House of People's Representatives. Responding to the many questions related to peace and instability raised at the 11th regular session of the House of People's Representative today, Abiy said, though relative, the peace in Ethiopia has now largely improved, particularly in the past eight months. The end of the war in the north is one big steps to the improvement of peace in Ethiopia, he stated, adding that more efforts are needed to ensure complete peace in the country and that requires strong collaboration of the government and the people of Ethiopia. According to the premier, it would be naive to expect complete peace right after the end of the war as the post-war situations could not be healed immediately. Noting the destructive activities of some actors challenging the peace efforts in the country, he said that there are people who deliberately instigate conflict and instill instability in the minds of the people by fabrication. The premier pointed out that there is an old political attitude that has been in practice for over 50 and 60 years which is intrinsically related with conspiracy and violence instead of dialogue. He also criticized media outlets that instigate conflict and advised the audience to be selective. “We strongly believe that peace is very important. Peace requires bravery just like war. Peace cannot be realized without efforts. Positive peace cannot be attained with force. Since saving the life of one person is also about peace, we have to work in line with this motive,” the PM stressed.
Premier Abiy Responding to Questions from House of People's Representatives
Mar 28, 2023 113
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed is responding to questions put to him by members of the parliament (MPs) at the 11th regular session of House of People's Representatives (HPR) in connection with the six-month performance report of the government. During the regular sessions, the representatives have raised a number of issues, among others, shortages of infrastructure facilities such as roads, electricity in some parts of the country; rising cost of living and inflation, economic development, impacts of climate change and drought-induced impacts as well as the efforts underway to mitigate drought in pastoral community. The premier is presently responding live to the questions raised by the members of the parliament.
Kazakhstan Keen to Deepen Cooperation with Ethiopia: Ambassador Barlybay
Mar 27, 2023 191
Addis Ababa March 27/2023/ENA/Kazakhstan Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the African Union, Barlybay Sadykov said his country is desirous to deepen its cooperation with Ethiopia in various areas. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Kazakhstan ambassador Barlybay Sadykov said trade, investment, science and technology as well as cultural cooperation are the areas where the two countries can work together. In this regard, the ambassador said that the embassy will hold a number of events to develop bilateral trade with Ethiopia. Ethiopia and Kazakhstan are currently enjoying excellent relations, stressing that the need to strengthen cooperation in various areas. “Our relations, I would characterize as excellent and promising. We have common stance on many international and regional issues. We closely cooperate on international arena especially within the United Nations. And we have many promising areas where we can cooperate especially in the trade and economic sphere,” he said. Recently we had consultations of representatives of the parliaments and Institute of Strategic Studies of the two countries, he added. "We are planning to have trip for Ethiopian business people to Kazakhstan to participate at the international Astana Forum, which will take place on 8-9 of June in Astana. So, there are a lot of areas we can deepen and elevate our cooperation to a new level,” the ambassador said. He added that the forum will discuss global issues among others, economy, trade and climate change. He underscored that the two countries have all the possibilities to increase their areas of cooperation in various spheres. The ambassador conveyed message to the Ethiopian business community to explore possibilities in Kazakhstan as there are greater opportunities for cooperation. The Embassy of Kazakhstan in Ethiopia has been functioning since December 23, 2014.
PM Abiy To Present Six Month Gov't Report to Parliament Tomorrow
Mar 27, 2023 221
Addis Ababa March 27/2023/ENA/ Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed will present the government's six month performance report to the House of Peoples Representatives tomorrow. The house will hear the report of the premier on its 11th regular meeting tomorrow. The Prime Minister is expected to respond to questions raised from members of the parliament on various national issues.
Indian Business Persons Say PM Abiy's Latest Book Will Drive Pan-Africanism, Instill Confidence in Continent
Mar 25, 2023 467
Addis Ababa March 25/2023 (ENA) The recent book of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, “Generation Medemer,” will drive a lot of Pan-Africanism and instill confidence in not only Ethiopia but also Africa, Indian businessmen told ENA. The English version of the book was introduced to the international community residing in Addis Ababa on Thursday. One the Indian business persons approached by ENA during the launching, Ethiopian Steel PLC General Manager Bhavesh Chandaria said the premier’s book emphasizes a homegrown Ethiopian and African wisdom. “I see this book driving a lot of Pan-Africanism confidence. Basically, what we need is first conviction and confidence within ourselves. Look, Africa doesn't need to read outside books. We need to create content here since we have enough wisdom.” According to Chandaria, who claims to have lived in many African countries and developed a Pan-Africanism spirit, the book will instill confidence not only in Ethiopia but Africa. It leads to the African mind set and will proliferate beyond that. “So what Africa needs a bit from my experience of so many countries is a homegrown African wisdom,” he stressed. Beyond this, the business person pointed out that the prime minister in his book attempts to bring together the Ethiopian generation through his accommodationist view. Mohan Group of Companies CEO, Harsh Kothari said the book is deliberation on how Ethiopia is positioned globally. “This is a deliberation on how Ethiopia is positioned in Africa, in the Middle East, and globally in general; and how the coming generation needs to work, needs to think and needs to unify in order to strengthen Ethiopian position globally. And it also emphasizes how each one of us have to do our own bit.” Apart from his previous books, this newest book of the prime minister takes a different stage at a more advanced age which is talking about the millennial generation to put Ethiopia in a position at a global stage, he added. At the same time, Kothari noted that the book also puts a lot of emphasis on how Ethiopia could become a powerhouse in the world, which is a paradigm shift. “It's setting a tone for the future, and for Ethiopia to be a superpower. And it's a very visionary text, which the coming generations understand, read and have an opinion, have a perspective and work on.” According to Kaushal Sheth of Indian Business Forum Ethiopia, Prime Minister Abiy has taken the initiative to write this book which aims at showing a generational description and enabling the current generation to learn a lot. “First of all, Ethiopia is a country which boasts of history dating back to 3,000 years or probably even 5,000 years. So, Ethiopia is a country which has a lot of history and tradition. And I'm sure that the current generation as well will pick up a lot of things from the past.” Sheth added that the book gives a road map on how the Ethiopian current generation learns from mistakes and tries to improvise on their future. “Generation Medemer” is a wonderful initiative by the prime minister, he stated, stressing the need to spread the word the proceeds of which is also going to a very noble cause. “So it becomes our moral responsibility to promote the book, spread the word and ensure that more and more people get involved with the reading of the book. First of all, Medemer is a wonderful thought; and also because the proceeds also go for a noble cause that becomes our double duty to promote.” Most certainly, the Medemer thought can be applicable globally beyond Ethiopia and Africa due to its inclusiveness, Sheth underscored. Deputy Convener of Indian Business Forum, Rajeev Kumar Sharma also believes that Medemer’s principles are universal and will not serve only Ethiopia. The book can play a big role and it can give guidance to other regional people like the African community, he added. “Generation Medemer,” the latest series of Prime Minister’s book, is published in Amharic, Afan Oromo, and English languages.
Politics
Ethiopia, Latvia Agree to cooperate in Key Bilateral Areas
Mar 28, 2023 94
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) Ethiopia and Latvia have agreed to cooperate in several key bilateral and multilateral areas, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia said. Director General of Europe and American Affairs Ambassador, Eshete Tilahun held political consultation with the Under-Secretary of State - Political Director at the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Andzejs Vilumsons on ways of enhancing cooperation at bilateral and multilateral venues. During the deliberations, Ambassador Eshete briefed Vilumsons on current affairs including the ongoing peace process and the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. He said, Latvia plays an important role in the European Union as well as the Baltic Sea region stressing the need for Ethiopia and Latvia to work closely to elevate their relations. The consultation was concluded with the two sides agreeing to cooperate in key bilateral areas such as air service, agriculture, education, ICT, tourism and water resource management, ministry of foreign affairs said. They also reaffirmed the commitment of their respective Governments to work closely on global issues of mutual importance such as climate change, migration as well as peace and security.
