Addis Ababa, February 20, 2026 (ENA) –Ethio telecom has officially launched teleStream, a cutting-edge internet-based streaming platform designed to transform Ethiopia’s digital and media landscape. The platform was unveiled on Thursday evening at Science Museum, marking a major milestone in the company’s ambitious corporate roadmap, “Next Horizon Digital and Beyond 2028.” Speaking at the launch ceremony, Ethio telecom CEO, Frehiwot Tamiru emphasized that teleStream is positioned as a comprehensive national digital content platform that goes far beyond entertainment. “It goes beyond mere entertainment,” Frehiwot said. “We are building a massive platform that allows the education and health sectors, as well as various institutions, to easily digitize and market their offerings,” according to the CEO. Frehiwot noted that teleStream is designed to empower key sectors including education, healthcare, tourism, cultural heritage, as well as governmental and non-governmental institutions. The platform enables these sectors to seamlessly digitize, distribute, and monetize their products and services at scale. At its core, teleStream functions as a dynamic digital ecosystem for producers, media organizations, and creative industry professionals. It offers a centralized space where ideas can be transformed into high-quality digital content capable of reaching millions of users nationwide and beyond. While many institutions already distribute content through various online channels, Frehiwot noted that teleStream differentiates itself by providing integrated, scalable infrastructure that enhances visibility, accessibility, and commercial opportunities. The platform places particular emphasis on supporting universities and academic institutions, the tourism sector, cultural and heritage organizations, government and non-government entities, as well as private enterprises and innovators. By bridging technology with creativity and institutional needs, teleStream is positioned as a catalyst for national digital growth—strengthening content production, expanding audience reach, and unlocking new economic opportunities in Ethiopia’s rapidly evolving digital economy. The launching ceremony brought together prominent figures from the creative industry, entertainers, heads of media institutions, and other invited dignitaries, the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA) reported from the scene.

Addis Ababa, February 20, 2026 (ENA) –Ethio telecom has officially launched teleStream, a cutting-edge internet-based streaming platform poised to revolutionize Ethiopia’s media and entertainment sector. Announced this evening at Science Museum, the launch marks a significant milestone in the company’s ambitious corporate roadmap, “Next Horizon Digital and Beyond 2028.” The initiative underscores Ethio telecom’s commitment to accelerating digital inclusion and driving sustainable national economic growth. A Game-Changer for Digital Entertainment TeleStream delivers more than 60 live television channels and over 350 video-on-demand titles, powered by Ethio telecom’s advanced fiber and telecloud infrastructure. Utilizing high-speed fiber, 4G, and 5G technologies, the platform guarantees low-latency, high-definition streaming — eliminating the need for satellite dishes and transforming how Ethiopian households access entertainment. The service is expected to redefine digital lifestyles across the country by modernizing media consumption and elevating the quality of content available to viewers. Empowering Users, Creators, and Institutions Designed with innovation and inclusivity at its core, teleStream integrates features that enhance user experience and support a digitally empowered economy. Stable fiber broadband connectivity ensures uninterrupted streaming, while built-in parental controls and educational programming make it a family-friendly solution. For content creators and broadcasters, teleStream offers a cost-effective, locally hosted distribution platform that expands audience reach and reduces reliance on expensive foreign satellite services. By strengthening domestic content hosting and distribution, the platform reinforces Ethiopia’s growing digital sovereignty. Businesses and institutions — including hotels — stand to benefit from streamlined entertainment solutions, while educational institutions can leverage the platform for digital libraries and remote learning resources, enriching teaching and learning experiences nationwide. Supporting Smart Cities and Digital Sovereignty Aligned with Ethiopia’s smart city vision, teleStream contributes to reducing visual pollution by limiting dependence on satellite dishes. Local content hosting further strengthens national data control and technological self-reliance. Infrastructure Upgrade to Power the Future In parallel with the launch, Ethio telecom has upgraded its fixed broadband infrastructure, replacing legacy copper networks with modern fiber systems. The introduction of “Fiber to the Room” service delivers ultra-fast, targeted connectivity tailored to individual user needs — setting a new benchmark for broadband performance in Ethiopia. To mark the launch, Ethio telecom is offering a special introductory discount for customers who bundle teleStream with fixed broadband packages. With teleStream, Ethio telecom is not only launching a platform — it is laying the foundation for Ethiopia’s next digital frontier.

