By Staff Writer   November 8, 2026 (ENA) From becoming Africa’s fifth-largest economy following GDP rebasing to hosting landmark continental and global gatherings, Ethiopia’s economic transformation, diplomatic influence and strategic development ambitions dominated the first week of November 2026. The first week of November 2026 placed Ethiopia firmly in the continental and international spotlight, as the country emerged with a significantly larger measured economy, hosted major African political and global health gatherings, and renewed discussions about its strategic development priorities. Ethiopia's economy was officially rebased to reach 210.7 billion USD for the 2025/26 fiscal year, positioning the country as Africa's fifth-largest economy, alongside South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria and Algeria. Beyond its economic standing, Addis Ababa reinforced its reputation as a continental diplomatic and conference hub by hosting the Second African Political Parties Summit (APPS 2026), the Seventh World Health Organization Emergency Medical Teams (EMT) Global Meeting and the 36th African Hydro Symposium. Meanwhile, Ethiopia's development ambitions surrounding the Abay (Blue Nile) River and the Red Sea corridor remained prominent in national and international discourse, underscoring the country's determination to translate its economic and geographical potential into long-term development. Ethiopia's Economic Standing Rises Following GDP Rebasing   One of the week's most significant developments was Ethiopia's unveiling of its rebased Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which increased the country's measured economic output by 59.2 percent. The revision, which incorporates updated methodologies and more comprehensive data sources, including state-owned enterprises, non-profit institutions and emerging sectors such as digital finance, provides a more comprehensive picture of the country's evolving economic structure. With its economy now valued at 210.7 billion USD, Ethiopia has moved into Africa's fifth-largest economy position, strengthening its profile among the continent's leading economic powers. Speaking at the official launch of the GDP rebasing results, Finance Minister Fitsum Assefa said the revised national accounting framework would improve economic planning, fiscal and monetary policymaking, and domestic revenue mobilization. She emphasized that more accurate economic measurements would enable the government to better assess the size, structure and performance of the economy while strengthening the foundation for evidence-based development policies. Under the revised framework, with 2017 Ethiopian fiscal year (2024/25) as the new base year, Ethiopia's GDP reached 24.03 trillion Birr, equivalent to 201.42 billion USD, while the economy expanded to 31.86 trillion Birr, or 210.7 billion USD, in the 2018 Ethiopian fiscal year (2025/26). The minister further highlighted the implications of the revised figures for assessing debt sustainability, improving tax-to-GDP ratios and identifying opportunities to broaden the domestic revenue base. Beyond the revised economic ranking, the rebasing represents an important step toward modernizing Ethiopia's economic measurement systems and aligning national planning with the changing realities of its economy. African Political Parties Summit: Reimagining Political Leadership for Economic Transformation   Ethiopia further strengthened its continental political engagement by hosting the Second African Political Parties Summit from November 5–7, 2026, bringing together approximately 1,000 delegates from across Africa. Organized by the ruling Prosperity Party in collaboration with the African Governance Center at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum in Addis Ababa, the three-day summit was held under the theme, "Governing for Growth: Political Parties as Architects of Africa's Economic Future." The gathering sought to encourage African political parties to move beyond short-term electoral competition and political mobilization toward long-term economic transformation, effective governance and sustainable development. At its core, the summit highlighted the need to reposition political parties as strategic institutions that shape economic policies, develop capable leadership, strengthen democratic institutions and drive national transformation. Addressing the summit, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed underscored the importance of developing a new generation of African leaders capable of sustaining development achievements and ensuring continuity in governance. He announced Ethiopia's commitment to extending leadership training opportunities at the African Leadership Excellence Academy to political parties across the continent. The Premier observed that countries risk losing development momentum when leaders fail to prepare capable successors, emphasizing the importance of empowering younger generations and entrusting them with meaningful responsibilities. "We have seen countries lose momentum when strong leaders fail to prepare successors. We must give younger members real responsibility and promote those who show judgment and integrity," he said.   Prime Minister Abiy also presented Ethiopia's leadership philosophy of Medemer, or synergy, as an approach that brings together diverse strengths around shared national and continental aspirations. Citing the country's development experience, he highlighted initiatives such as the digital identification programme and the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as examples of projects requiring sustained commitment, collective effort and continuity across generations. He also pointed to the Green Legacy Initiative, under which more than 56 billion seedlings have been planted since 2019, as an illustration of how collective action can restore degraded landscapes, protect water resources and strengthen resilience to climate change. Emphasizing inclusive governance and accountability, the Prime Minister stressed that political leadership should recognize the contributions of all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations. "Every citizen has an equal claim on the state, whichever party they support," he said. The summit thus provided a continental platform for exchanging political and governance experiences while advancing discussions on how African political institutions can become stronger drivers of economic growth and transformation. Addis Ababa Strengthens Its Position as a Continental Conference and Diplomacy Hub Beyond politics and economics, Ethiopia further consolidated Addis Ababa's position as a destination for major international and continental gatherings. The country hosted the Seventh World Health Organization Emergency Medical Teams (EMT) Global Meeting, marking the first time the global gathering has been held in the WHO African Region. The meeting provided an important platform for strengthening emergency medical preparedness, improving response coordination and sharing experiences in managing public health emergencies. And Ethiopia has called for operational regional solidarity to improve preparedness and respond to health emergencies. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Health Minister Dr. Mekdes Daba has called for sustained investment in emergency medical teams, stronger coordination across sectors and operational regional solidarity to improve preparedness and response to health emergencies.   She noted that Africa has been strengthening its leadership and capacity in global emergency response, moving beyond receiving assistance to training skilled professionals, developing evidence-based solutions and deploying its own emergency teams in partnership with international actors. However, she stressed that growing emergency challenges across Africa and beyond require stronger national capabilities, country ownership and effective international cooperation to ensure timely and coordinated responses. WHO Regional Director for Africa Dr. Mohamed Yakub Janabi commended Ethiopia's progress, noting that Senegal was the first African country to receive WHO classification, followed by Ethiopia. He underscored the importance of strengthening national emergency response systems, pointing out that the WHO African Region experiences more than 100 significant public health events annually. Meanwhile, Addis Ababa also hosted the 36th African Hydro Symposium, where energy security, regional electricity interconnections and the development of effective power markets featured prominently. Speaking at the gathering, United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) Executive Secretary Claver Gatete emphasized that stronger regional electricity networks and efficient power markets would enable African countries to utilize their energy resources more effectively while enhancing the resilience of their electricity systems. He stressed that energy security increasingly requires regional cooperation, coordinated infrastructure development and sustained collaboration among governments, utilities, regulators and regional institutions. The two gatherings further highlighted Ethiopia's growing role in providing platforms for international cooperation, knowledge exchange and collective responses to shared continental challenges. Expanding Diplomatic and Economic Partnerships Ethiopia's diplomatic engagements during the week also reflected its continued efforts to diversify international partnerships and attract investment, technology and expertise. Ethiopia and China reaffirmed their commitment to deepening their All-Weather Strategic Partnership, with particular emphasis on trade, investment and capacity building. During discussions, Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos and Chinese Ambassador Chen Hai explored ways to expand bilateral cooperation and strengthen support for Ethiopia's development priorities.   Similarly, Ethiopia and the European Union highlighted growing opportunities for cooperation in critical minerals, seeking to combine the country's resource potential with European technology, expertise, investment and professional training. The partnership is expected to contribute to economic diversification, employment creation and the broader global green transition. Meanwhile, UN-Habitat Regional Director for Africa Oumar Sylla described Ethiopia's hosting of COP32 in November 2027 as a significant opportunity for Africa to strengthen its voice in global climate diplomacy. He commended Ethiopia's green development efforts, particularly its investments in clean energy, urban greening, clean cooking and large-scale tree planting. These engagements reflect Ethiopia's efforts to translate its diplomatic standing into stronger economic partnerships, investment opportunities and greater participation in shaping international development priorities. Abay River and Red Sea: Ethiopia's Strategic Development Priorities Alongside its economic and diplomatic engagements, Ethiopia's strategic ambitions surrounding the Abay River and the Red Sea corridor remained central to the week's discussions. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Water and Energy Minister Habtamu Itefa said Egypt's longstanding diplomatic and political efforts to obstruct Ethiopia's development projects on the Abay River and isolate the country from the Red Sea were no longer effective.   He urged Cairo to reconsider its historical posture toward Ethiopia and adopt a more constructive approach to both the shared river and Ethiopia's interests in Red Sea access. Recalling decades of resistance to Ethiopia's efforts to utilize its water resources for development, the minister said the successful construction and operationalization of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam had fundamentally changed the situation. Despite contributing approximately 86 percent of the Nile's total flow, Ethiopia had long faced opposition to its efforts to harness the river for development. However, the GERD has demonstrated the country's determination and capacity to pursue its development aspirations.   "Ethiopia has been able to break that line of thinking by building the GERD. We have closed that chapter," Habtamu said. The minister's remarks underscored Ethiopia's position that the equitable utilization of shared water resources should be guided by cooperation, mutual benefit and the legitimate development interests of all riparian countries. Meanwhile, Mohamed Al-Arousi, Advisor to the Minister of Water and Energy, reaffirmed Ethiopia's determination to continue developing its water resources through major dam projects. Speaking to ENA, he said the country would not abandon its development agenda because of political pressure or disputed narratives surrounding the shared river. "We have built dams, and, God willing, we will continue building a series of dams," Al-Arousi said.   He accused Egypt of mobilizing media outlets to portray Ethiopia's water development agenda negatively and generate international sympathy against the country's legitimate development aspirations. The advisor maintained that Ethiopia's investments in water infrastructure reflect its determination to harness its natural resources for national development. He also rejected attempts to undermine the legitimacy of Ethiopian projects through political pressure and what he described as the distortion of facts. Addressing concerns raised by downstream countries, particularly regarding the GERD, Al-Arousi argued that recurring accusations had neither advanced negotiations nor brought the parties closer to a lasting agreement. The developments once again highlighted the importance of constructive regional dialogue and cooperation in addressing shared water resources while respecting the development aspirations of all countries. Ethiopia's Growing Continental and International Profile Taken together, the developments of the first week of November 2026 reflect several dimensions of Ethiopia's evolving national and international profile. Its revised economic standing has brought renewed attention to the scale and structure of its economy. The African Political Parties Summit has provided a platform for advancing discussions on leadership, governance and long-term development across the continent. The WHO global meeting and African Hydro Symposium have further demonstrated Addis Ababa's capacity to convene international expertise and facilitate cooperation on issues of shared importance. At the same time, Ethiopia's diplomatic engagements and continued emphasis on the Abay River and Red Sea corridor underscore its determination to advance economic partnerships, safeguard its development interests and strengthen its strategic position in the Horn of Africa.   As Ethiopia prepares to host COP32 in 2027, its growing economic profile, continental engagements and development ambitions are likely to remain important dimensions of its engagement with Africa and the wider international community.   ENA | Ethiopian News Agency: Bringing Ethiopia's development, diplomatic engagements and Africa's evolving role in global affairs to the world.