Ethiopia Working to Solve Border Disputes Only Through Dialogue, Says Prime Minister Abiy
Mar 28, 2023 122
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) The Government of Ethiopia is striving to solve border disputes with neighboring countries only through dialogue, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said today. Responding to questions from the House of People's Representatives (HPR) this morning, the premier said there has been disputes between Ethiopia and Sudan for over the past 60 years. To peacefully resolve the problem, the two countries have established ministerial commission, Abiy revealed, adding that sustainable solution could be attained after border demarcation. And to achieve permanent peace, the countries have established relations that enhance dialogue and comes up with resolutions which benefits both sides, he added. Recall that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Transitional Sovereignty Council of Sudan Chairman General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan held discussion on the sidelines of the 39th IGAD Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, and they agreed to resolve issues through dialogue. The leaders discussed bilateral and regional issues and agreed to work together to solve differences between Ethiopia and Sudan peacefully. The PM, responding to a question related to the border with South Sudan, he said the Government of South Sudan doesn’t have the intention to attack Ethiopia and invade border areas. However, pastoralists with over 20,000 livestock have entered into Ethiopia in search of pasture land, he pointed out. He noted that the Government of Ethiopia has been engaging South Sudan to resolve the issue through dialogue.
PM Abiy Underscores Gov't Commitment to Settling Differences With Any Group Peacefully
Mar 28, 2023 119
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) The government of Ethiopia is committed to resolving any differences with some groups through peaceful dialogue, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said. The Premier responded to questions raised to him by members of the parliament on six month performance report. Government wants to peacefully resolve and end the conflict induced by Shene, which has caused numerous destruction for the last couple of years, Abiy pointed out. According to him, Executive Committee of the Prosperity Party (PP) has set up a committee led by its vice-president that will oversea the peaceful talks with Shene. Discussions have been attempted with Shene over 10 times in the last two months, the premier said adding what made it difficult though is that it is a dispersed force, where different segments of the force come up with different stand and position. PM Abiy noted “we will work hard to resolve the issue through a peaceful dialogue.” Furthermore, Abiy said that better results have also been attained in the discussions with Beni Shangul Gumez, Gambella, and Qimant, Agew Shengo though some works still remain.
Ethiopia Enjoying Much Better Peace, Stability than Six Months Ago
Mar 28, 2023 136
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) Ethiopia is currently enjoying a much better peace and stability than six months ago, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed told members of the House of People's Representatives. Responding to the many questions related to peace and instability raised at the 11th regular session of the House of People's Representative today, Abiy said, though relative, the peace in Ethiopia has now largely improved, particularly in the past eight months. The end of the war in the north is one big steps to the improvement of peace in Ethiopia, he stated, adding that more efforts are needed to ensure complete peace in the country and that requires strong collaboration of the government and the people of Ethiopia. According to the premier, it would be naive to expect complete peace right after the end of the war as the post-war situations could not be healed immediately. Noting the destructive activities of some actors challenging the peace efforts in the country, he said that there are people who deliberately instigate conflict and instill instability in the minds of the people by fabrication. The premier pointed out that there is an old political attitude that has been in practice for over 50 and 60 years which is intrinsically related with conspiracy and violence instead of dialogue. He also criticized media outlets that instigate conflict and advised the audience to be selective. “We strongly believe that peace is very important. Peace requires bravery just like war. Peace cannot be realized without efforts. Positive peace cannot be attained with force. Since saving the life of one person is also about peace, we have to work in line with this motive,” the PM stressed.
Premier Abiy Responding to Questions from House of People's Representatives
Mar 28, 2023 113
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed is responding to questions put to him by members of the parliament (MPs) at the 11th regular session of House of People's Representatives (HPR) in connection with the six-month performance report of the government. During the regular sessions, the representatives have raised a number of issues, among others, shortages of infrastructure facilities such as roads, electricity in some parts of the country; rising cost of living and inflation, economic development, impacts of climate change and drought-induced impacts as well as the efforts underway to mitigate drought in pastoral community. The premier is presently responding live to the questions raised by the members of the parliament.
Kazakhstan Keen to Deepen Cooperation with Ethiopia: Ambassador Barlybay
Mar 27, 2023 191
Addis Ababa March 27/2023/ENA/Kazakhstan Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the African Union, Barlybay Sadykov said his country is desirous to deepen its cooperation with Ethiopia in various areas. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Kazakhstan ambassador Barlybay Sadykov said trade, investment, science and technology as well as cultural cooperation are the areas where the two countries can work together. In this regard, the ambassador said that the embassy will hold a number of events to develop bilateral trade with Ethiopia. Ethiopia and Kazakhstan are currently enjoying excellent relations, stressing that the need to strengthen cooperation in various areas. “Our relations, I would characterize as excellent and promising. We have common stance on many international and regional issues. We closely cooperate on international arena especially within the United Nations. And we have many promising areas where we can cooperate especially in the trade and economic sphere,” he said. Recently we had consultations of representatives of the parliaments and Institute of Strategic Studies of the two countries, he added. "We are planning to have trip for Ethiopian business people to Kazakhstan to participate at the international Astana Forum, which will take place on 8-9 of June in Astana. So, there are a lot of areas we can deepen and elevate our cooperation to a new level,” the ambassador said. He added that the forum will discuss global issues among others, economy, trade and climate change. He underscored that the two countries have all the possibilities to increase their areas of cooperation in various spheres. The ambassador conveyed message to the Ethiopian business community to explore possibilities in Kazakhstan as there are greater opportunities for cooperation. The Embassy of Kazakhstan in Ethiopia has been functioning since December 23, 2014.
PM Abiy To Present Six Month Gov't Report to Parliament Tomorrow
Mar 27, 2023 221
Addis Ababa March 27/2023/ENA/ Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed will present the government's six month performance report to the House of Peoples Representatives tomorrow. The house will hear the report of the premier on its 11th regular meeting tomorrow. The Prime Minister is expected to respond to questions raised from members of the parliament on various national issues.
Indian Business Persons Say PM Abiy's Latest Book Will Drive Pan-Africanism, Instill Confidence in Continent
Mar 25, 2023 467
Addis Ababa March 25/2023 (ENA) The recent book of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, “Generation Medemer,” will drive a lot of Pan-Africanism and instill confidence in not only Ethiopia but also Africa, Indian businessmen told ENA. The English version of the book was introduced to the international community residing in Addis Ababa on Thursday. One the Indian business persons approached by ENA during the launching, Ethiopian Steel PLC General Manager Bhavesh Chandaria said the premier’s book emphasizes a homegrown Ethiopian and African wisdom. “I see this book driving a lot of Pan-Africanism confidence. Basically, what we need is first conviction and confidence within ourselves. Look, Africa doesn't need to read outside books. We need to create content here since we have enough wisdom.” According to Chandaria, who claims to have lived in many African countries and developed a Pan-Africanism spirit, the book will instill confidence not only in Ethiopia but Africa. It leads to the African mind set and will proliferate beyond that. “So what Africa needs a bit from my experience of so many countries is a homegrown African wisdom,” he stressed. Beyond this, the business person pointed out that the prime minister in his book attempts to bring together the Ethiopian generation through his accommodationist view. Mohan Group of Companies CEO, Harsh Kothari said the book is deliberation on how Ethiopia is positioned globally. “This is a deliberation on how Ethiopia is positioned in Africa, in the Middle East, and globally in general; and how the coming generation needs to work, needs to think and needs to unify in order to strengthen Ethiopian position globally. And it also emphasizes how each one of us have to do our own bit.” Apart from his previous books, this newest book of the prime minister takes a different stage at a more advanced age which is talking about the millennial generation to put Ethiopia in a position at a global stage, he added. At the same time, Kothari noted that the book also puts a lot of emphasis on how Ethiopia could become a powerhouse in the world, which is a paradigm shift. “It's setting a tone for the future, and for Ethiopia to be a superpower. And it's a very visionary text, which the coming generations understand, read and have an opinion, have a perspective and work on.” According to Kaushal Sheth of Indian Business Forum Ethiopia, Prime Minister Abiy has taken the initiative to write this book which aims at showing a generational description and enabling the current generation to learn a lot. “First of all, Ethiopia is a country which boasts of history dating back to 3,000 years or probably even 5,000 years. So, Ethiopia is a country which has a lot of history and tradition. And I'm sure that the current generation as well will pick up a lot of things from the past.” Sheth added that the book gives a road map on how the Ethiopian current generation learns from mistakes and tries to improvise on their future. “Generation Medemer” is a wonderful initiative by the prime minister, he stated, stressing the need to spread the word the proceeds of which is also going to a very noble cause. “So it becomes our moral responsibility to promote the book, spread the word and ensure that more and more people get involved with the reading of the book. First of all, Medemer is a wonderful thought; and also because the proceeds also go for a noble cause that becomes our double duty to promote.” Most certainly, the Medemer thought can be applicable globally beyond Ethiopia and Africa due to its inclusiveness, Sheth underscored. Deputy Convener of Indian Business Forum, Rajeev Kumar Sharma also believes that Medemer’s principles are universal and will not serve only Ethiopia. The book can play a big role and it can give guidance to other regional people like the African community, he added. “Generation Medemer,” the latest series of Prime Minister’s book, is published in Amharic, Afan Oromo, and English languages.