Addis Ababa, 20 February 2026 —The Kingdom of Eswatini has commended Ethiopia for its strong track record in delivering large scale development projects, highlighting the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a landmark achievement that reflects national resolve and technical capability. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Eswatini’s Minister of Natural Resources and Energy, Prince Lonkhokhela Dlamini, praised Ethiopia’s momentum in executing transformative projects that are reshaping its economic landscape. Describing Ethiopia’s ability to implement mega projects through its own capacity as “impressive and exemplary,” he said the GERD stands as clear proof of what determined leadership and coordinated national effort can accomplish. According to the minister, the dam represents more than a national project. He said it offers a practical blueprint for African countries seeking greater self-reliance in infrastructure development and energy production. “The GERD not only serves Ethiopia but stands as a vital resource for neighboring nations,” he stated, adding that the project has the potential to strengthen regional cooperation through energy sharing.     Prince Dlamini emphasized that electricity generated from the dam could benefit countries across the continent, from southern to northern Africa, reinforcing economic integration and shared growth. Reflecting on his recent visit, he observed that Ethiopia has undergone visible transformation since his last trip eight years ago. He pointed to significant improvements in infrastructure, roads, and water supply systems as evidence of sustained development. “The progress observed is a clear reflection of effective leadership and serves as an inspiring example for other African nations,” he said.     In this regard, Prince Dlamini commended Ethiopia’s leadership in water sustainability and clean energy, noting that the country’s initiatives in renewable power generation and largescale afforestation demonstrate a forward-looking strategy. The minister further expressed Eswatini’s strong interest in deepening collaboration with Ethiopia in the energy sector and other development initiatives, underscoring the importance of African partnerships built on mutual benefit and shared ambition.

Addis Ababa, February 20, 2026 (ENA) –The President of the Pan-African Tourism Board (PATB), Mariam Lesian, has recognized Ethiopia as a leading model for tourism development in Africa, citing the country’s rapid growth, rich cultural heritage and expanding infrastructure as key drivers of its continental influence. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Lesian highlighted the nation’s unique attractions—from its globally renowned coffee heritage to its landscapes, museums, parks, and lakes—as strong draws for visitors. Lesian described Ethiopia as a rising tourism powerhouse driven by a strong cultural identity, stable aviation connectivity, and improving infrastructure. “When you come to Ethiopia, you get that appetite to come again because there are so many things to see,” she said. “It’s peaceful, it’s clean and the people are very friendly.” Ethiopia is widely recognized for its rich blend of natural beauty and historical depth, making its national parks, lakes, museums, and heritage sites central pillars of the country’s tourism appeal. From the iconic rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the ancient obelisks of Aksum, the country’s heritage sites showcase thousands of years of civilization and religious history, offering visitors profound insight into Ethiopia’s cultural legacy. Combined with its national parks, scenic lakes, and museums, these attractions create a diverse and compelling tourism portfolio that positions Ethiopia as one of Africa’s premier travel destinations. Lesian credited Ethiopian Airlines as a strategic pillar in Ethiopia’s tourism expansion, describing the carrier as a major force in positioning the country as a gateway to Africa. “You are very lucky to have a stable airline,” she emphasized. “It plays a major role in bringing people to Ethiopia and connecting the continent.” According to her, aviation stability combined with strong cultural branding gives Ethiopia a competitive edge in Africa’s tourism market. Ethiopian Airlines, the national flag carrier founded in 1945, has grown into one of Africa’s most successful and reliable airlines, operating an extensive network of domestic, regional, and international routes. With a modern fleet of Boeing and Airbus aircraft, the airline maintains high standards of safety, reliability, and passenger comfort. By transporting millions of passengers annually, the airline plays a central role in supporting Ethiopia’s hospitality sector, national parks, heritage sites, and cultural tourism, reinforcing its strategic importance in the country’s tourism expansion. Lesian further underscored that Ethiopia’s strong embrace of its heritage—from traditional attire and music to the globally recognized coffee ceremony—remains a defining feature of its tourism success. Ethiopia’s tourism appeal is deeply rooted in its rich cultural heritage, which continues to shape the visitor experience. The country has maintained a strong and visible connection to its traditions, spanning centuries of history, art, and daily practices, she added. “You walk everywhere, you smell the aroma of the coffee. You hear Ethiopian songs. People proudly wear their cultural attire,” she said. “They are really embracing their culture.” She noted that this visible and authentic cultural expression creates a memorable visitor experience and strengthens Ethiopia’s international image. Commending Ethiopia’s strides, Lesian argued that Africa’s tourism industry remains constrained by movement restrictions and underdeveloped transport networks. “We must open our borders for intra-Africa tourism,” Lesian urged. “For inter-Africa tourism, we should release the visas. Free movement will boost trade, tourism and economic integration.” She called for immediate and decisive action from African leaders. Lesian emphasized that sustainable tourism is not only a cultural asset but also a powerful economic engine capable of strengthening GDP, creating jobs, and enhancing financial stability across the continent. However, she cautioned that many African countries still rely too heavily on limited tourism models such as ecotourism and beach tourism. “We must diversify,” she stressed. “Africa has immense cultural and heritage wealth. Cultural tourism, medical tourism and heritage tourism are underutilized but highly attractive.”

