Addis Ababa, March 15, 2026 (ENA) — The Ethiopian Civil Society Organizations Council (ECSOC) has called for broad and inclusive voter education initiatives, emphasizing the need to amplify public voices and ensure meaningful participation in Ethiopia’s electoral processes and national reconciliation efforts. ECSOC Executive Director Terefe Degeti emphasized that the council is ready to work with civil society organizations to promote fair participation and inclusive engagement through coordinated voter education campaigns. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Terefe explained that member organizations have already contributed recommendations aimed at improving the operational framework for civil society institutions. “As a council, almost all of our members have previously provided their calls for action and guidance in our operations. We recognize that our contributions play a crucial role in making the prepared directives more conducive for Civil Society Organizations,” he said. According to him, the initiative has brought together a strong alliance of more than 170 civil society organizations working to enhance civic engagement, regulate public participation, and create a supportive environment ahead of national elections. “Our unified message is clear, regardless of whether a CSO is registered or if it has specific public activities aimed at fostering a free and democratic election, we urge all organizations to strive towards this common goal both individually and collectively,” Terefe said. He added that active involvement of civil society organizations is essential to ensuring that elections genuinely reflect the will of the Ethiopian people. “The involvement of every CSO is vital in creating a fair electoral process that truly reflects the will of the people,” he stated. Beyond electoral engagement, ECSOC is also encouraging civil society organizations to contribute to broader national priorities, including peace-building, democratic development, and the country’s ongoing National Dialogue process. “We are pushing and encouraging civil society organizations to play their part in promoting peace, facilitating elections, fostering democracy, and addressing all national issues, including the successful execution of the National Dialogue,” the director stressed. He noted that civil society groups operate independently from political parties and focus on public benefit, including empowering children, youth, women, and persons with disabilities to help build a more stable and inclusive future. He further highlighted the significance of the National Dialogue as a pathway to resolving long standing challenges and strengthening unity. “By actively empowering these organizations to work toward peace, democracy, and freedom, we recognize the importance of the National Dialogue as a pathway to resolving conflicts in Ethiopia,” he said. “This dialogue serves as an essential platform for addressing grievances and fostering understanding among diverse groups.” Calling for greater engagement, he urged civil society organizations to represent their communities actively throughout the dialogue process. “Therefore, we earnestly call upon CSOs to engage actively in this process by representing their respective communities,” he said. “Through mobilizing the public, they can encourage collective efforts to tackle our shared challenges, advocating for solutions that arise from meaningful consultation and open dialogue. This collaborative spirit is vital for fostering a more inclusive and resilient society.” The ECSOC leader noted that the growing alliance among civil society organizations demonstrates the sector’s expanding role in supporting democratic participation, peace-building, and national unity in Ethiopia.

Addis Ababa, March 16, 2026 (ENA)— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held a phone conversation with President Vladimir Putin of Russia today. “(We) held productive call with President Vladimir Putin today on bilateral as well as other issues of mutual interest,” the Premier shared on his social media channels. The two leaders discussed current issues of bilateral cooperation in the political, trade, economic and humanitarian spheres, in line with the agreements reached following PM Abiy’s visit to Moscow in September 2025. They reaffirmed a mutual commitment to further strengthening friendly Russian-Ethiopian relations and agreed to intensify contacts between the relevant ministries and agencies, it was learned. Earlier in the day, President Putin conveyed his condolences to Ethiopia’s leadership following a deadly natural disaster in the country’s south. In a message shared by the Russian Embassy in Ethiopia, the Russian leader expressed deep sorrow over the tragic consequences of landslides and floods. “Please accept my deepest condolences in connection with the tragic consequences of landslides and floods in the south of your country,” Putin said in a message addressed to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Ethiopian President Taye Atske Selassie. He also expressed solidarity with the victims’ families, stating: “Please convey words of sincere sympathy and support to the families of the victims, as well as wishes for a swift recovery to all those injured by the violence of these natural disasters.” The disaster followed several days of heavy rainfall that triggered destructive floods and landslides across parts of the Gamo Zone in the South Ethiopia Region, resulting in fatalities and damage to property and infrastructure.

Addis Ababa, March 16, 2026 (ENA)— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has called on fuel distributors, stations and consumers to use petroleum products responsibly as disruptions linked to the crisis in the Middle East affect global oil supply. In a message shared on social media, the Prime Minister said countries that depend on imported oil are facing difficulties securing adequate supplies due to the ongoing tensions in the region. He urged all stakeholders to use fuel carefully until the situation stabilizes and normal supply conditions return. “Due to the crisis in the Middle East, countries that buy and use oil have had difficulty finding supply. Until the problem is resolved and we return to a normal oil supply system, we must use oil economically and prioritize basic needs,” PM Abiy said. The Premier also called on fuel distributors and service stations to act responsibly while ensuring that available supplies are directed toward essential services and priority needs. He further reminded consumers to avoid unnecessary consumption and to use fuel prudently during the current period of uncertainty in the global oil market.