Social
Gov’t Exerting Efforts to Improve Education, Health Sectors: PM Abiy
Mar 28, 2023 105
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed disclosed that the government of Ethiopia has been working hard to improve the education and health sectors of the country. During the House of People’s Representatives 11 Regular meeting Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has responded to questions raised by members of the parliament. The Prime Minister on the occasion said the government has been working hard in the social sectors. Abiy stressed the need to do more in the education and health sectors and anti-corruption campaign in Ethiopia. According to him, the government has carried out various activities to improve the services delivery of the education and health sectors, but more is needed to be done. Stating that the Ministry of Education has been implementing the education road map prepared four years ago, the Prime Minister said it is undertaking broad reforms accordingly. Based on the road map, the government is expanding educational facilities and improving educational services quality in lower levels, including kindergarten, primary and secondary schools. In the health sector, he pointed out; effort is continuing to expand basic health institutions and supply of medicines. Although foreign currency shortage is obstructing laboratories and pharmaceutical supply, the government and private sector are doing various works to address the challenges and more work is needed in the sector, he added. Moreover, the government is also embarking on the fight against corruption despite some challenges in fighting the complex corruption issue in Ethiopia. But the fight against corruption will continue to strengthen at any cost, the Prime Minister added.
Al Basar International Foundation Providing Free Eye Treatment Service at Alert Hospital
Mar 18, 2023 235
Addis Ababa March 18/2023 /ENA/ Al Basar International Foundation launched a volunteer service program to provide free eye check-up and cataract surgery at Alert Hospital. Some 10, 000 residents are expected to benefit from physical examination of eye treatment and about 400 cases to be operated for cataract starting from March 17, 2023. Manager of Medical Team of Al Basar International Foundation, Farhruddin Dakhan said the objective of the volunteer to Ethiopia is to provide free eye services to the people suffering of eye blindness. He added that in the future the organization plans to go out through Ethiopia and look forward to have permanent base in Addis Ababa for sustainable and quality eye care service. Speaking at the occasion, senior advisor to the Ministry of Health Dr. Daniel Gebremichael on his part said we have been working with Al Basir Foundation for more than two decades and more than half million people benefited because of this foundation. More than 50 thousand cataract surgeries have been carried out on our patients for free, enabling more than 50 thousand Ethiopians to have recovered from their sight problems.. He explained that this is very important humanitarian activities, in this round, more than 30 thousand patients will be benefited from this mission. Last week, they were in Jimma and Worabe Hospital where more than 20 thousand patients received medical treatment especially with eye drops., he said. “In Ethiopia we have around 1.5 million people with low vision; most of them are because of cataract and trachoma. And cataract is actually the leading cause of blindness in Ethiopia and elsewhere in developing countries which can be prevented with simple surgical service,” he said. According to the advisor, given the number of cataract centers we have and the number of ophthalmology in the country, we have huge backlogs, where we need support from partners like Al Baser and others to support the people in need of recovery from sight problems. As we have only five tertiary centers for eye surgery, we need support to build hospital in Addis and elsewhere. Head of the Department of ophthalmology of Alert Hospital, Dr. Solomon Bussa on his part said it is for the third time that this organization is coming and doing cataract surgery and management of ophthalmologic disease.
FAO Provides Support to 4m People in East Africa
Mar 18, 2023 322
Addis Ababa March 18/2023 /ENA/ The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has reached out to 4 million people in need of humanitarian assistance in east Africa but the gap remains huge, FAO Representative to Eastern Africa and AU Chimimba David Phiri said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Phiri said that the Horn of Africa has been affected by five serious droughts over the past few years which is the worst in forty years. FAO appealed for resources with a view to saving lives as well as saving livelihoods of the affected communities, he stated, and added “we have also requested funding for making sure that there is development and resilience, so that the communities do not fall into a situation where they need assistance at any point in time.” “So this is a sign that the program is huge because we expect that as many as 26 million people need support but FAO has reached out to 4 million. Of course other agencies have reached out to others but the gap between what we have now and where we need to be is very big,” the East Africa Representative noted. To date we have spent 120 million USD and reached nearly 4 million people with the support that we provided, Phiri added. He stressed “we are afraid that if not all support is provided to the people in particular the affected people of Ethiopia, Kenya, parts of Uganda, Djibouti, and Somalia, we could run into a serious famine by the end of this year.” FAO is providing feed, water and livestock vaccination against pests as well as enhancing capacity of the community to produce their own feed under serious drought conditions, it was indicated. The crisis in the Horn of Africa is not just drought but also coupled with Russia-Ukraine war, climate, conflicts and the biggest desert locust invasion in history of Africa, he pointed out. “So the vulnerability is already very bad and when you add the drought, it worsens that situation. So I think the international community needs to really build the resilience of the communities by providing the resources that they need, so that they can stand on their own. FAO does not itself as an organization provide food, we do provide feed to animals, but also provide livelihood’s support to them through animal or crop production and through providing them implements for sustainable agriculture, and also build capacities to make sure that they practice climate smart agriculture,” Phiri elaborated. He called on partners to scale up their commitment in providing the resources that are required to save lives and livelihoods in eastern Africa as the demand is a lot more than what is on the ground.
WFP Calls on Donors to Step-up Support for Somaliland Refugees in Ethiopia
Mar 16, 2023 872
Addis Ababa March 16/2023 (ENA) The World Food Program (WFP) has urged donors to step up the level of support for some 100,000 Somaliland refugees who have fled to Ethiopia recently. Recall that about 100,000 Somaliland refugees, most of them women, pregnant and lactating mothers, unaccompanied children, elderly persons with serious medical conditions and disabilities, arrived at Doolo Zone of Somali Region, Ethiopia. In an exclusive interview with ENA, WFP Representative and Country Director Claude Jibidar said it is a sad situation to witness those Somaliland citizens forced to flee their homes due to conflict. Citing the gravity of the problem, he stated that WFP has “already provided some distributions. Distribution of food has been started and delivered for those people.” Partners too have been supplying water, shelter, and everybody is mobilized to respond, the country director said, adding that it seems like this is a situation that will not change overnight. Therefore “we need to step up the level of support so that we can sustain those people until they can go back home,” Jibidar said. “My appeal is to all the supporters. I know the government through Ethiopia’s Refugees and Returnees Service is doing a lot to support and we will also do our best. I am also appealing to donors to look at this situation so that we can help those people while they are here.” The WFP representative also expressed readiness to help the refugees when they go back and can resettle in their own home. The Ethiopian host communities have generously welcomed the refugees, sharing them the little they have in one of the areas hardest hit by drought affecting the Horn of Africa. The Refugees and Returnees Service and the UNHCR have together affirmed last week that many of the families have settled within the communities in common buildings or in open areas. “The Government of Ethiopia, having maintained its longstanding generosity to asylum seekers, is receiving the needy by keeping the humanitarian and civilian nature of the overall response,” Refugees and Returnees Service (RRS) Director-General Tesfahun Gobezay said. According to him, “RRS and the UNHCR are coordinating with federal and regional government bodies, UN agencies and other partners to respond to the needs of the newly arrived asylum-seekers.” UNHCR Country Representative Mamadou Dian Balde noted that Ethiopians have “once again shown tremendous generosity by keeping their doors open for their Somali brothers and sisters in need of protection.”