Addis Ababa, November 8, 2026 (ENA)— Strengthening digital sovereignty and developing artificial intelligence infrastructure should be the priorities for Africa, Innovation and Technology State Minister Solomon Soka said. According to him, sovereignty is no longer limited to geographical boundaries, but increasingly depends on algorithms, computing centers, and artificial intelligence technologies. “Our sovereign spirit cannot be broken by external domination, but the arena of sovereignty has fundamentally changed. Today, it is defined by algorithms, computing capabilities, and artificial intelligence,” he noted. Warning the danger AI-powered disinformation poses to economic and social stability by undermining public trust and affecting markets and investment, the State Minister stressed the need to establish independent African AI systems that ensure control over data, algorithms, and technological capabilities. He revealed that Ethiopia is pursuing an approach of functional sovereignty, guided by the philosophy of “Medemer,” which emphasizes integration, strengthening national capabilities, protecting critical data, and maintaining independent decision-making. The Digital Ethiopia 2030 Strategy translates this vision into action through the development of digital infrastructure and national capabilities, he added. Solomon highlighted the launch of the national digital identity system (Fayda), the initiative to train five million Ethiopians in coding, and the establishment of the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute. The institute is developing AI models in Ethiopia’s local languages to strengthen the presence of national identity and culture in the digital space. The State Minister noted that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed initiated the establishment of Medemer Artificial Intelligence University, which is envisioned as a continental hub for developing expertise and strengthening African countries’ capabilities in artificial intelligence. Moreover, he noted that reliable energy, expanded telecommunications networks, data centers, and cloud computing infrastructure are essential requirements for achieving digital sovereignty. “You cannot build a sovereign home on rented land,” the State Minister said, stressing the importance of African countries owning their data centers and cloud infrastructure and hosting their data within their territories. He noted that Ethiopia aims to host its national data, projected to reach approximately 600 petabytes within its digital infrastructure by 2030. Solomon also called for stronger African technological integration, noting that individual African countries cannot compete with the massive investments of global technology companies on their own. In his remarks at a parallel session on the sidelines of the Second African Political Parties Summit in Addis Ababa, the State Minister warned against the use of deepfake technology and disinformation to influence voters, urging political parties to adopt ethical and responsible AI practices. He underscored that exploiting these technologies for electoral gains would undermine public trust in institutions and threaten political and economic stability