Addis Ababa, 20 February 2026 —The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) stands as a shining example of African capability and a remarkable continental development achievement, renowned economist and public policy expert Dr. Ogho Okiti said. Constructed on the Abay River in Ethiopia, the GERD is the largest hydroelectric power project in Africa. Since its launch in 2011, the project has been financed through domestic resource mobilization, including public contributions, bond sales, and government funding. Beyond its national significance, the GERD is envisioned as a transformative regional energy initiative aimed at expanding electricity access, promoting clean energy, and strengthening regional power interconnection. Dr. Okiti, who also serves as a senior official at Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Finance, noted that the GERD represents a living testament to what Africans can accomplish through determination and self-reliance. He emphasized that the unwavering commitment demonstrated by Ethiopians in successfully advancing the construction of the dam through domestic capacity will remain an unforgettable chapter in Africa’s history. “For the Ethiopians themselves to mobilize the resources to complete that dam was fantastic, unique and unprecedented,” he noted. According to the expert, the active and broad-based participation of Ethiopians in the realization of the GERD has been both inspiring and exemplary, proving that Africans can mobilize their own resources to execute mega projects of continental significance. Dr. Okiti further stated that Ethiopia’s resounding development achievement—realized through strong public mobilization—has helped reshape Africa’s future development and growth strategies.     He underscored that the success of the GERD clearly reflects the strong bond of trust and cooperation between the Ethiopian government and its people, demonstrated in practice through the implementation of a massive continental project. “It signals that people trust the government to deliver, that citizens can directly contribute, and that resources required can also be found domestically — not every time relying on debt or aid.” The project, he added, has reinforced Ethiopia’s unity and practically confirmed that African nations can undertake and complete large-scale continental projects without overreliance on external loans and aid. The success of the GERD, he said, serves as a model for achieving broader continental development goals. Moreover, the dam is an important indicator of the need to expand continental economic integration and partnerships by strengthening cooperation across Africa. Looking ahead, Dr. Okiti stressed that African countries are expected to work collaboratively to enhance trade and investment ties in order to realize shared continental development agendas. The GERD, he concluded, exemplifies collective resolve and solidarity in fulfilling Africa’s development aspirations by fostering regional energy connectivity across the continent.