Economy
Nat'l Digital Agricultural Extension and Advisory Service Launches Implementation Phase of Roadmap
Mar 28, 2023 59
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) The National Digital Agricultural Extension and Advisory Service (DAEAS) Roadmap 2030 Stakeholders Forum formally launched the implementation of DAEAS' roadmap today. In his opening remark, Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Institute CEO Mandefro Nigussie emphasized the roadmap’s role in improving farmers’ life, especially women and youth farmers. According to him, the roadmap is developed with target in mind to increase farmers productivity income, improve farmers climate resilience, empower women and youth farmers, and improve nutrition and food security for rural households. Agriculture State Minister Melese Mekonnen highlighted on his part the development of DAES, its importance, and the role of the private sector in the implementation of the roadmap. He also explained that the roadmap has been developed using a constructive and iterative approach. "It is about empowering and enabling farmers by using digital systems …The government sees a strong role for the private sector to enable this digital transformation and implement the roadmap." Digital Economy Advisor at the Office of the Prime Minister, Myriam Said also noted the importance of digitalizing the agriculture sector in the overall economy of the country. The full-day forum whose objective was bringing together key stakeholders in the digital agricultural ecosystem to promote collaboration coordination and learning was held in the presence of high-level federal and regional government officials, representatives of development partners, NGOs, and private enterprises.
Africa Urgently Needs Concessional Financing to Build Resilience against Shocks: Experts
Mar 28, 2023 135
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) With financial, health and climate shocks threatening to reverse two decades of development progress in Africa, experts have called for urgent concessionary financing to help the continent build resilience and boost economic growth. The experts made the remark during a one-day virtual workshop on Catalysing Access to the IMF Resilience and Sustainability Trust (RST), organized by AfriCatalyst and the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA). According to the experts, a mix of shocks including food and fuel impact of the Russia-Ukraine war, climate change impacts, conflict, and tighter global financial conditions have increased Africa's development financing gap and debt vulnerability. ECA Director, Macroeconomics and Governance Division, Adam Elhiraika said that in the past six decades, every global recession has led to a rise in global government debt and that many African countries had increased their public debt. A bulk of the public debt was incurred between 2020 and 2021 when countries sought to combat the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, he added. As a result, many countries were struggling with high debt and in servicing it which was impeding poverty reduction and hindering their recovery from shocks. “Despite national and international efforts, an increasing number of countries on the continent continue to struggle with substantial debt burdens and servicing their debt, with some already in debt distress or at high risk of debt distress,” Elhiraika said, emphasizing that this was impeding resilience-building to future shocks, which is key for sustainable development. In a bid to help developing and lower middle-income countries build resilience to external shocks and achieve sustainable growth, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) established the Resilience and Sustainability Trust (RST). Under the RST, is the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF), an innovative financing instrument to help countries address long-term structural challenges, including climate change adaptation and mitigation and pandemics. AfriCatalyst, an-Africa based global development advisory firm, has developed a practical guide to inform policymakers and domestic stakeholders about the RSF’s key features, eligibility criteria, and objectives, according to ECA. The guide also explores how the IMF assistance under the RST could support the design and implementation of national macroeconomic policies to integrate climate and pandemic risks as well as the cost of adaptation into their macro-fiscal frameworks. AfriCatalyst Founder and CEO, Daouda Sembene, said the RST had potential benefit for African countries, reeling under high indebtedness. With the support of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, AfriCatalyst was bolstering evidence generation and technical advisory support for African policymakers to promote access of Sub-Saharan African countries to IMF financing under the RST. Sembene noted there was high demand for climate financing, but available resources were limited. The IMF was currently seeking 40 billion for the RST but had only effectively raised 26 billion USD. “African countries need additional resources,” Sembene said, remarking that the cumulated climate finance of 52 African countries under the Nationally Determined Contributions was estimated at 2.3 trillion USD. Senior Advisor, AfriCatalyst, Fenohasina Rakotondrazaka Maret said access to this financing will be granted based on the nations' reform strength and debt sustainability. The concessional loans have a 20-year maturity and a ten-and-a-half-year grace period. Borrowers will pay an interest rate that is a modest margin over the three-month SDR rate, with the poorest countries getting the most favorable financing terms.
PM Says Ethiopia’s Economy Growing Despite Global, Local Challenges
Mar 28, 2023 69
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) Ethiopia’s economy is continually growing despite all the global and domestic challenges during the past months of the current fiscal year, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said. Addressing the House of People's Representatives this morning regarding the questions raised in connection to the six months report of the government, Abiy said Ethiopia’s economy is continually growing as the ties of the country with the global community increases. The growth of global economy has been down for the past three years based on the projection of IMF from 6.1 percent in 2021, 3.4 percent in 2022 to 2.9 percent in 2023. The global economy has also been facing several challenges including crisis in the banking sector, inability to repay loan, inflation and devaluation of local currencies among others, he said. PM Abiy noted that sub-Saharan countries expected to register 3.8 percent growth as IMF projected 5.7 percent growth for Ethiopia this fiscal year. For the premier, working on reducing accumulated debt, increased cost of living, filling the gaps in infrastructure and working on the difference between supply and demand will be crucial to realize the country’s ambitions. Citing that inflation has been increased in Ethiopia for the past 20 years, PM affirmed that currently, 184 countries are facing challenges of inflation globally as 110 countries’ inflation increased by more than 10 percent. Regarding the measures being undertaken to minimize inflation, Abiy said increasing supply of productions, subsidy and budget allocation are among the measures taken by the government. He affirmed that the government has spent over 50 billion birr to subside fuel and another 21 billion birr for fertilizer over the past eight months. In terms of resource mobilization, the nation has collected 210 billion birr from tax so far this budget year which exceeded by 28 percent compared last year’s similar period as the expenditure of the government amounted to 376 billion birr during the past seven months. Man made and natural disasters were mentioned among the reasons for the rising of the expenditure as the export trade of the nation registered below the plan mainly due to the contraband trade of gold and khat during the stated period. During the occasion, PM Abiy praised the service and foreign direct investment sectors for registering better performances so far.
The Financial Sector Showing Healthy Growth, Says PM Abiy
Mar 28, 2023 57
Addis Ababa March 28/2023 (ENA) The performance of the financial sector in Ethiopia has been showing positive growth over the past six months, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stated. Presenting his government six month performance report to the House of Peoples’ Representative today, the premier stated that the total loans provided by banks over the past six months has reached 172 billion Birr. The banks have also collected a total of 311 billion Birr during the stated period showing a 100 percent growth compared to same period last year, he said. According to him, 90 percent of the total loan was extended to the private sector in the country which is very important as it expedites the ongoing development efforts of the nation. The agricultural sector projects have received some 92 billion Birr loan during the stated period which shows a 29 percent increment compared to the same period last year, the PM added. The loan provided to the agriculture sector is very encouraging though it has to be further strengthened in the future, he stressed. Abiy also said that the financial sector has provided 39 billion Birr loans to Small and medium enterprises which is 36 percent bigger than the previous year same period. The financial support provided to the small and medium enterprises will pave ways to creating more jobs to the citizens, the PM added. The overall situation of financial sector in Ethiopia is health and showing encouraging growth. However, more caution is required for the financial sector as the sector at the global level has suddenly been showing failure, the Prime Minister pointed out. However, the premier stressed the need to take more cautions on the overall situation of the financial sector by taking lesson from the failure of western banks. In this regard, he urged the National Bank of Ethiopia and Finance Ministry to properly carry out their oversight activities as the health banks play key role in the national economy of the country.