Addis Ababa, November 8, 2026 (ENA)— Egypt’s longstanding diplomatic and political conspiracy to block Ethiopia’s development projects on Abay River and isolate the country from the Red Sea are no longer effective, Water and Energy Minister Habtamu Itefa said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, the Minister said that Cairo should reconsider its historical posture toward Ethiopia regarding both the Abay (Blue Nile) River and access to the Red Sea instead of opposing Ethiopian interests.   He recalled that Egypt had for decades sought to obstruct Ethiopia's efforts to utilize the Nile for development, but Ethiopia had brought an end to that chapter of resistance by successfully building the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. Despite Ethiopia’s 86 percent contribution to the river's total flow, Egypt had tried to stop from leveraging its water resources. The successful construction and operationalization of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam has however effectively transformed those dynamics, the Minister noted. "Ethiopia has been able to break that line of thinking by building the GERD. We have closed that chapter."   As regards Egyptian claims that the dam would reduce downstream water availability, the Minister pointed out that post-completion reality contradicts Cairo’s warnings. Downstream flow has remained steady, with water continuing to reach Egypt after driving the GERD’s power-generating turbines. Furthermore, Habtamu cited environmental measures, including the planting of over 56 billion tree seedlings under the Green Legacy Initiative in the Baro-Akobo and Abay river basins that bolster the overall watershed and maintain water flow. He also explained GERD’s role in regulating floodwaters for neighboring Sudan, preventing the destructive seasonal flooding along the Blue Nile that previously threatened Sudanese infrastructure and lives. Reflecting on the past hydro-diplomacy, the Minister argued that while Egypt regularly accuses Ethiopia of unilateral action, Cairo itself has built massive infrastructure projects such as the Toshka and New Valley projects without consulting upstream riparian states.   In contrast, the he underscored Ethiopia's commitment to shared regional growth through energy exports, pointing out that neighbors like Kenya and Djibouti are already benefitting from GERD-generated electricity, with Somalia and South Sudan seeking expanded energy integration. "Our vision is prosperity for all and poverty for none," the Minister said, emphasizing the need for cooperation among countries in the region. He concluded: "Cooperation is the backbone of development. The international community increasingly understands the realities on the ground, and Egypt would benefit far more from partnering with us than trying to maintain outdated monopolies." According to the Minister, Egypt had been somehow successful in its efforts to isolate Ethiopia from the Red Sea by supporting the separation of Eritrea during the EPRDF-led government. He attributed this development partly to the influence of Egypt at the time, pointing at the fact that the then UN Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali was an Egyptian. Yet, the public had long aspired to restore access to the sea, Habtamu noted.   The Minister criticized Cairo’s efforts to isolate Ethiopia from the Red Sea, linking historic setbacks to Egyptian diplomatic influence during past geopolitical transitions. He stated that previous Ethiopian administrations had avoided asserting maritime rights, but noted that the current government has formally reactivated the national demand. With a population of 130 million, a growing economy and legitimate security imperatives, Ethiopia’s demand for seaports is fully justified, he added.   "Historically, Ethiopia had access to the sea. It is a contradiction to claim Egypt has rights in the Red Sea while insisting Ethiopia must remain landlocked," he noted Finally, the Minister urged Egypt to abandon its active lobbying against Ethiopia's port aspirations and instead support an arrangement that benefits regional stability.