Addis Ababa, 20 February 2026 — Ethiopia and Italy have pledged to strengthen trade and investment cooperation as the Ethio-Italy Coffee Business Forum convened here on Thursday, bringing together exporters, industry leaders and policymakers to advance collaboration in the coffee sector. The forum, reported by Agenzia Nova, assembled Ethiopian coffee exporters and Italian industry representatives to expand market access, reinforce commercial ties and boost investment across Ethiopia’s coffee value chain. Organized by BonelliErede in collaboration with the Ethiopian Embassy in Rome, the Ethiopian Coffee Association and Confindustria Assafrica & Mediterraneo, the event provided a platform for Ethiopian producers to showcase their products and explore new partnerships in one of Europe’s most strategic coffee markets. Speaking to Agenzia Nova on the sidelines of the event, Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Italy, Demitu Hambisa, said Ethiopian exporters are actively promoting their products to create a larger market presence in Italy. “Coffee is one of our major export products, with the highest quality, and with our strong brand, we have a large market. Wherever there is a market opportunity, we are ready to export. We have potential, we have quality coffee, and our businessmen are ready to bring it to all the countries where it is needed,” the ambassador said. Ambassador Demitu noted that Ethiopia’s coffee production is steadily expanding, with estimates indicating output could reach a record level of over 11.6 million 60-kg bags in the 2025/26 market year. She added that in areas such as the Jimma Zone of Oromia Region, increased productivity is also supporting coffee-related tourism. In the 2024/25 fiscal year, coffee exports generated approximately 2.65 billion U.S. dollars, significantly contributing to Ethiopia’s trade balance. The ambassador also underscored that Ethiopia’s coffee sector development is linked to broader cooperation initiatives, including projects supported under Italy’s Mattei Plan. Addressing concerns related to European anti-deforestation regulations and climate change, she emphasized Ethiopia’s environmental commitment. “In the last six years, we have planted about 50 billion trees, so this contributes to climate control,” she stated, highlighting the country’s large-scale reforestation efforts. Massimiliano Fabian, board member of Confindustria Assafrica & Mediterraneo, described Ethiopia as a key player in meeting growing global coffee demand. “In the coffee sector, Ethiopia is one of the countries that can certainly best meet the world’s greatest coffee demand. Africa in general is a continent with the potential to do much more, and Ethiopia is certainly one of the countries that can contribute most to increasing the world’s coffee supply,” Fabian told Agenzia Nova. He noted that Ethiopia’s coffee is “an extremely interesting origin thanks to the intrinsic genetic diversity of the green bean,” making it particularly valued from an organoleptic standpoint. Though not considered a low-cost origin, he said it offers significant biodiversity and quantitative potential for buyers. Fabian further stressed that investments in the coffee sector can serve as a catalyst for broader development. “Coffee-producing countries have the potential for further strong development in Africa, and among these is certainly Ethiopia, which can contribute significantly and, at the same time, grow economically thanks to coffee. Economic growth is also correlated with social and environmental growth, therefore, in terms of all-round sustainability,” he explained. On his part, Gizat Worku, General Manager of the Ethiopian Coffee Exporters Association, acknowledged that exports to Italy have not grown rapidly over the past decade and emphasized the need to better understand the Italian market. “Our goal is to better understand the Italian market and the buyers’ perspective,” Gizat told Agenzia Nova. “We’re here to understand buyers’ interests and meet their needs. On the sellers’ side, we always listen to our customers: this is the heart of the program.” According to data presented at the forum, Italy is the third largest importer of green coffee globally, after the United States and Germany. It is also the second largest roasted coffee exporter in the European Union and the leading EU producer, accounting for about 25 percent of total EU production. Italy further leads global exports of roasted coffee to non-EU countries, holding a 32.9 percent share of the European total. Despite Italy’s major role in the global coffee industry, Ethiopia’s share of the Italian market remains relatively modest. In 2024/25, Ethiopia exported 16,294 tons of coffee to Italy, valued at 88.67 million U.S. dollars. However, Italy’s total green coffee imports during the same period reached approximately 655,000 tons, placing Ethiopia’s share at about 2.5 percent by volume. Gizat expressed optimism about future growth. “It will definitely grow. We are making up ground from the sector’s difficulties and are committed to resolving any issues so as to fully meet buyer demand. This is why we will sell more coffee to Italy,” he said. The forum is expected to pave the way for enhanced trade, deeper industrial cooperation and increased Italian investment in Ethiopia’s coffee value chain, further strengthening the longstanding economic ties between the two countries.

Addis Ababa, 19 February 2026 — Baroness Jane Ramsey, UK Trade Envoy to the Horn of Africa, held discussions with Semereta Sewasew and senior officials from the Ministry of Finance regarding Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reforms and opportunities for UK investment, according to the Ministry of Finance’s social media post. During the discussion, Semereta highlighted Ethiopia’s progress, including single-digit inflation, strengthened economic growth, improved tax revenues, increased export earnings, and higher foreign exchange reserves, achieved through comprehensive fiscal, monetary, and financial sector reforms. Baroness Ramsey acknowledged these achievements, noting reforms that facilitated support from the World Bank and agreements with Gridworks to advance green energy transmission, followed by the Tulu Kapi gold mining project. Discussions also covered key infrastructure initiatives, including the new Bishoftu International Airport, which has attracted substantial interest from UK companies in aviation, mining, logistics, and related services. The need to enhance customs operations to facilitate trade was also emphasized. Semereta outlined measures to strengthen corporate governance, manage state-owned enterprise debt, and engage investors through government–private sector dialogue platforms. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to close coordination to promote a transparent and investor-friendly environment, encouraging increased UK participation in Ethiopia’s strategic infrastructure and investment projects.