Technology
Ethiopia, Sudan Sign MoU to Cooperate on Telecom & Digital Transformation
Mar 16, 2023 292
Addis Ababa March 16/2023 (ENA) Ethiopia's Ministry of Innovation and Technology and Sudan’s Ministry of Telecommunication and Digital Transformation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today to cooperate on telecommunication and digital transformation sectors. Innovation and Technology Minister Belete Mola and Sudanese Minister of Telecommunication and Digital Transformation, Adel Hassan Mohamed Hussein signed the MoU in Addis Ababa. The implementation of the agreement is expected to improve people to people relations, experience sharing and cooperation on security issues between the two countries. Innovation and Technology Minister Belete Mola said at the occasion that his ministry is committed to implement the MoU aimed at cooperating on telecommunication and digital transformation. “I was looking at the MoU,” Belete said, further pointing out, “There is strategy wise, policy wise, there is a lot that we are supposed to work together with our parallel Sudanese ministry and all other institutions around the ministry.” “We will be very much happy to make sure that the articles put in the MoU will be put into effect so to the benefit of our two sisterly countries and we will remain committed and again we are happy to have this relationship with our sister country Sudan.” The two big countries with huge potential have been playing star role in socio-political-economic affairs of the region and have to work and achieve more together not only for the benefit of the countries but also for the security and development of the region, he added. Sudanese Minister of Telecommunication and Digital Transformation, Adel Hassan Mohamed Hussein expressed readiness to start a new era of collaboration with Ethiopia. “We are so pleased to have this meeting today, to meet you and your team. Ethiopia is a sister country and we are looking forward to start a new era of collaboration. Yes, we are so close in the past, but we will be closer in the future.” The signing of the MoU by the Sudanese and Ethiopian ministries for cooperation in ICT and digital transformation is to tap into the unlimited opportunities in the field of telecom and digital transformation. “It gives me great pleasure and honor to meet you today your Excellency and witness a signing of the MoU between the government of Sudan and Ethiopia for cooperation in ICT and digital transformation.” Noting the unlimited opportunities in this field, the minister stressed the need for real cooperation and coordination. “We are looking forward to get the most benefit from this collaboration in exchanging knowledge, experience, technology, and even developing co-projects for the people of both countries.” The Sudanese minister has invited his counterpart to visit Sudan to reflect on the MoU together and incorporate it into a daily work and he accepted the invitation.
E-Government Strategy and Enterprise Architecture for Ethiopia Launched
Mar 16, 2023 397
Addis Ababa March 16/2023 (ENA) Ministry of Innovation and Technology and the Delegation of the European Union to Ethiopia launched a five-year e-Government Strategy and Enterprise Architecture for Ethiopia today. Innovation and Technology Minister Belete Molla said implementing the project will improve government services delivery, facilitate digital economy, and foster socio-economic development. “ I am sufficiently informed that the ultimate goal of this project is to enable the Government of Ethiopia to be more efficient, result oriented, and to provide citizen-centered, secure and integrated e-governance services.” According to him, the implementation of this project will go a long way to strengthen Ethiopia in the global digital economy by facilitating digital transformation for rapid, inclusive socio-economic wellbeing of our citizens. A policy framework articulated under the Digital Ethiopia 2025 Strategy is enabling utilization of digital technologies across the sectors of the economy to improve the services, Belete noted. EU Delegation to Ethiopia Economy and Infrastructure Team Leader, Sanne Willems said the Union funded the project that will be implemented by the ministry. This is part of “a large project of 10-million-Euros to support the business environment and investment climate, including e-governance services,” she added. The team leader pointed out that effective implementation of the project will enable the government to improve services delivery in an inclusive and transparent way. The project also aligns with to the SDG-16 target and contributes to the strengthening of peace and justice institutions. Willems stated that the EU and Ethiopia have been cooperating on various areas for over four decades.
Int'l Atomic Energy Agency Expresses Keenness to Enhance Cooperation with Africa in Civilian Nuclear Technology
Mar 13, 2023 412
Addis Ababa March 13/2023 (ENA) The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has expressed its interest to enhance cooperation with Africa in civilian nuclear technology, Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Technical Cooperation, Hua Liu said. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), representatives of nearly 40 African countries including the African Regional Cooperative Agreement for Research, Development and Training Related to Nuclear Science and Technology (AFRA), are participating in the 2023 annual National Liaison Officers meeting here in Addis Ababa. The annual meeting being held under the theme, "Paradigm Shift," is aimed at enhancing the technical collaboration between African countries and IAEA. The 5-day meeting is expected to emphasize the significance of embracing change and innovation to achieve sustainable development goals through nuclear science and technology, it was learned. Speaking at the event, Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Technical Cooperation, IAEA, Hua Liu said the meeting aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the technical cooperation programme in Africa. Significant progress has been made in the region in recent years, he said , adding it is essential that Africa continue its efforts to develop and implement a programme of maximum benefit to the countries Socio-economic development. According to him, IAEA has launched a number of key initiatives such as Rays of Hope, NUTEC Plastics, and the Zoonotic Disease Integrated Action (ZODIAC), which are of particular importance to the African region. The agency will continue to provide support for the new comer countries in nuclear energy, especially in small modular reactor through interregional projects, he vowed. The programmes that his agency launched is also contributing to global efforts to address climate change. Growing number of African member states are focusing their attention on nuclear power, research reactors and irradiation technology, he said, adding his agency encourage Africa to take advantage of the support that the Agency offers in these areas. "IAEA also launched a program aimed at encouraging the next generation of women nuclear professionals by offering scholarships for their master degrees in nuclear topics’, he said. Speaking at the event, Ethiopian Minister of Innovation and Technology, Dr. Belete Molla, said as a founding member of the IAEA, since its establishment in 1957, my country through the years has enhanced its collaboration with the Agency. He further stated that Ethiopia is highly committed and strongly supportive to the mandates of the Agency towards nonproliferation, nuclear safety and promoting peaceful applications of Nuclear Science and Technology for sustainable development. "We have a strong commitment of my government in collaborating and promoting technical cooperation with the Agency in key socio-economic sectors such as agriculture and food security, human health, water resource management, environment, manufacturing industry and power generation and in advancing Nuclear Science and Technology for sustainable development." Ethiopia is committed for advancing Nuclear Science and Technology for development including exploring the potential of nuclear power for electricity generation, he said. According to him, substantive measures are underway to establish the Center for Nuclear Science and Technology (CNST) through establishing an institute to sustainably manage the sector. "We are investing in research and development, constructing the necessary infrastructure, and developing policies and programs to support innovative businesses and entrepreneurs in all sectors," he added. This meeting will provide a vital platform for exchanging ideas and best practices, fostering new collaborations, and building partnerships, the minister stated. By working together, we can achieve sustainable development goals, leveraging the power of nuclear science and technology to create a more sustainable future for all, he noted. Speaking on his behalf, Director for the Division for Africa of the Department of Technical Cooperation, Professor Shaukat Abdulrazak, said our gathering here will help us find ways to share information and means, which help us produce documents and results based management. The meeting will also help us address together some of the bottlenecks, he added. Technical cooperation program is a shared responsibility, that IAEA play role, he added. The National Liaison Officers and AFRA National Coordinators meeting will remain in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia will remain open until 17 of March and expected to adopt concrete measures and actions to further improve the planning and formulation of the next Technical Cooperation cycle for 2024-2025.