Addis Ababa, November 8, 2026 (ENA)— African political parties must play a greater role in driving economic transformation and strengthening the continent’s sovereignty and institutions, Said President of the Pan-African Parliament, Dr. Fateh Boutbig. He made the remarks in his closing address yesterday at the Second African Political Parties Summit, held in Addis Ababa on its third and final day under the theme “Governance for Growth.” Boutbig expressed his appreciation to the Ethiopian government and people for hosting the second edition of the summit. He also commended Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for his commitment to Africa’s development and economic transformation. Parliament President noted that holding the summit at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum carries profound historical significance, recalling Africa’s resistance against colonialism. He said the site highlights the sacrifices made for freedom and the need to advance from political liberation to economic emancipation. Boutbig stressed that Africa must control its economic decisions and strengthen its capacity to produce wealth, knowledge, and technology. He called on political parties to move beyond competition for power and focus on building productive and prosperous economies. “The true value of a political party is not measured solely by the number of seats it secures in legislative bodies, but by its ability to develop skilled human resources, build institutions, and translate citizens' aspirations into public policies,” he said. Boutbig added that democracy goes beyond elections, requiring accountability, responsibility, and respect for political pluralism. He highlighted the need to shift African economies from raw material exports to manufacturing, innovation, and value addition. Parliament President also emphasized investment in African people, particularly young people and women, and their participation in decision-making. He noted that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers opportunities to strengthen regional markets and advance the African Union’s Agenda 2063. He said achieving these goals requires political will, effective institutions, investment-friendly legislation, and lasting stability. Parliament President also highlighted the Addis Ababa Declaration and initiatives to strengthen political training and develop African leadership. Boutbig affirmed that the Pan-African Parliament would support these efforts through parliamentary diplomacy and legislative cooperation. He announced plans to launch the African Center for Legislative Studies and Research in December and establish the first African Parliamentary University next year. He also unveiled an initiative to organize an African Conference of Political Parties in 2027, in coordination with the African Governance Center, to promote conflict prevention and peacebuilding. Boutbig said the conference would bring together political and parliamentary leaders to exchange experiences and strengthen early warning mechanisms.He further announced plans to organize an African Women Parliamentarians Conference next year. He called for translating summit outcomes into practical programs through stronger coordination among political parties, parliaments, and governments. Parliament President stressed that global economic, technological, and geopolitical changes require Africa to actively shape its future rather than simply receive decisions made elsewhere. Concluding his address, he said, “The Africa we want is not an Africa we wait to arrive, but an Africa we build today.” He called for greater African unity and solidarity, emphasizing the importance of making Addis Ababa a starting point for a new era of collective action towards a free, united, and strong Africa.