Addis Ababa, February 19, 2026 (ENA) –Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has conducted an extensive inspection tour of key development projects across the three Wollega zones in the Oromia region, highlighting ongoing progress in agro-industry, tourism, and rural transformation initiatives. In a statement shared on social media, Office of the Prime Minister said the premier “continued reviewing key development initiatives across the Wollega zones today, emphasizing progress in agro-industry, tourism, and rural transformation.” During the visit, the Prime Minister toured the Gibe Dedesa Farmers’ Cooperative Union’s modern flour mill, a facility designed to strengthen agricultural value chains and create employment opportunities for local communities. According to the Office, the project is enhancing value addition in the agricultural sector while expanding job creation through agro-processing. Abiy also launched construction of the Busa Gonofa Integrated Food Industry, a large-scale soybean processing facility expected to boost agro-industrial capacity and provide greater market access and support for farmers in the region. In the tourism sector, the Prime Minister reviewed progress on the Sorga Eco Lodge project, which aims to harness the area’s eco-tourism potential while generating local employment opportunities. The Office noted that the lodge is set to contribute to sustainable tourism development in Wollega. Additionally, the Prime Minister assessed the implementation of the Rural Corridors Program in Mede Jalela kebele. The initiative focuses on improving rural livelihoods through expanded access to renewable energy and modern infrastructure, with the goal of raising living standards in underserved communities. “Together, these initiatives reflect sustained economic growth and community-centered development across Oromia,” the Office of the Prime Minister emphasized. The inspection tour forms part of the government’s broader efforts to accelerate inclusive development and ensure that economic progress translates into tangible benefits for communities at the grassroots level.

Addis Ababa, February 19, 2026 (ENA) –Emphasizing the growing potential of Ethiopia, United Nations Global Compact CEO and Executive Director Sando Ojambo said the economy seems to be booming because of the enabling environment created in the country. Local private sector engagement is helping the economy to boom, she added, pointing at recent liberalizations in banking and telecommunications. “We have seen the liberalization of a couple of things. We have seen it in banking and telecommunications. So it looks like there is very strong engagement and good environment for private sector,” the CEO noted. Ojambo further underscored the vital role of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in promoting economic growth of the country. According to her, the engagement of young people and women in SMEs are key contributors to sustainable development in Ethiopia. The creation of favorable environment has been playing a critical role for the growth of private sector, she stressed. The CEO, who has recently visited Addis Ababa, observed the significant development of the city, saying that there is lots of growth in the city. “I've been in Addis a couple of times. I have to say there is lots of growth in the city, obviously booming, from real estate to restaurants to other things. I mean the economy seems to be booming.” In addition to Ethiopia, Ojambo noted that many of the world’s fastest-growing economies are in Africa, reflecting a vibrant and expanding private sector. Underlining the importance of engaging with Africa's burgeoning private sector, she called for fostering investment opportunities, mobilizing domestic capital, and enabling Africans to invest more within their own continent. The CEO mentioned the prevalent “risk perception’’ surrounding Africa, often labeled as un-investable. However, she argued that statistics tell a different story, emphasizing the need to shift this narrative by de-risking investments through patient and domestic capital. She highlighted the key investment opportunities in sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and digital jobs, particularly pointing to Africa's youthful population as a significant asset. The CEO, expressing optimism about the political and business leadership in Africa, finally called for a collective movement away from dependency, noting that it is time for Africa to prioritize self-investment.