Development Drive, Strategic Partnerships and A Landslide Wake-Up Call Addis Ababa, March 15, 2026 (ENA)—This week in Ethiopia captured the country’s complex moment of transformation: ambitious development projects, expanding diplomatic partnerships and an urgent humanitarian response to a natural disaster. Major mining investments worth billions of dollars, new urban modernization projects and expanding regional diplomacy reflected the government’s continuing push toward economic transformation and institutional strengthening. At the same time, a deadly landslide in southern Ethiopia served as a stark reminder of the environmental vulnerabilities facing rural communities. Together, these developments illustrated the realities of a country pursuing rapid modernization while confronting climate pressures and longstanding social challenges. Even as Ethiopia continues large-scale environmental initiatives such as the Green Legacy campaign, climate-related risks remain an urgent concern. Urban Modernization and Digital Governance   Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed began the week with an inspection tour of eastern Ethiopia, visiting the historic cities of Dire Dawa and Harar to review ongoing urban development and public service modernization projects. In Dire Dawa, the Prime Minister evaluated the progress of the city’s corridor development program — an ambitious urban renewal initiative designed to improve public spaces, mobility and commercial activity. The project features pedestrian walkways, recreational areas, retail zones and electric vehicle charging stations aimed at enhancing both urban livability and economic vitality. The premier also visited an urban farming initiative promoting local food production within the city. The project demonstrates how small-scale agriculture can strengthen urban food security while creating employment opportunities for residents. Another key stop was the newly established MESOB One Stop Public Service Center, a facility that integrates services from multiple government institutions under one roof, simplifying administrative procedures for citizens.   While observing the projects, the prime minister emphasized the broader objective behind the initiative. “We are working to ensure that our cities become engines of productivity and centers of opportunity for citizens,” he said. “Urban development must improve quality of life while strengthening economic competitiveness.” The corridor development program focuses on expanding road networks, improving drainage systems, organizing commercial zones and creating green public spaces designed to make Ethiopian cities more functional and environmentally sustainable. In Harar, the prime minister inspected a similar integrated service center designed to streamline government service delivery. The visit also included tours of natural and cultural landmarks such as Nasiol Cave and the iconic Kundudo Mountain. Urban transformation remains central to Ethiopia’s development agenda through the nationwide Corridor Development Initiative, which is upgrading infrastructure across major cities and key transport routes to improve mobility, strengthen trade connectivity and raise urban living standards.   Harar’s modernization program is particularly distinctive because it seeks to balance infrastructure improvements with the preservation of historical identity. The city’s famous walled historic district, Harar Jugol, is undergoing improvements in sanitation, transport and tourism infrastructure while maintaining its unique architectural heritage. Another milestone was the inauguration of the Mesob One Stop Service Center, part of Ethiopia’s broader digital transformation strategy under the national Digital Ethiopia initiative. Digital public services are increasingly reshaping the relationship between citizens and government institutions by reducing administrative delays and improving transparency. Urban modernization is also reaching the community level. Authorities in Harar presented the Burqa Kebele model village, a development initiative designed to demonstrate how improved housing and infrastructure can raise living standards while preserving cultural traditions. The project includes upgraded homes, improved sanitation facilities, paved roads and expanded access to health and education services. Diplomacy and Strategic Partnerships Diplomatic engagement also played a prominent role this week. In Djibouti City, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed joined Djiboutian President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud for a tripartite consultation focused on regional cooperation and security across the Horn of Africa.   The leaders discussed political developments in the region, economic integration among neighboring countries and collective approaches to shared security challenges. They also exchanged views on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and its potential implications for trade and regional stability. Later in the week, the prime minister traveled to the United Arab Emirates for a working visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and economic cooperation. During the visit, he held talks with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on expanding collaboration in investment, trade, education and regional stability. “Brotherhood undeterred, a partnership rooted in trust,” the prime minister said, describing the relationship between the two countries.   He added that cooperation with the UAE continues to expand across investment, trade and development initiatives that support Ethiopia’s ambition to build a competitive and dynamic economy. In recent years, the UAE has emerged as one of Ethiopia’s most significant economic partners, investing in sectors such as renewable energy, logistics infrastructure and agriculture. Major Mining Investments The week also saw the signing of major mining investment agreements worth approximately 4.2 billion USD. The deals involve investors including Ethiopian Investment Holdings and private sector partners such as ZYTB DIM Metals and Minerals and Bero Mining. The projects aim to develop significant deposits of iron ore, potash and gold across several regions of the country. Officials say these investments could strengthen Ethiopia’s industrial sector by supplying raw materials for domestic manufacturing while boosting export revenues.   Minister of Mines Habtamu Tegegne emphasized the importance of responsible mineral development. “Our mineral resources have the potential to support industrialization, generate export revenue and create employment opportunities,” he said. Economic analysts note that expanded mining activity could also help address Ethiopia’s persistent foreign currency shortages by increasing export earnings. A Tragic Landslide in Southern Ethiopia Despite these economic and diplomatic advances, the week was overshadowed by a devastating landslide in the Gamo Zone of southern Ethiopia that claimed lives and destroyed homes. Upon returning from the UAE, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed traveled to Arba Minch to assess the situation and meet affected families. The disaster was triggered by heavy seasonal rains that caused flooding and landslides in several communities. Expressing his condolences, the prime minister said: “I express my deep sorrow over the loss of the lives of our citizens.”   He pledged that the government would provide assistance to affected communities while pursuing long-term preventive measures. The House of Peoples' Representatives of Ethiopia declared a period of national mourning following the tragedy, while emergency teams were deployed to deliver humanitarian assistance. Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh said government institutions were coordinating relief operations to support survivors and rebuild damaged infrastructure. The disaster highlights growing climate-related risks in Ethiopia’s highland regions. Increasing rainfall variability, land degradation and deforestation have heightened the risk of landslides and flooding in vulnerable areas. Authorities say stronger early warning systems, expanded reforestation and improved land management will be critical to reducing future disaster risks. Cultural Celebration and Social Cohesion Amid economic initiatives, cultural celebration also reminded Ethiopians of the importance of social unity. The Sidama people celebrated the annual Fichee Chambalaalla festival in the city of Hawassa.   Recognized by UNESCO as an element of intangible cultural heritage, the festival symbolizes renewal, reconciliation and communal solidarity. Thousands gathered for traditional ceremonies, music and cultural performances marking the Sidama New Year. The celebration reflects the enduring values of unity, forgiveness and community harmony that continue to shape Ethiopia’s diverse cultural landscape. The Week in Perspective Taken together, this week’s developments highlight three key priorities shaping Ethiopia’s current trajectory. First, domestic transformation, driven by urban modernization, digital governance and expanding economic investment. Second, active diplomacy, aimed at strengthening regional stability and deepening international partnerships. Third, humanitarian engagement, responding to natural disasters affecting vulnerable communities. These parallel dynamics reveal the multiple dimensions of Ethiopia’s ongoing transformation. Investments in mining, urban infrastructure and digital services reflect an ambitious effort to accelerate economic growth and strengthen institutional capacity.