Addis Ababa, November 7, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s ruling Prosperity Party urged political parties to move beyond election-driven politics and embrace long-term strategic leadership that prioritizes effective governance, sustainable investment, and national development. Head of Strategic Affairs at the Prosperity Party, Dr. Dereje Duguma said political parties should focus less on winning elections and more on translating national development ambitions into tangible and lasting results. He made the remarks during a panel discussion held under the theme “Political Parties as Engines of National Development.” Dr. Dereje underscored that political parties have a crucial responsibility to shape national development agendas, advance strategic priorities, and ensure that development plans deliver meaningful outcomes for citizens. He emphasized the need for political parties to align their policies and actions with long-term national and continental aspirations, particularly the African Union’s Agenda 2063. “Political parties should look beyond seasonal election campaigns and adopt long-term strategic frameworks that advance national prosperity and development,” he noted. He further stressed that sustainable development requires investment in the country's future, strong institutions, and leadership commitment that extends beyond electoral cycles. Effective governance, he added, should begin with adequate preparation and institutional capacity even before political parties assume office. Comparing political engagement to a marathon rather than a 100-meter sprint, Dr. Dereje said political parties must approach their responsibilities as a long-term undertaking, with sustained efforts directed toward national transformation. Highlighting the Prosperity Party’s institutional efforts to strengthen leadership capacity, he pointed to the establishment of training structures designed to develop party members and leaders at different levels. Among these, he cited the African Leadership Excellence Center (AfLEX), alongside similar institutions established at regional levels, which provide leadership training and strengthen institutional capacity. According to him, these institutions help enhance leadership development, performance evaluation, monitoring, and accountability within the party. He also identified Medemer as the philosophical foundation underpinning the Prosperity Party’s policies and strategies across social, economic, and foreign affairs sectors. Dr. Dereje further highlighted the party’s leadership incubation programme, which aims to nurture capable leaders at different levels through structured development initiatives and objective performance evaluation. He stressed that strong leadership, capable institutions, and a long-term development vision are essential for political parties to move beyond electoral competition and become effective drivers of national transformation.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s Medemer philosophy has emerged as a powerful framework for harnessing African nations’ collective capabilities, driving national transformation and achieving shared prosperity, Bikila Hurisa told ENA. Bikila, Coordinator for Democratic System Building with the rank of Minister at the Office of the Prime Minister, spoke on the sidelines of the Second African Political Parties Summit in Addis Ababa, emphasizing that Medemer is fundamentally rooted in cooperation, unity and synergy. He noted that by embracing collective action, African countries can pool their resources and strengths to address common regional challenges and drive sustainable development across the continent. Highlighting its broader significance, Bikila described Medemer as "the philosophy of cooperation, coming together, joining hands, and connecting the past, the present, and the future." The Minister further elaborated that the philosophy has served as the guiding principle behind Ethiopia’s political, economic and social reforms over the past eight years. He added that Ethiopia’s experience in implementing Medemer offers valuable insights for other African nations seeking to adapt its principles to their respective national contexts.   "This philosophy is not limited to Ethiopia and Ethiopians; it could serve as a strong springboard for all African countries to emulate and customize to their practical realities," Bikila said. He explained that Medemer enables countries to pool their individual strengths, transforming fragmented national potential into collective capacity to pursue shared prosperity. Beyond strengthening bilateral and continental ties, Bikila emphasized that realizing this vision requires political parties to rise above partisan differences and prioritize citizens’ welfare. Reflecting on the summit’s theme: "Governing for Growth: Political Parties as Architects of African Political and Economic Future," he noted that the participation of both governing and opposition parties underscores a growing commitment to national progress.   "Whatever idea you have, whatsoever ideology you are governed with, ultimately you have to work for the transformation of the lives of your citizens and the economic transformation of your people," he said. Bikila further stressed that the true measure of a political party’s success lies in tangible improvements in citizens’ lives rather than electoral victories or the pursuit of political power. "Governing for growth is beyond competition. Governing for growth is beyond an electoral cycle. It is beyond enjoying power," he said, underscoring the need for political parties to prioritize collective prosperity and a shared future.   Highlighting the importance of securing Africa’s long-term future, Bikila pointed to Medemer’s emphasis on connecting the past, present and future, particularly through preparing young people for leadership. "The young generation is a real promise of the future of Africa," he said, urging political leaders and institutions to invest in the continent’s youth to help shape its future trajectory. Empowering young people with clarity of thought and pragmatic approaches, he added, will ensure that future generations inherit strong, united, productive and prosperous African states.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s Medemer philosophy provides a comprehensive pathway to national prosperity by integrating economic development, political inclusivity, social cohesion and environmental sustainability, Prosperity Party Vice President Adem Farah said. Adem made the remarks while presenting Ethiopia’s experience of “Governing Transformation in Practice,” explaining how the philosophy connects political leadership, public policy and development initiatives to advance national transformation. He said the approach brings together public institutions, private enterprises and citizens around concrete national development objectives, particularly in areas requiring coordinated action across institutional boundaries. Adem further noted that Medemer provides an overarching framework for national transformation by setting strategic direction, building consensus and strengthening institutional and human capacity. Developed by Prosperity Party President and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the philosophy is anchored in three organizing principles: base, balance and build, which guide the development of individuals, institutions and shared national aspirations. He explained that the approach seeks to harmonize diverse identities and legitimate interests, balance competition with cooperation and foster a shared sense of national purpose. Adem stressed that sustainable transformation requires political and public mobilization to advance alongside institutionalization, noting that mobilization without strong institutional foundations cannot deliver lasting results. He outlined three key stages through which the party translates the Medemer philosophy into practical development outcomes: aligning stakeholders around common objectives, developing comprehensive implementation frameworks and delivering measurable results through continuous support, performance assessment and accountability. He said effective implementation requires detailed blueprints, clearly defined responsibilities, capable leadership and implementation teams, adequate training and the timely provision of necessary resources. The Vice President also highlighted the significance of the four Medemer books, which explore the philosophical foundations of collective action, practical pathways to transformation, the development of capable generations and the role of the state in delivering national prosperity. He emphasized that the philosophy envisions prosperity beyond economic growth, encompassing political, social and environmental dimensions, underpinned by productive capacity, political inclusivity, the rule of law, social cohesion and responsible environmental stewardship. Adem further underscored the importance of cultivating a new generation equipped with strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, digital proficiency and strong ethical standards, while ensuring meaningful leadership opportunities for women and young people. He also emphasized that effective governance must accelerate transformation through innovation and creativity, eliminate implementation bottlenecks and strategically adopt advanced knowledge and technologies to shorten development pathways.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopian exporters are featuring products from a range of sectors at the 9th China International Import Expo (CIIE), aiming to widen market access, reinforce trade ties, and forge new commercial opportunities in China and beyond. The country’s participation in the exhibition is being coordinated by the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration. The annual international trade exhibition, held in Shanghai, brings together exporters, importers and business representatives from around the world to promote international trade and investment.   This year's expo opened on November 5 and will run through November 10, 2026 Ethiopia has been participating in the exhibition for nine consecutive time, with exporters representing various economic sectors. The Ethiopian pavilion was inaugurated in the presence of representatives of the Ethiopian Embassy in Beijing and participating delegates, according to the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration. At the Ethiopian pavilion, coffee-tasting programmes and traditional cultural dance performances are attracting visitors and trade representatives, helping promote the country's products while showcasing its rich cultural heritage. Ethiopian Airlines is also presenting special displays at the pavilion to promote the airline and enhance Ethiopia's image among international visitors, complementing the country's broader efforts to strengthen its global profile.   To facilitate the participation of Ethiopian exporters, the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration is providing professional and technical support to help businesses establish international connections, promote their products and facilitate trade agreements. The ministry said Ethiopia's participation in the expo is expected to enable exporters to identify new market opportunities, expand their international presence and strengthen existing trade relationships.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed called on African political parties to embrace leadership renewal and build consensus on long-term national priorities. He also stressed that the continent's development must transcend electoral cycles and changes of government. The Prime Minister made the call while opening the Second African Political Parties Summit in Addis Ababa, where he proposed two key commitments for inclusion in the Addis Ababa Declaration: establishing consensus on long-term national development priorities and strengthening leadership development and succession across Africa.   He emphasized that political parties should agree on strategic national goals with measurable milestones to ensure continuity of development efforts regardless of political transitions. PM Abiy elaborated that parties can maintain ideological and policy differences and compete for electoral support while working together on fundamental national interests and long-term development objectives. He also stressed that leadership succession is essential to sustaining development, warning that countries risk losing hard-won progress when incumbent leaders fail to prepare the next generation of leadership. Highlighting Ethiopia's experience in political inclusiveness, the Prime Minister said the country's reformed government has incorporated leaders from opposition political parties.   This reflects an approach that values broader participation and shared responsibility, the Premier revealed. He noted that Ethiopia's Medemer philosophy encourages political actors to recognize and build on one another's contributions despite their differences, particularly when national interests call for collective action. Turning to economic transformation, PM Abiy outlined key measures undertaken through Ethiopia's Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda, including opening the telecommunications, banking and competition sectors to foreign participation and introducing a market-based foreign exchange system. He also highlighted the Green Legacy Initiative, noting that more than 50 billion seedlings have been planted since its launch in 2019 through the collective participation of citizens, communities and institutions.   The initiative, he explained, is aimed at restoring degraded landscapes, protecting water resources and strengthening national resilience to climate-related challenges, including droughts and floods. The Prime Minister's proposals place leadership renewal, political consensus and policy continuity at the center of Africa's development agenda, underscoring the need for political parties to serve not only as vehicles for electoral competition but also as institutions that sustain national transformation. He called on African political parties to strengthen cooperation around shared national priorities and build a development vision that endures beyond political transitions.   The Second African Political Parties Summit is being held in Addis Ababa under the theme “Governing for Growth: Political Parties as Architects of Africa's Economic Future.”