Addis Ababa, February 19, 2026 (ENA) – Urgent reform of the United Nations system and comprehensive debt relief for African countries are essential to the continent’s development and global fairness, Angola's Permanent Representative to the UN, Francisco José da Cruz, said. The Permanent Representative stressed that reform of the UN, particularly the Security Council, is long overdue. While Africa now represents 54 member states at the UN, it remains without permanent representation in the Security Council. “Africa is the only continent which is not represented in the permanent seat category. This is a historical injustice that must be corrected,” he noted. Citing Africa’s common position under the Ezulwini Consensus and the 2005 Sirte Declaration, Francisco José da Cruz firmly reiterated the continent’s demand for two permanent seats with veto power and two additional non-permanent seats on the Security Council. “We represent the largest bloc at the UN. If we stand united and clear about our strategy, we can make a real difference,” he said, urging African countries to continue speaking with one voice in multilateral forums.     Moreover, Francisco José da Cruz highlighted the pressing need to reform the international financial architecture, warning that Africa’s growing debt burden is severely limiting its development prospects. “The burden of debt is undermining our capability of advancing the development agenda. The way we have access to financing is not in a preferable condition, and at the end we have to pay heavily for it.” He cautioned that without meaningful debt relief and improved access to financing on more favorable terms, achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) will remain out of reach. “As long as we cannot address the debt and financing issue, it will be very difficult to accomplish the development goals and truly leave no one behind,” the Permanent Representative emphasized. He argued that achieving sustainable development requires a dual approach: Reforming global financing systems to ensure fairer access to capital, and strengthening internal resource mobilization. While advocating for more equitable international financial structures, Francisco José da Cruz said that African countries can undertake transformative projects through domestic efforts, highlighting Ethiopia’s financing of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. “If Ethiopia did it, other African countries can also mobilize internal resources for transformative infrastructure projects,” he noted. He urged African nations to adopt a pragmatic, step-by-step approach to continental integration. Regional integration, according to him, remains key to accelerating development. The Permanent Representative finally remarked that unity among African nations remains critical in pushing forward both UN reform and financial restructuring. “We can only advance our interests if we stand together, stronger and more united,” he said.

Addis Ababa, February 19, 2026 (ENA) – The national initiative to modernize the lives of farmers through the Rural Corridors Program is gaining momentum across the country, according to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Commenting on the progress of the Mede Jalela kebele Rural Corridors Program in East Wellega zone of Oromia Region today, he said the project is "creating a sustainable and dignified living environment for the community." The transformation in the kebele includes modern solar power, biogas systems, livestock pens, bathrooms, and landscaped green spaces, he added. The PM emphasized that this broader "initiative to transform the lives of our farmers through the Rural Corridors Program is advancing nationwide," marking a shift toward integrated and climate-resilient rural development.

Addis Ababa, February 19, 2026 (ENA) –The construction of the Sorga Eco Lodge, a landmark project situated on the serene shores of Sorga Lake, is advancing with remarkable momentum, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said. Located a mere 6 kilometers from Nekemte city and spanning 14 hectares, the project represents a significant stride in the nation’s commitment to expanding its tourism footprint while fostering local economic vitality. In a social media post regarding the project’s progress, PM Abiy Ahmed said "…, the lodge is designed to preserve the local environment while creating jobs for skilled professionals in construction and hospitality. It will support the surrounding community and promote sustainable tourism in the region." The lodge is envisioned as a sanctuary that harmonizes modern hospitality with environmental stewardship.

Addis Ababa, February 19, 2026 (ENA) – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today laid the foundation stone for the construction of the Busa Gonofa Integrated Food Industry.     The project once completed will have a processing capacity of 2,000 tons of maize and 120 tons of soy bean per day. ‘‘the Busa Gonofa Integrated Food Industry for which we have launched the construction will be a modern facility for processing maize and soy bean flour, along with 14 other maize-based products.’’ prime minister Abiy announced in his social media.     According to him, the project will also create jobs for over 6,500 permanent and contract employees and generate a wide market for local farmers, cooperatives, and private seed producers, enhancing the value chain and boosting the local economy.