Ethio-telecom Sells over 39,000 SIM Cards to Residents of Shire City
Mar 4, 2023 625
March 4/2023 Shire City Ethio-telecom Sales Center in Tigray region disclosed that it has sold over 39,000 SIM cards in the last two months alone, and collected close to two million Birr revenue from various services. Following the peace agreement, the Government of Ethiopia has been actively engaged in reconstruction and restoration of basic services in areas severely affected by the war. Accordingly, essential services like air travel, telecom, banking, electricity have been restored in the city. Shire City Ethio-Telecom Sales Center Coordinator, Andom Belay told ENA that the center has been providing services for customers, following the peace agreement. The staff of the center are working hard to meet the demand of needs of the high number of customers, he said. The coordinator stated that the center sold over 39,000 SIM cards to customers in the last two months. Moreover, the center is also providing other services, including change of SIM card, tele Birr services, 3-G Internet and broadband data sales. Thus, close to two million Birr revenue was secured from SIM card sales and other additional services, Andom added. Similarly, transportation service has been restored from Shire City to the regional capital Mekelle and other towns in the region. Passengers and drivers told ENA that the difficulty they faced during the conflict in the region has been resolved as they can travel in the region. Following the peace deal, provisions of service in the different sectors have returned to normalcy.
Sport
22nd Edition of Great Ethiopian Run Colorfully Held in Addis Ababa
Nov 20, 2022 607
Addis Ababa November 20/2022/ENA/ The 22nd edition of Great Ethiopian Run was held today in Addis Ababa with participation of more than 40,000 people. President Sahle-Work Zewde, Addis Ababa Mayor, Adanech Abiebie, Minister of Culture and Tourism, Kejela Merdasa and other senior government officials as well guests including renowned Kenyan athletes and tourists attended the 10 killo Meter annual street race held at Meskel Square in the capital. The Great Ethiopian Run is the first biggest event in Africa and sixth in the world’s international street races. The Great Ethiopian Run is believed to be one of the most important events to promoting tourism in Ethiopia. It was indicated that the Great Ethiopian Run has successfully conducted more than 100 races in various cities in the country over the past years. Ethiopia's famous long-distance runner, Haile Gebrselassie founded the race in 2000.
PM Inaugurates Sport Center in Capital City
Oct 27, 2022 618
Addis Ababa October 27,2022 Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has inaugurated a newly rebuilt sport center in Arada sub-city of Addis Ababa today. The previous "15 Meda" sport center was not conducive for physical activities. Therefore, Prime Minister Abiy took the initiative to build a new the sport center with the participation of stakeholders, it was learned. The renovated center was inaugurated today and will provide its previous services. The reconstruction of the sport center is part of the winter volunteer project, it was learned.
City Administration Expresses Gratitude to Victorious Nat'l Athletics Team
Jul 29, 2022 583
Addis Ababa July 29/2022/ENA/ The Addis Ababa City Administration held a Thanksgiving ceremony for the Ethiopian athletics team that registered stunning victory at the Oregon World Athletics Championship 2022. The athletic team, which stood second after the US in the medal list, was earlier given warm reception by President Sahle-Work Zewde at the National Palace and the outstanding members awarded. The City Administration Council of Addis Ababa also awarded 10 million Birr prize in total to the athletes who participated in the competition. In addition, the athletes who won gold, silver and bronze medals were given 500 to 250 square meters of land based on their results. Speaking on the occasion, Mayor Adanech Abebie said that the athletes have once again raised Ethiopia's honor in the world arena. "History testifies that we Ethiopians are people who do not surrender to defeat, and challenges make us stronger," she stressed. According to her, the athletes should be honored for their contribution in making the country's flag fly high in the world championships. Ethiopian Athletics Federation President, Commander Derartu Tulu said she was happy with the reception given to the athletes, stating that "the most precious gift is morale and respect we are given by the people." The Thanksgiving program was held under the theme: "We thank you for raising our flag in the world arena.” Culture and Sports Minister Kejela Merdasa, former famous athletes and various government officials attended the ceremony.
Victory at World Athletics Championship Enhances Ethiopia’s Journey to Dev’t: Team Leader
Jul 28, 2022 589
Addis Ababa July 28/2022/ENA/ The results registered at the World Athletics Championship have filled the hearts of Ethiopians with joy and help to sustain Ethiopia's march towards development, Ethiopian Athletics Team Leader at the 18th World Athletics Championships said. President Sahle-Work Zewde welcomed members of the Ethiopian Athletic Team at the National Palace today. During the occasion, the team leader Tefera Molla said he is proud and happy about the victory achieved by the Ethiopian athletes. He also lauded Ethiopians for standing with the athletics team. Tefera recalled the repeated victories achieved by former Ethiopian athletes such as Abebe Bikila, Mamo Wolde, Miruts Yifter, Haile Gebre Sellasie, and Derartu Tulu, among others. The team leader stated that the results obtained in the Oregon World Athletics Championship will enable the country to continue the journey to prosperity. According to him, the victory was achieved due to the rigorous preparations, including the performance and evaluation done on a daily basis, as well as the strict discipline in recruitment. Ethiopia ranked second in the world after United States of America and first in Africa, Tefera noted, adding that the result recorded in the athletics arena proved that there is no force that can stop Ethiopia's journey towards prosperity.
Environment
Ethiopian Airlines to Start Direct Flight to Karachi as of May
Mar 10, 2023 323
Addis Ababa (ENA) March 10/2023 Ethiopian Airlines, the largest network operating carrier in Africa, has finalized preparations to launch direct flights to Karachi, Pakistan as of 01 May 2023. According to a press release of the Airlines issued on Thursday, the upcoming flight will be operated four times a week. Commenting on the resumption of services to Karachi, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mesfin Tasew said, “we are excited to return to Karachi nearly two decades after we last served the city. As the most populous city in Pakistan, Karachi will be a crucial gateway to Pakistan and the wider South Asia region. He added that as the only flight connecting Pakistan with Africa, the planned service to Karachi will have significant contribution in strengthening the diplomatic and economic relations between the two regions. It will also offer convenient air connectivity to the growing number of Pakistani investors in Africa as well as tourists, the CEO said. Karachi will be the 37th destination of Ethiopian Airlines in Asia. Currently, Ethiopian is serving more than 145 domestic and international passenger and cargo destinations. Ethiopian Airlines (Ethiopian) is the fastest growing Airline in Africa. In its seventy-six plus years of operation, Ethiopian has become one of the continent’s leading carriers, unrivalled in efficiency and operational success.
Ethiopia Doing Well in Planting Trees, Minimizing Desertification: AU Commissioner Sacko
Feb 17, 2023 598
Addis Ababa February 17/2013 /ENA/ Ethiopia is doing well in environmental protection and minimizing desertification through its Green Legacy of planting billions of trees, AU Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment Commissioner Ambassador Josefa Leonel Sacko said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Commissioner Sacko commended Ethiopia’s Green Legacy initiated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. “I commend the government of Ethiopia that is doing so well in planting trees because it is very important. By planting trees we can minimize the desertification and we can also stimulate the rain and mitigate the effect of drought on the continent,” she applauded. Rooted in a vision of building a green and climate-resilient Ethiopia, the Green Legacy Initiative was launched in June 2019. A target of planting 20 billion seedlings within a period of four years was set. By the fourth year, Ethiopia has succeeded in planting 25 billion seedlings by mobilizing more than 20 million citizens throughout the nation. The Green Legacy Initiative is a demonstration of Ethiopia’s long-term commitment to a multifaceted response to the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation that encompasses agroforestry, forest sector development, greening and renewal of urban areas, and integrated water and soil resources management. AU Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment Commissioner urged African countries to follow suit and align their programs with African Union Commission as well. Speaking of Ethiopia’s wheat exporting with regard to food security, the Commissioner said that African countries should notice the essentiality of agriculture to secure food efficiency. “I commend Ethiopia for cultivating wheat and we know that there is a very good lesson for the countries and should follow the example of Ethiopia that have the ecological advantage to grow wheat in their countries,” Commissioner Sacko noted. Ethiopia is set to export 1.2 million quintals of wheat bumper harvest during this year, the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration announced last week.