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)—African Political Parties Summit delegates have toured Addis Ababa’s major urban development projects, witnessing the Ethiopian capital’s ongoing transformation into a modern, inclusive and more accessible city. Speaking at a reception hosted in their honor, Head of the Democracy Building Center Coordinator Office with the rank of Deputy Prime Minister and Prosperity Party Vice President Adam Farah described Addis Ababa as the political capital and beating heart of Africa, emphasizing its significance as a shared home for all Africans.   “When you are in Addis Ababa, you are not visiting a foreign city; you are returning home, to the heart of Africa,” he said. Adem underscored that Africa’s strength lies in the bonds of fraternity, solidarity and closer cooperation among its peoples, stressing the importance of shared political visions and aspirations in advancing the continent’s development and self-reliance. He also invited the delegates to experience Ethiopia’s renowned hospitality and rich cultural heritage, expressing hope that the summit would produce meaningful and tangible outcomes toward building a prosperous and united Africa. Meanwhile, the delegates concluded a series of field visits across Addis Ababa, touring major streets, modern urban corridors, public spaces and development projects that are reshaping the capital’s urban landscape. During the visits, they gained insights into Ethiopia’s integrated urban corridor development approach, which combines improved infrastructure, pedestrian-friendly spaces, accessibility and modern urban planning to create more functional and livable urban environments. Through museum visits and presentations, participants also explored the different phases of Addis Ababa’s urban development and the vision underpinning its ongoing transformation.   The programme concluded with a cultural reception featuring traditional music, artistic performances and songs reflecting Ethiopia’s rich cultural diversity and heritage. Delegates expressed admiration for the performances and the authenticity of Ethiopian culture. The visits and cultural activities formed part of the accompanying programme of the Second African Political Parties Summit, hosted in Addis Ababa under the theme: ““Governing for Growth: Political Parties as Architects of Africa’s Economic Future.”

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)— Participants of the Second African Political Parties Summit have visited the headquarters of Ethiopia’s ruling Prosperity Party in Addis Ababa to learn about the party’s political philosophy, development initiatives and achievements. During the visit, the delegation toured the party’s permanent exhibition, where they received briefings on its history, the Medemer philosophy, major initiatives, key achievements and future vision. The participants also watched video presentations highlighting the Prosperity Party’s journey, major milestones and the development of its headquarters.   The delegation subsequently visited the MESOB Service Center, a government initiative designed to streamline public service delivery by bringing multiple government institutions together through an integrated platform. There, they received briefings on Ethiopia’s digital public services, technological advancements and ongoing efforts to modernize government service delivery. The participants expressed amazement at the level of digital development and technological progress, particularly the integration of multiple public services through a unified system. The visits were organized as part of the Second African Political Parties Summit, being held in Ethiopia under the theme: “Governing for Growth: Political Parties as Architects of Africa’s Economic Future.”   The three-day summit is taking place at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum in Addis Ababa, bringing together political party leaders, heads of state and policymakers from across the continent. The summit, which opened today, November 5, 2026, is deliberating on strategies for advancing employment creation, inclusive development and the structural transformation of African economies. Earlier today, the joint opening session of the Africa Women Political Leadership Forum and the African Youth in Politics Forum was also held as part of the summit.

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia and China have signed a 15 million USD grant agreement to support supplementary works on the Ethio-Djibouti Railway, aimed at improving the railway's operational efficiency, reliability and long-term sustainability. The agreement was signed in Addis Ababa by State Minister of Finance Tiguist Fisseha on behalf of the Ethiopian government and Minister Counsellor at the Chinese Embassy in Ethiopia, Liu Xiaoguang, representing the Chinese government.   The grant package, provided through the China-Aid fund, will finance critical material assistance, equipment upgrades and technical capacity-building to strengthen the operation and maintenance of the strategic rail corridor. The support includes essential mechanical and electrical spare parts for electric locomotives, specialized track components and station-yard accessories to enhance the reliability of railway infrastructure. It also covers small-scale machinery for routine track inspections and maintenance. In addition, Chinese technical experts will visit Ethiopia to provide practical guidance, train railway personnel and strengthen local technical capacity.   The supplementary project is expected to improve the operational reliability of the Ethio-Djibouti standard gauge railway while enhancing the country's capacity to maintain the vital transport corridor. The agreement further underscores the longstanding economic and development partnership between Ethiopia and China, which extends beyond railway infrastructure to agricultural technical assistance, technical and vocational education and training (TVET), green development initiatives and technical studies for future capital projects.   Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to close coordination to ensure the smooth implementation of the railway support project.

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s Minister of Women and Social Affairs, Shawit Shanka, called on African countries to ensure women’s equal participation in political leadership and economic decision-making, saying the continent cannot realize its full development potential while marginalizing half of its population. The Minister made the remarks while addressing the joint opening session of the 2nd African Political Parties Summit 2026, which opened alongside the Africa Women Political Leadership Forum 2026 and the African Youth in Politics Forum 2026 in Addis Ababa.   “No continent can realize its potential when marginalizing half of its population,” she said. Shawit emphasized that women should be recognized not merely as beneficiaries of assistance but as producers, innovators, leaders and agents of peace and development. She noted that investing in women contributes to economic transformation, democratic governance, social cohesion and sustainable development. The Minister said Africa was undergoing major changes driven by geopolitical shifts, technological advancements, demographic trends, climate pressures and evolving economic relationships. She called on African countries to proactively shape these changes through visionary leadership, resilient institutions and collective action. She explained that Ethiopia’s development approach is guided by the principle of Medemer, which emphasizes synergy, togetherness and collective contribution. The minister added that women are equal stakeholders, productive agents and co-architects of the country's transformation.   “Women are producers, innovators, leaders and agents of peace and development, not merely beneficiaries of assistance,” she emphasized. Shawit said advancing women's leadership requires visionary leadership, sustained political commitment and strong institutional action, particularly within political parties. Political parties, she added, should strengthen women's participation in their structures, leadership positions and candidate selection processes to ensure their meaningful representation in decision-making. She also highlighted the commitment of Ethiopia’s Prosperity Party-led government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, to women’s empowerment, saying the Medemer philosophy demonstrates that women can lead at every level. Ethiopia, she noted, is sharing its experience not as a claim of perfection, but as evidence of what can be achieved through political will, an inclusive development philosophy and sustained action.   The Minister stressed that decisions made today would shape the future of generations, urging African countries to build a continent where women are equally represented in political leadership, economically empowered and protected by strong institutions. She further called for an Africa where every girl can aspire to become a leader, entrepreneur, scientist or policymaker without barriers imposed by gender or circumstances. Shawit officially opened the joint forum, calling for stronger collective efforts to advance women's political leadership across the continent.