Addis Ababa, February 19, 2026 (ENA) –Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has underscored what he described as a transformative shift in Ethiopia’s agricultural sector, emphasizing that farmers are increasingly benefiting beyond primary production. The Prime Minister stated that “our farmers are not only producing but also gaining value from their contributions,” signaling a broader push toward value addition and agro-industrial development. In a social media post regarding the sector's progress, PM Abiy pointed to the Gibe Dedesa Farmers’ Cooperative Union as a benchmark of success. “Established in 1996, the Gibe Dedesa Farmers’ Cooperative Union unites 207 primary cooperative societies under its umbrella,” PM Abiy noted, emphasizing the scale of the collective effort. The Union, which currently serves 167,000 farmers, has successfully transitioned its core mission. According to the Prime Minister, the organization “has expanded its role from providing agricultural inputs to enhancing the value of their produce.” A central achievement in this transition is the Union’s investment in industrial processing. “The union recently established a modern flour mill capable of producing 1,200 quintals of maize flour per day,” he shared. The Prime Minister further detailed that the facility, “built on 2.8 hectares, provides permanent and temporary work, creating significant opportunities for the local community.”

Addis Ababa, February 18, 2026 (ENA) –Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Nekemte city in Oromia region of Ethiopia is entering a new chapter of urban transformation as corridor development projects reshape the city’s infrastructure and appearance. The Prime Minister made the remarks following his visit to development projects in Nekemte, part of his broader tour of Wollega zones. “Nekemte is stepping into the future,” PM Abiy stated in a social media post after inspecting the ongoing corridor development works. According to the Prime Minister, the corridor development includes the construction of wide roads designed to accommodate pedestrians and cyclists, installation of underground electricity, telecommunications and water systems, as well as the implementation of smart traffic management infrastructure. The integrated urban development initiative is expected to enhance mobility, improve service delivery, and elevate the city’s overall aesthetic standard. Thousands of Nekemte residents warmly welcomed the Prime Minister during his visit, demonstrating strong public support for the city’s ongoing transformation efforts. The corridor development forms part of Ethiopia’s broader urban modernization agenda aimed at building inclusive, resilient, and smart cities across the country.

Addis Ababa, February 18, 2026 (ENA) –Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed praised the significant progress at the Arjo Didessa Irrigation Project, describing it as a transformative step for national agriculture and food security. During his visit to the site today, the Prime Minister observed the rapid advancements toward completing the large-scale infrastructure initiative. Reflecting on the visit, he stated, "Visited the Arjo Didessa Irrigation Project, and I was impressed by the progress." In a social media post, PM Abiy noted that the project is advancing steadily and nearing completion. "Once fully operational, it will transform agriculture, support the cultivation of various crops, strengthen our national food security efforts, and benefit thousands of households nationally," he said. He added, "I am confident that, with sustained effort, this project will deliver on its promise and uplift the surrounding communities."

Addis Ababa, February 18, 2026 (ENA) –Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh underscored the strategic importance of the newly inaugurated Arjo Coal Factory, describing it as a vital milestone in Ethiopia’s industrial journey. The deputy prime minister attended the opening ceremony, which drew local leaders, investors, and community members, officially launched domestic coal production aimed at reducing Ethiopia’s dependence on imports. In a message shared on his X page, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen highlighted the factory’s transformative potential. "This investment is more than the opening of a factory; it strengthens the foundation upon which a more resilient and self-sufficient economy will stand," he noted. He stressed the benefits of import substitution, saying, "By replacing imported coal with domestically produced coal, Ethiopia is reclaiming value that once left its borders." DPM Temesgen detailed the broader impact, "The effects will be significant: substantial job creation, revitalized local supply chains, and lower transportation and production costs for factories nationwide. With cheaper materials, Ethiopian businesses will be more competitive, leading to new opportunities for growth." "Lower input costs will enhance the competitiveness of Ethiopian industries and unlock new opportunities for growth. This achievement reflects our steady march toward economic self-reliance," he added. He further emphasized, "Each strategic project strengthens our national sovereignty, deepens our industrial capacity, and reduces vulnerability to external shocks. Step by step, sector by sector, Ethiopia is building an economy powered by its own resources and driven by its people." The government-private sector partnership behind the Arjo Coal Factory is expected to create substantial jobs, produce significant volumes of coal annually, and save millions in import costs. The facility will also support the cement and steel sectors while stimulating local economic growth. "Ethiopia is not just rising; it is shaping its future with confidence, resilience, and determination," DPM Temesgen concluded.

