Addis Ababa, November 14, 2026 (ENA)— The successful execution of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has amply demonstrated the nation's capacity to overcome challenges and bring to fruition its water development projects, Water and Energy Minister Habtamu Itefa told ENA. The Minister added that any future development and infrastructure projects in Ethiopia will be significantly smoother and less burdensome than past endeavors. "Challenges for any further development projects in Ethiopia will be much simpler than that we passed through; because we built Africa’s biggest dam overcoming many difficulties," he stated. Habtamu noted that external pressure and attempts to prevent Ethiopia from utilizing its water resources for development have ironically strengthened national unity and determination. “The more pressure is exerted on Ethiopia from outside, the more united Ethiopians become,” he said, citing the construction of the GERD as evidence of the country's collective commitment to safeguarding its national interests.   The Minister criticized Egypt’s approach to the Nile River, noting that its continued opposition to Ethiopia’s water development projects disregards the contributions of upstream countries. Ethiopia, for instance, contributes over 86 percent of the Nile’s water. Similarly, the other upstream countries contributing to the river have the right to utilize their water resources for development. Habtamu argues that Egypt’s political rhetoric over the Nile is partly intended to divert public attention from domestic challenges and create the impression that its government is protecting national interests. However, the truth is that Ethiopia’s development projects are not intended and do no harm to downstream countries. On the contrary, the GERD for example provides benefits to both Sudan and Egypt. Among the benefits he mentioned improved water regulation, increased water availability during dry seasons, and reduced evaporation losses compared with the Aswan High Dam.   The Minister reiterated that Ethiopia remains committed to utilizing its natural resources for development while respecting the interests of other countries. Recall that Ethiopia signed the 2015 Declaration of Principles on the GERD with Egypt and Sudan to exchange information and cooperation during the dam's construction and filling process. On the other hand, Egypt had undertaken several water development projects without adequately considering Ethiopia's interests, including the construction of the Aswan High Dam and other water-transfer schemes, Habtamu elaborated. The Water Minister insisted that Egypt abandon such unilateral approaches to Nile water development and engage Ethiopia and all other Nile Basin countries through meaningful negotiations and cooperation based on mutual understanding, compromise and the recognition of the legitimate development interests of all Nile Basin countries. He urged Egypt to move beyond opposing Ethiopia's development initiatives and instead participate in joint water development projects across the Nile Basin.   Furthermore, Habtamu advised Egypt to re-evaluate domestic water consumption policies, pointing to water intensive agricultural practices such as extensive rice and sugarcane cultivation, as well as water diversion projects directed toward desert areas like the Toshka Valley and the Sinai Peninsula, rather than placing sole focus on upstream development. Egypt needs to improve its water management practices, including adopting modern irrigation technologies and reconsidering water-intensive agricultural activities, he said.

Addis Ababa, November 14, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia generated 1.16 billion USD in revenue from the export of 167,800 tons of coffee during the first four months of the 2026/27 fiscal year, the Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority (ECTA) announced. The earnings, recorded between July and October 2026, represent an increase of 157.2 million USD in revenue and 24,600 tons in export volume compared with the same period of the previous fiscal year. The latest performance builds on the strong results recorded during the first quarter, when Ethiopia earned 878.52 million USD from the export of 131,069.51 tons of coffee, registering a 15 percent year-on-year increase in both export volume and earnings, according to the Authority. During the first quarter, the country had set a target of generating 1.033 billion USD from 144,433 tons of coffee exports. Accordingly, it achieved 85 percent of its revenue target and 91 percent of its volume target.   Saudi Arabia, Germany and China were the leading destinations for Ethiopian coffee during the quarter, generating 196.85 million USD, 136.69 million USD and 103 million USD in export earnings, respectively. The top 10 destination markets collectively accounted for 82 percent of Ethiopia's coffee export volume and foreign exchange earnings during the period. Exports to these markets also registered 19 percent growth in both volume and revenue compared with the same period of the previous fiscal year. The Authority attributed the sector's performance to improvements in coffee quality, technology-supported marketing systems and coordinated efforts among stakeholders. It also reaffirmed the government's commitment to further increasing coffee export volumes and earnings while expanding Ethiopia's presence in emerging international markets.