Addis Ababa, November 4, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s ability to leverage renewable energy and self-funded infrastructure is not only attracting sustainability businesses but also serving as an inspiration for the rest of Africa, ESG360 CEO and Managing Director Bethlehem Hailu said. Speaking to ENA on the sidelines of the 36th African Hydro Symposium in Addis Ababa, Bethlehem noted that Ethiopia’s hydropower plants—most notably the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD)—are pivotal to climate action. By providing clean electricity, these projects substantially reduce carbon emissions. When a country’s electricity supply is predominantly derived from hydropower, it diminishes reliance on carbon-intensive energy sources, she explained. According to her, this shift makes Ethiopia an attractive destination for corporations committed to lowering their environmental footprint and meeting rigorous sustainability targets. She further pointed to Ethiopia’s nationwide tree-planting initiatives and its investment in human capital as essential, complementary pillars of the country’s broader sustainability strategy. Bethlehem highlighted that the "GERD model" of domestic financing serves as a transformative lesson for the continent. She noted that by funding such a massive project internally, Ethiopia has encouraged other African nations to explore their own financing capacities rather than relying solely on international aid. Echoing these sentiments, Lioko Sitali, Director of Transmission Operations and Trade at ZESCO Limited, stated that Ethiopia’s GERD experience offers invaluable insights for African nations planning similar energy infrastructure. Inspired by Ethiopia's experience with GERD, he said his delegation came to learn from the country's implementation of the large-scale project, adding that the knowledge gained could help facilitate similar initiatives in other African countries. Held under the theme "Climate-Resilient Hydropower and Water-Energy Security in Africa," the four-day symposium brings together governments, utilities, financiers, developers and researchers from Africa and beyond to discuss sustainable hydropower development and the continent's energy security.

Addis Ababa, November 4, 2026 (ENA)— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said advance preparations by the government and the public have helped sustain encouraging winter farming performance in Bale Zone despite concerns over insufficient rainfall. “We have reviewed the performance of winter farming in Bale Zone. Despite significant concerns over rainfall shortages this winter, good results have been recorded thanks to the advance preparations undertaken by the government and the public,” the Prime Minister wrote on social media pages.   PM Abiy emphasized that strengthening economic resilience against both human-induced and natural challenges requires proactive planning, preparedness, and the expansion of available options.   “Preparing in advance and expanding options are essential for ensuring that our economy remains resilient and withstands both human-made and natural challenges,” he added.

Addis Ababa, November 4, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s newly completed Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rebasing will provide a stronger foundation for the country’s long-term development ambitions, particularly its vision of building a prosperous nation, Minister of National Strategy Bereket Fesehatsion said. Ethiopia today unveiled its updated GDP figures as part of efforts to modernize economic measurement and reflect structural changes in the economy. With the 2017 Ethiopian fiscal year (2024/25) as the new base year, the country’s GDP reached 24.03 trillion Birr (201.42 billion USD). The figure further rose to 31.86 trillion Birr (210.7 billion USD) in the 2018 Ethiopian fiscal year (2025/26).   Speaking at the launch of the updated GDP rebasing results, Minister Bereket said the revised measurement system provides a more accurate picture of the country's economic structure by incorporating emerging economic activities and previously underrepresented sectors. He noted that the updated economic structure underscores the importance of moving beyond quantitative growth toward building a productive economy. He pointed out that the new GDP rebasing would help generate employment, strengthen domestic production capacity, and reduce excessive dependence on primary commodities. The minister further emphasized that reliable economic statistics are essential for improving policy formulation, budget allocation, investment decisions, and economic planning, while strengthening the confidence of domestic and international investors. He said the revised GDP framework would provide a more accurate benchmark for assessing national economic objectives, including foreign trade, revenue generation, investment, and employment creation.   The 2017 Ethiopian fiscal year, corresponding to 2024/25 in the Gregorian calendar, was selected as the new base year for the exercise, taking into account its relative macroeconomic stability, declining inflation, and the availability of comprehensive statistical data. The process incorporated findings from the agricultural census, the economic establishments census, and household surveys, among other sources, enabling the country to update its national accounts in line with contemporary economic realities. The minister stated that the exercise was conducted under the leadership of Ethiopian professionals, with technical assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), to ensure alignment with the 2008 System of National Accounts and other international standards. He also highlighted the government's efforts to strengthen national statistical capacity by recruiting and training young graduates to work alongside experienced professionals, ensuring the transfer of technical knowledge and the sustainability of the process.   The government will institutionalize GDP rebasing every five years to maintain the reliability and relevance of national economic statistics, it was indicated. The minister said the updated measurement system would serve as a new foundation for Ethiopia's long-term development ambitions, particularly its vision of building a prosperous country by 2050 through strengthened domestic capacity and improved living standards for citizens.