Addis Ababa, February 18, 2026 (ENA) – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed praised the significant progress at the Arjo Didessa Irrigation Project, describing it as a transformative step for national agriculture and food security. During his visit to the site today, the Prime Minister observed the rapid advancements toward completing the large-scale infrastructure initiative. Reflecting on the visit, he stated, "Visited the Arjo Didessa Irrigation Project, and I was impressed by the progress." In a social media post, PM Abiy noted that the project is advancing steadily and nearing completion. "Once fully operational, it will transform agriculture, support the cultivation of various crops, strengthen our national food security efforts, and benefit thousands of households nationally," he said. He added, "I am confident that, with sustained effort, this project will deliver on its promise and uplift the surrounding communities."

Addis Ababa, February 18, 2026 (ENA) – East African Development Bank (EADB) Acting Director General Bernard Mono has lauded the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a proud continental initiative strengthening regional energy cooperation and advancing Africa’s collective drive toward power self-sufficiency and industrial growth. In an exclusive interview with ENA on the sidelines of the African Union Summit, Mono highlighted the significance of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), describing it as a proud continental initiative that strengthens Africa’s path toward energy self-sufficiency. “I’ve heard of that — a proud initiative by our nations.” He stressed that power generation is fundamental to industrialization and manufacturing across the continent. He said the project also brings to mind the Mwalimu Nyerere Dam which undertaken by Tanzania. “You can’t industrialize if you don’t have power. These initiatives are helpful to make sure that our countries are self-sustaining in power generation. They are tools and catalysts for development.” Mono expressing hope that more African nations will pursue similar initiatives to ensure reliable electricity supply for economic transformation. Regarding Addis Ababa's transformation, Mono highlighted visible transformation and stressed the need for African nations to finance their own development through well-capitalized regional institutions. “I’ve seen the roads. I’ve seen a glowing city. So much construction going on — it shows something right is happening in this country.” He said such investments signal strong political commitment to economic transformation and industrialization. Regarding African financial sovereignty, he argued that Africa must strengthen and capitalize its own development finance institutions to reduce dependency on external financing and reshape the narrative around investment risk on the continent. “We are judged with an eye that does not fully reflect our reality. That is why having homegrown institutions that are well capitalized and delivering at scale is very important.” According to him, African institutions should assess risk based on on-the-ground knowledge rather than external perceptions. “Some people assess risk based on what they read in newspapers or what they Google. But here, we know. The reality is that risk in Africa is perceived risk, not real risk.” He called on governments, investors, and citizens to believe in African institutions — including national development banks — as engines of transformation. Mono linked financial sovereignty to regional integration and the success of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), noting that Africa must finance its own producers if it is to trade effectively within the continent. He emphasized collaboration among African development finance institutions — including EADB and other regional banks — to scale up financing for agriculture, manufacturing, SMEs, and infrastructure. He stressed that Africa must trust its institutions and work together to deepen economic integration and support development from within. “If Ethiopia has excess wheat, why should we import from outside Africa? Let us finance our farmers and manufacturers so we trade among ourselves.” He further said that, “If we are not producing, we continue importing from outside Africa. But if we finance manufacturers and farmers so that they produce quality products, why not import and export within Africa?” East African Development Bank (EADB) is a development financier supporting infrastructure, agriculture, social sectors, and SME growth in Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Uganda.

Addis Ababa, February 18, 2026 (ENA) – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has said Arjo coal processing factory will serve as a cornerstone in strengthening Ethiopia’s industrial base and accelerating its push toward economic self-reliance. The premier stressed the factory’s strategic value in expanding domestic production capacity and reducing reliance on imported construction materials. He noted that the facility plays a decisive role in supplying essential raw materials for large scale infrastructure and manufacturing projects across the country. In a message shared on social media, the Prime Minister described the plant as a critical component of Ethiopia’s industrial transformation agenda, stating that it supports national efforts to build a resilient and competitive economy.     “The Arjo Stone Crushing Factory plays a vital role in Ethiopia’s industrial development, addressing the domestic demand for crushed stone that would otherwise need to be imported,” PM Abiy said. He stressed that the factory is not only meeting local demand but also sustaining core sectors of the economy by ensuring a steady supply of inputs for construction and heavy industry. “It supplies essential raw materials to key industries, including cement, iron, and construction, supporting the country’s growth,” the Prime Minister stated. PM Abiy further pointed out that the project reflects Ethiopia’s broader vision of building a modern and competitive industrial base anchored in technology and environmental stewardship. “This project also demonstrates how Ethiopia can advance industrial development by leveraging modern technology while ensuring environmental protection,” he concluded.