Ethiopia Doing Well in Planting Trees, Minimizing Desertification: AU Commissioner Sacko
Feb 16, 2023 605
Addis Ababa (ENA) February 16/2023 Ethiopia is doing well in environmental protection and minimizing desertification through its Green Legacy of planting billions of trees, AU Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment Commissioner Ambassador Josefa Leonel Sacko said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Commissioner Sacko commended Ethiopia’s Green Legacy initiated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. “I commend the government of Ethiopia that is doing so well in planting trees because it is very important. By planting trees we can minimize the desertification and we can also stimulate the rain and mitigate the effect of drought on the continent,” she applauded. Rooted in a vision of building a green and climate-resilient Ethiopia, the Green Legacy Initiative was launched in June 2019. A target of planting 20 billion seedlings within a period of four years was set. By the fourth year, Ethiopia has succeeded in planting 25 billion seedlings by mobilizing more than 20 million citizens throughout the nation. The Green Legacy Initiative is a demonstration of Ethiopia’s long-term commitment to a multifaceted response to the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation that encompasses agroforestry, forest sector development, greening and renewal of urban areas, and integrated water and soil resources management. AU Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment Commissioner urged African countries to follow suit and align their programs with African Union Commission as well. Speaking of Ethiopia’s wheat exporting with regard to food security, the Commissioner said that African countries should notice the essentiality of agriculture to secure food efficiency. “I commend Ethiopia for cultivating wheat and we know that there is a very good lesson for the countries and should follow the example of Ethiopia that have the ecological advantage to grow wheat in their countries,” Commissioner Sacko noted. Ethiopia is set to export 1.2 million quintals of wheat bumper harvest during this year, the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration announced last week.
World Meteorological Organization to Enhance Digital Transformation of Hydrometeorological Services in Africa
Feb 13, 2023 588
Addis Ababa /ENA/ February 13/2023 The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in collaboration with the Ethiopian Meteorological Institute (EMI) is holding its regional conference to enhance digital transformation of the hydrometeorological services in Africa. The use of modern digital technology has unexploited potential to offer through the value chain of climate services including in fields such as data collection, dissemination and personalization of services. Addressing the occasion, State Minister of Water and Energy Abraha Adugna said the information from meteorology and climate is basic parameters to achieve the nation’s ambitions in various fronts. Stating that lots of experiences will be shared among countries in the conference; he said “As Ethiopians, we will use those experiences for the next development plans.” “We are running a climate resilient green economy. That is one of the areas that we need information from climate and meteorology.” “For this and other purposes we need information from climate and meteorology. So the workshop will give the opportunity to get the good experiences from African countries as well as from other countries around the world.” WMO assistant Secretary General Wenjian Zhang said for his part African region permanent representatives meet together which they can address the challenges, and opportunities from their country’s perspective. For the assistant Secretary General, he expects the conference to promote further the partnership with regional key partners. The main objective of the conference is to strengthen observation network. Observation network is used to enhance and deliver meteorological and hydrological services, the Director General of Ethiopian Meteorological Institute Fetene Teshome said. He further stressed that the discussion mainly focuses on how can we strengthen the service delivery system in Africa. The 5 days conference will draw a strategic plan to enhance the capacities of hydrometeorological services in Africa and partnerships on infrastructural strength of national meteorological and hydrological services. Accordingly, the conference with the participation of global and regional experts and decision makers from Africa will discuss partnerships in enhancing communication in service delivery, capacity development, research and innovation and early warning in Africa. It is to be recalled that United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres had unveiled its early warnings for all: Executive action plan 2023–2027 that calls for a targeted investment of 3.1 billion USD at a high-level COP27 meeting in Egypt last November. It will cost the equivalent of just 50 cents per person per year for the next five years to reach everyone on Earth with early warnings against increasingly extreme and dangerous weather, World Meteorological Organization stated.
Feature Article
Exclusive Interview with Ambassador Zhao Zhiyuan
Mar 23, 2023 216
Ethiopian News Agency (ENA) conducted exclusive interview with H.E. Zhao Zhiyuan, Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia, and discussed a wide range of bilateral and regional issues as well as issues of common concerns; the following are excerpts from the interview. Question: First, we would like to thank you for your willingness to have an interview with ENA, just to kick off, recently, an Ethiopian high-level delegation paid an official visit to China; how do you look at its importance in refreshing the bilateral relationship between these two countries? Amb Zhao Zhiyuan: We are very pleased to see the successful visit to China of the delegation led by H.E. Ahmed Shide, which has further advanced bilateral economic and trade relations. During the visit, the 10th Session of Economic, Scientific, technical Cooperation and Trade Joint Commission was held with the Ministry of Commerce. This is the first meeting of this kind between China and an African country in 2023, which fully reflects the good wishes of the two governments to deepen cooperation and common development. H.E. Ahmed Shide’s visit to China and the convening of the joint commission have injected new impetus to the relationship between the two countries, contributing to the building of China-Africa community with a shared future in the new era. During the visit, China and Ethiopia have achieved fruitful economic and trade cooperation results: (1)Bilateral field. China and Ethiopia had discussions on expanding cooperation in sectors such as trade, investment, development assistance, infrastructure construction, and debt treatment, and reached a series of consensus. The two sides signed a memorandum of understanding on the establishment of an investment and economic cooperation working group, which is of great significance for strengthening the construction of bilateral economic cooperation mechanisms and increasing policy support for economic and trade cooperation. (2)Attracting investment. The two sides conducted in-depth discussions on boosting Chinese investment in Ethiopia. Ethiopia has a vast market and huge development potential. Investment in key areas has always been an important part of the economic and trade cooperation between the two countries. The Chinese side stated that it will continue to encourage and support domestic enterprises to participate in investment in Ethiopia’s agriculture, tourism, medicine, energy, mining, telecommunications and other fields. During the Minister of Finance’s visit to China this time, an investment promotion meeting was held by the Ethiopian Embassy to actively promote investment opportunities in Ethiopia and hold discussions with Chinese-funded enterprises, which achieved good results. (3)Promoting trade. In recent years, the trade volume between China and Ethiopia has continued to increase, and the channels for Ethiopia to export coffee and other specialty products to China have been continuously smoothed, which has become a new highlight of China-Ethiopia economic and trade cooperation. During the meeting with H.E. Ahmed Shide, the Chinese side warmly welcomed the Ethiopian side to continue to actively participate in exhibition platforms such as the China International Import Expo, the Import and Export Fair, and the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo, and at the same time make full use of the tariff-free treatment for 98 percent of products exported to China. China will work with Ethiopia to continuously optimize the trade structure between the two countries, and to develop measures to further facilitate the export of Ethiopian products to China. Question: Ethiopia and China have enjoyed good bilateral economic relations over the past decades. In light of this, what are you doing on your capacity and the embassy at large to diversify and further strengthen these partnerships in the years to come? Amb Zhao Zhiyuan: The Chinese Embassy in Ethiopia has been taking practical actions to attract more Chinese companies to invest in Ethiopia and help Ethiopia’s manufacturing industry take off. In the past six months, I have traveled to almost all the states and major cities in Ethiopia, focusing on the main local industrial parks and manufacturing enterprises to get a comprehensive understanding of the development of Ethiopia’s industry, and thinking about the paths and methods for Chinese enterprises to participate in developing Ethiopia’s manufacturing industry. The Chinese Embassy has also been advocating the advantages and potential of the Ethiopian market to Chinese companies, sharing market information in a timely manner, and actively coordinating relevant parties to help Chinese investors establish contact with the competent authorities in Ethiopia. We are also actively working with the Ethiopian side to jointly improve the business environment by holding business environment workshops to solve the difficulties encountered by enterprises in Ethiopia and attract more enterprises to invest in this country. The Chinese Embassy