Addis Ababa, November 4, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia has today unveiled its updated Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures as part of efforts to modernize economic measurement and reflect structural changes in the economy. The newly launched GDP rebasing will strengthen national economic planning, fiscal and monetary policymaking, and domestic revenue mobilization by providing a more accurate picture of the country's economy, Finance Minister Fitsum Assefa said. Speaking at the official launch of the country's GDP rebasing results, the minister said the revised economic accounting framework would help the government better assess the size, structure, and performance of the economy while providing a reliable basis for development planning and policy decisions. Ethiopia's GDP, with the 2017 Ethiopian fiscal year ((2024/25) as the base year, reached 24.03 trillion Birr (201.42 billion USD), while the economy expanded to 31.86 trillion Birr (210.7 billion USD) in the 2018 Ethiopian fiscal year. Minister Fitsum noted that the updated GDP framework would have significant implications for assessing the country's debt sustainability, strengthening fiscal and monetary policies, and improving domestic resource mobilization. She further explained that a more accurate measurement of the national economy would enable the country to assess debt and tax ratios more effectively and identify opportunities to broaden the tax base and enhance domestic revenue collection. The revised GDP would also provide investors, development partners, and international financial institutions with a more reliable economic profile of Ethiopia, thereby supporting informed investment and development decisions, the minister added. Fitsum called on federal and regional government institutions, development partners, and the private sector to make effective use of the revised economic data in their planning, budgeting, investment, and policy decisions. She emphasized that the updated statistical framework would serve as an important feedback mechanism for implementing the targets of the Medemer Grand Strategy, strengthening transparency, accountability, and results-oriented performance across sectors. Regarding the process, Fitsum said the GDP rebasing was completed over one year, from September 2018 to September 2019 in the Ethiopian calendar, as one of the key milestones of the Ethiopian Statistics Development Program. The minister described the achievement as an important demonstration of the country's statistical sovereignty, noting that the revised accounts comply with the internationally recognized 2008 System of National Accounts (SNA 2008). She further noted that the revised framework incorporates structural changes in the Ethiopian economy, including the expansion of digital financial services and developments in modern trade, industry, and mining activities.

Addis Ababa, November 3, 2026 (ENA)— Stronger regional electricity networks and effective power markets would enable African countries to utilize their energy resources more efficiently while improving the resilience of their electricity systems, United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) Executive Secretary Claver Gatete said today. The Executive Secretary made the call while speaking at the 36th African Hydro Symposium in Addis Ababa. According to him, energy security is increasingly a regional undertaking, requiring coordinated infrastructure planning and sustained cooperation among governments, utilities, regulators and regional organizations. Gatete further stressed that regional energy integration depends on climate-resilient hydropower development, calling for climate risk assessments, sustainable water management and stronger cooperation among countries sharing river basins.   He also highlighted the need to improve hydropower project financing and strengthen African technical and institutional capacity to support sustainable energy development. Echoing the call for stronger regional energy integration, Water and Energy State Minister Dinku Seyum said that Ethiopia views the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and its broader hydropower portfolio as catalysts for regional energy integration.   He said surplus clean electricity from Ethiopia's hydropower resources would support cross-border power trade and foster more interconnected regional energy systems. The State Minister noted that the GERD demonstrates Ethiopia's commitment to harnessing its natural resources for sustainable development, ensuring domestic energy security while contributing to broader regional connectivity. Dinku called on African countries to strengthen cooperation in developing their hydropower resources and mobilize their own resources to overcome financing and technical capacity constraints. Ethiopia's Green Legacy Initiative and integrated watershed management efforts are important measures for protecting the environment and sustaining hydropower resources, he added, underscoring the need to diversify energy sources to strengthen climate resilience. The opening of the symposium has also seen the launch of African Union's Continental Energy Security Policy Framework which provides a common basis for advancing energy security at national and regional levels.   The framework, developed with support from UNECA, African Union Development Agency-NEPAD (AUDA-NEPAD) and the African Energy Commission, was approved by the AU Specialized Technical Committee on Transport and Energy in April this year. Held under the theme "Climate-Resilient Hydropower and Water-Energy Security in Africa," the three-day symposium has brought together governments, utilities, financiers, developers and researchers from Africa and beyond to discuss sustainable hydropower development and the continent's energy security.

Addis Ababa, November 3, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia and China have reaffirmed their commitment to further deepening their longstanding All-Weather Strategic Partnership, with a renewed focus on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, and capacity building. Minister of Foreign Affairs Gedion Timothewos held talks with Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia Chen Hai today.   The two sides discussed ways to strengthen the longstanding and unwavering partnership between the two countries. During the meeting, the two sides exchanged views on enhancing bilateral relations and agreed to deepen cooperation across key areas, particularly trade, investment, and capacity building, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ambassador Chen Hai reaffirmed China's commitment to sustaining and expanding its support for the successful implementation of the Medemer Government's development plans.   The discussions underscore the two countries' shared interest in advancing their strategic partnership and broadening economic and development cooperation.

Addis Ababa, November 3, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s critical minerals and European expertise, technology, investment, and training can drive mutual growth, deepen economic ties, and create lasting institutional collaboration, Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA) Executive Director Abdiwasa Abdilahi said. Speaking at a policy dialogue held to bolster strategic cooperation on critical raw minerals at the Institute today, the Executive Director stressed the strategic importance of this alliance. According to him, the cooperation between Ethiopia and the European Union becomes particularly relevant at this juncture. Stressing the immense value of shared knowledge, Abdiwasa noted that European Union's valuable experience in geological research, advanced technologies and professional training offers important opportunities for knowledge exchange and institutional collaborations. “By bringing together Ethiopia's rich resource base with European expertise, technology and investment, both sides can generate tangible benefits and strengthen their economic relations,” the Executive Director said. Echoing this vision, EU Delegation Green Deal Team Leader Julia Walschebauer highlighted Ethiopia's critical mineral reserves, robust renewable energy capacity, and commitment to a clean economy. Walschebauer noted that “this gives Ethiopia a distinctive role in the wider green transition and creates a strong basis for deeper cooperation with the European Union”.   Praising Ethiopia’s unique position in the global shift toward sustainability, the EU Delegation Green Deal Team Leader affirmed Europe's long-term commitment. “The European Union stands ready to continue engaging with Ethiopia in the spirit of partnerships, listening and practical cooperation.” For his part, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Political and Economic Diplomacy Affairs Advisor, Workalemahu Desta said the mining sector serves as a fundamental driver for Ethiopia’s economic diversification, job creation, and foreign exchange generation.   “Our economic diplomacy therefore focuses on attracting European companies to invest in the mineral sector in Ethiopia,” he added. Pointing to the country's strategic location, expanding domestic market, and continuous reforms, the Advisor concluded with a direct call to action: “We therefore encourage European companies and investors to explore the opportunities available in the Ethiopian mining sector and establish partnerships with Ethiopian public and private sectors.”