Addis Ababa, March 15, 2026 (ENA)—The European Delegation to Ethiopia emphasized the strength of its long-standing partnership with the country, marking 50 years of cooperation in 2025. Approached by ENA, Anna Lixi, Head of the Governance and Peace Team, highlighted the breadth of collaboration, spanning government institutions and civil society organizations (CSOs). “Our partnership with Ethiopia is built on decades of shared commitment,” Lixi said. According to the head European Union is working with various democratic situations and supporting efforts in Ethiopia.   “We work closely with government authorities such as the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission, the Ministry of Justice, and the Federal Supreme Court, supporting initiatives in criminal justice reform. We also collaborate with the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) to strengthen electoral processes ahead of the 7th general election in 2026,” she noted. Ethiopia is pursuing broad political and institutional reforms aimed at deepening democratic governance, strengthening the rule of law, and promoting inclusive public participation. These reforms include revising legal frameworks, empowering civil society organizations, and enhancing state institutions’ capacity to deliver services and uphold fundamental rights — all part of a longer-term democratic transition and social cohesion strategy following recent political challenges.   As a key partner to Ethiopia, the European Union has supported these reforms. Lixi noted that the Delegation actively backs government-led initiatives, particularly those of the National Dialogue Commission, ensuring they are transparent and inclusive. “We finance projects and programs that advance national dialogue and good governance. Our goal is to accompany, contribute to, and support the Ethiopian government’s efforts toward democratic strengthening,” she added. Between 2023 and 2026, EU interventions have intensified in criminal justice reform, while technical and resource support to NEBE is helping ensure that the upcoming 2026 general election meets international standards. Parallel to the electoral process, the EU funds the National Dialogue Commission — an initiative considered vital for long-term national stability and reconciliation. This enduring partnership, spanning over five decades of diplomatic and cooperative ties, has evolved into a comprehensive strategic relationship, underscoring Europe’s commitment to good governance, democratic reforms, and inclusive civic participation in Ethiopia, Lixi emphasized.