will continue to spare no effort to strengthen cooperation in the manufacturing industry between China and Ethiopia, and explore deeper cooperation in areas such as the construction of special economic zones. Question; China is making great strides in applying science and technology in multiple sectors as an important drive to its development; hence, what are some of the activities being carried out to facilitate sharing experience and knowledge transfer? Amb Zhao Zhiyuan: We are very pleased to see that Ethiopia has placed scientific and technological development in an important position in its national strategy in recent years, and we are also supporting Ethiopia’s scientific and technological development in our own way. The first is to strengthen cooperation in knowledge and skills. In 2022, the Ministry of Commerce of China enrolled 380 Ethiopian students in degree programs, and provided high-quality short-term capacity building programs for more than 2,000 students from various departments in Ethiopia, offering valuable opportunities for Ethiopian government officials and experts to learn advanced science and technology in China. In the future, we will also strengthen communication with relevant domestic and Ethiopian departments, optimize the capacity building programs to promote more effective transfer of advanced technology to Ethiopia. The second is to encourage high-tech enterprises to deeply engage in the Ethiopian market. Our enterprises in telecommunications, medicine, agriculture and other fields have gone into production and operation in Ethiopia for many years, which has not only promoted the economic development of Ethiopia, but also introduced advanced technology to the country. Next, we will also encourage more high-tech industries to invest in Ethiopia, so as to drive the development of science and technology through industrial development. The third is to focus on cultivating local high-tech enterprises in Ethiopia. Ethiopian enterprises are good at innovation, and many excellent start-ups have emerged. As long as we continue to pay attention and create an environment, I believe that the overall technological development has a promising future. Question: The conflict in the northern parts of Ethiopia has ended with a peace agreement. However, reconstructing these war-torn regions demand a huge amount of resources. In this respect, what is China doing to support the Ethiopian government in its effort to rehabilitate the regions? We welcome and appreciate the peace agreement reached by relevant parties under the auspices of the African Union. We hope that the peace agreement will be implemented smoothly and Ethiopia will restore prosperity and stability as soon as possible, and at the same time focus on economic and social construction. Ethiopia is the “anchor of stability” in the Horn of Africa. We believe that peace and stability in Ethiopia is also of great significance to the long-term stability of the region. China is willing to actively participate in Ethiopia’s post-war reconstruction and provide support to Ethiopia in the fields of humanitarian aid, health and education. At the same time, when the time is mature, we will actively promote investment and trade cooperation to help Ethiopia realize rapid economic and social development, and improve the living standards of the Ethiopian people. At present, I am closely following the situation in the north to make preparations for China’s participation in the reconstruction progress. Question: China recently released the concept paper for its Global Security Initiative; as a result, how will you collaborate with Ethiopia to maintain peace and security throughout the region of Horn of Africa? Amb Zhao Zhiyuan: Chinese president Xi Jinping proposed the Global Security Initiative (GSI) in 2022, which has received extensive endorsement. To maintain the peace and security in the Horn of Africa as a whole, China is ready to conduct cooperation to actively implement the Outlook on Peace and Development in the Horn of Africa on the basis of the GSI. Since China put forward the outlook, Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Affairs of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has visited countries in the region for many times. China supported Ethiopia in the First China-Horn of Africa Peace, Good Governance and Development Conference, which was a resounding success, making great contributions to the peace and development of the region. Together with Ethiopia and other countries in the region, China will continue intra-regional dialogues, accelerate the revitalization of the region and support our African friends in an African solution to African problems. Based on respect for countries in the region, China will play a constructive role in properly handling hotspot issues and actively contribute China's solution and strength to the peace and security in the Horn of Africa.
Scaling up Ethio-US Relations for Mutual Benefits
Mar 15, 2023 260
BY SOLOMON DIBABA Ethiopia and the United States have enjoyed warm government-to-government and people-to-people relations for well over a century. The ties have transcended the passage of time and the changes of governments and political systems in both countries. Formal Ethio-US relations date back to December 1903 following nine days of meetings in Ethiopia between the government of Ethiopia and Robert P. Skinner, an emissary of President Theodore Roosevelt. Ethiopia appreciated America’s commercial interest in Ethiopia, and that the United States did not possess colonial designs similar to those that were designed by colonial forces. Then, the talks which Ethiopia and the United States had held yielded a joint document known as the Treaty of Amity and Commerce. This agreement accorded Ethiopia Most Favored Nation status and eventually led to full diplomatic relations between the two countries. Over the past several decades, Ethiopia has remained a partner with the US in a battle against terrorism. It is to be recalled the US government and US based international NGOs have rendered immense contribution to roll back the 1984-85 food shortage crisis and recurrent drought that plagued the country. Given its geopolitical locations, Ethiopia has been a strong ally for the United States for many decades. Apart from government to government relations, people to people relations between the two countries have remained strong. Suffice to mention, the number of Ethiopian diaspora residing in the United States. Further, the two countries have enjoyed multiple development and economic cooperation for many decades.For instance, the Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines have demonstrated strong partnerships. Regarding development cooperation, since 1961, the USAID has continued to support various development programs including promotion of education, agricultural development programs including the US Peace Corp program for promoting cultural relations and expansion of modern education. The US provided support to Ethiopia in establishing Haramaya former Agricultural College and a number of agricultural colleges in Jimma, Bako and the College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture (then Debre Zeit Veterinary Science College) and a number of teachers training institutions across the country. Between 1953-1976, in line with the Mutual Defense Agreement Assistance, the US provided Ethiopia with defense armaments and trained military officers for the Ethiopian army and air force. Ethiopia shares a common interest with the US in ascertaining peace and stability in the Horn of Africa. The reform program that has been conducted in the country has been instrumental in further fostering the operational relations between the two countries in promoting democracy and good governance. Regular visits paid to Ethiopia by US officials including today’s visit by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken have enormous implications in forging relations between the two countries, in the areas of economic cooperation, security and upscaling a united action against terrorism in the Horn of Africa. Climate change induced drought has repeatedly become a major bottleneck for the economic development of countries in the Horn of Africa including Ethiopia. A number of countries of the Horn are still grappling with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, the US can provide technological and economic development support in partnership with these countries. Ethiopia and the US need to engage in the areas of peace building in the Horn and the rest of Africa. The mutual support and partnership based economic relations between Ethiopia and the US need to be promoted for mutual benefits of both countries. Roughly speaking, more than 3 million Ethiopians and foreign nationals of Ethiopian origin constitute the diaspora population across the world and most of whom reside and work in the US, becoming a major force to further strengthen the relationship between Ethiopia and the US. Both Ethiopia and the US need to develop and exploit the positive influence that the Ethiopian diaspora could play in fostering the relationship between the two countries. Ethiopia is now hosting close to one million refugees from the neighboring countries and is providing protection in line with guiding principles and statutes of the UNHCR. On the other hand, the Ethiopian Government is actively working in rehabilitating hundreds of IDPs that were affected by the conflicts in various parts of the country. As a longstanding partner with Ethiopia, the US can support such efforts as it will help to promote sustained peace and stability in the country. Ethiopia unswervingly stands for peace and stability in the Horn of Africa and the US can effectively partner with the Government of Ethiopia in building sustained peace and stability to promote mutually beneficial interest of the two countries. The people to people relations between the two countries can be enhanced through public diplomacy between the peoples of both countries to further promote cross cultural exchanges that have developed between the two nations for over a century. The ongoing visit by the US Secretary of State to Ethiopia is therefore expected to enhance the relations between the two friendly countries based on mutual understanding, respect and cordial relations.