Addis Ababa, March 14, 2026 (ENA)—Officials of media institutions the Ethiopian News Agency talked to said they are creating a broad platform for political parties competing in 7th General Election to present their alternative policies and programs for the public. The media serve as main pillars for building a democratic system by raising the political awareness of citizens and creating a convenient platform to freely express their ideas. In particular, they play a significant role in educating the public during elections by providing equal coverage of debates and reports to competing political parties so that the public can make informed decisions. Officials of the media institutions told ENA that the media have a huge responsibility for a free, fair and democratic electoral system in a country. News Division Deputy CEO at the Ethiopian News Agency, Tefera Bekele, said the media are tools for building a democratic system that plays a constructive role in the success of election.   The Ethiopian News Agency has therefore established an election desk working on a plan focused on pre-election, election, and post-election to effectively cover the 7th General Election. Accordingly, the news agency has been disseminating election reports on news and news-related issues via local and international languages with quality and speed, he noted. Scheduled for June 1, 2026, the seventh general election comes at a time when public expectations for credible democratic practices are higher than ever. With electoral institutions gaining greater independence and operational capacity, the vote is expected to serve as an important indicator of Ethiopia’s democratic maturity and the resilience of its governance structures. The government has repeatedly reaffirmed its commitment to creating a conducive environment for conducting free, fair, and credible elections. In this context, media outlets have been playing a leading role by providing platforms where political parties can engage in debates and present their manifestos to voters as the electoral campaign gains momentum. Election Desk Chair at the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation (EBC), Bekri Nasir, said for his part that the corporation is working based on the experience of the 6th election and preparing a debate forum alongside reporting on the election.   He further stated that EBC is creating a platform to enhance the culture of dialogue using different languages to strengthen the multi-party system based on idea superiority among political parties. Similarly, Fana Media Corporation Deputy CEO, Dawit Mesfin, said the platforms created by the corporation for competing political parties play a pivotal role in helping citizens understand alternative policies. According to the Deputy CEO, a platform is created where competing political parties can freely present their policy options to the public by creating a fair distribution of airtime. This creates the opportunity for citizens to vote for the political party they prefer in the 7th General Election. Dawit further noted that a favorable media environment that will allow Ethiopians to build a political culture based on the supremacy of ideas is being created.   The policy alternative debate platforms created by the media are changing the previous pattern of blaming by creating a promising democratic environment. Finally, the officials of the media stressed their commitment to continue playing constructive role in fostering political competition based on superiority of ideas.

Addis Ababa, March 14, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed returned to Ethiopia on Saturday after concluding a strategic working visit to the United Arab Emirates aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation between the two nations. During the visit, the Prime Minister held talks with Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, where discussions focused on deepening the longstanding partnership between the two countries, enhancing economic collaboration, and promoting regional stability.   “I appreciate the warm reception and our shared commitment to deepening the friendship between our two nations,” the Prime Minister said. In a message shared on X (Twitter), the Premier described the Ethiopia–UAE relationship as one built on trust and brotherhood, writing: “Brotherhood undeterred, a partnership rooted in trust.” The visit highlights the growing strategic relationship between Ethiopia and the UAE across economic, diplomatic, and regional cooperation.   During his stay, the Prime Minister also met with Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Their discussion underscored the strong ties between the peoples of both countries, particularly in business, education, and cultural exchange.   The Prime Minister expressed his eagerness to visit Dubai again in the future.

Addis Ababa, March 13, 2026 (ENA)—More than nine million citizens have registered to vote within the first week of voter registration for Ethiopia’s 7th General Election, according to the National Election Board of Ethiopia. Speaking to the media, the board’s chairperson, Melatework Hailu, said the registration process has been progressing steadily across the country since it officially began on March 7, 2026. The nationwide voter registration marks a key milestone in Ethiopia’s electoral calendar ahead of the upcoming general election. The registration process is expected to continue for one month and is being conducted using both digital and manual systems. According to the board, a total of 47 political parties have registered 10,934 candidates to compete in the election. Of these, 2,198 candidates will contest seats in the House of People's Representatives, while 8,736 candidates are running for positions in various regional councils. In addition, 73 independent candidates have registered to participate in the race, including 69 men and four women. Melatework noted that voter registration is currently being carried out at 46,750 polling stations across the country. She added that the distribution of election materials has largely been completed to ensure the smooth conduct of the registration process. The chairperson also said that the next stage of the electoral process will include a lottery to determine the ballot positions of candidates. Meanwhile, the National Election Board of Ethiopia has released the first 30 percent of the budget allocated to political parties participating in the election. The funds have already been transferred to 36 registered parties. As Ethiopia prepares for its seventh general election, the country stands at an important political moment reflecting the ongoing evolution of its democratic process.