Addis Ababa, November 14, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia is calling for concrete global action and increased investment in Africa’s green future. Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos made the call in an interview with Türkiye’s TRT World One on One program on the sidelines of the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye, urged developed countries to translate climate commitments into tangible support for green infrastructure, industrialization and sustainable development across the continent. He further emphasized the need for meaningful outcomes at the current summit ahead of Ethiopia’s hosting of COP32 in 2027. The minister said Ethiopia’s immediate priority is to support the COP31 presidency and ensure successful negotiations that generate positive momentum for the next climate conference in Addis Ababa. Gedion said Ethiopia expects COP31 to deliver consensus and meaningful decisions across key negotiation tracks, particularly on climate adaptation, mitigation, implementation plans and other measures requiring operationalization. Addressing Africa’s climate priorities, he stressed that developed countries must demonstrate their commitment through concrete investments in green infrastructure, industrialization and a sustainable economic future for the continent.   Gedion noted that Ethiopia’s experience demonstrates that climate action can go hand in hand with economic growth, creating jobs, improving livelihoods and expanding development opportunities. Through its nationwide tree-planting campaign, green mobility and sustainable urbanization initiatives, Ethiopia is demonstrating how environmental protection can also serve as a driver of economic transformation, he added. The Foreign Minister said Ethiopia intends to translate this commitment into concrete outcomes through climate negotiations, its action agenda and initiatives under its COP32 presidency. He emphasized that the upcoming summit should go beyond declarations and pledges to advance the implementation of existing climate agreements and deliver the financing needed by developing countries. Gedion called for stronger political will and international cooperation, stressing the need to strengthen existing mechanisms, improve access to affordable capital, address credit-rating challenges and expand direct budgetary support and official development assistance. He also underscored the importance of advancing international cooperation under the Paris Agreement and other relevant legal instruments to ensure that climate commitments translate into meaningful action. Speaking on Ethiopia-Türkiye relations, Gedion described the partnership as strong and historic, founded on longstanding ties, mutual understanding and growing cooperation between the two countries and their peoples. He further encouraged Turkish businesses to expand their investments in Ethiopia, particularly in hospitality, manufacturing and construction, noting that Turkish companies could make significant contributions to Ethiopia’s growing economy. He said greater private-sector engagement would create mutually beneficial opportunities and further strengthen the economic partnership between the two countries.

Addis Ababa, November 13, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s Minister of Finance and COP32 Chief Negotiator, Fitsum Assefa, held discussions with French Development Agency (AFD) Chief Executive Officer Christophe Lecourtier on the sidelines of COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye. The discussions focused on strengthening the development partnership between Ethiopia and the French Development Agency and exploring additional areas of collaboration in connection with Ethiopia’s preparations to host COP32 in 2027.   In a separate engagement on the sidelines of COP31, Fitsum also held bilateral talks with UNDP Administrator Alexander De Croo. The meeting provided an opportunity to exchange views on Ethiopia’s longstanding cooperation with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in climate action and sustainable development. Discussions focused on climate finance, investment, resilience and ongoing efforts to support the implementation of Ethiopia’s climate and development priorities.   The two sides also explored opportunities to further expand their cooperation, ENA learned. The engagements underscore Ethiopia’s efforts to deepen partnerships with international development institutions, mobilize climate finance and strengthen international cooperation in support of its climate ambitions ahead of hosting COP32 in 2027.

Addis Ababa, November 13, 2026 (ENA)—The Green Legacy Initiative stands as a testament to Ethiopia’s commitment to combating climate change through large-scale afforestation, environmental conservation and sustainable development, Press Secretary for Office of the Prime Minister (PMO) Billene Seyoum said. Speaking at a briefing on Ethiopia’s participation in the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye, Billene highlighted the country’s progress in environmental protection, renewable energy expansion and preparations to host COP32 in 2027. She disclosed that Ethiopia has planted more than 56 billion seedlings over the past eight years under the Green Legacy Initiative. The Press Secretary described this the flagship national programme as a major contribution to global efforts to mitigate climate change and restore degraded ecosystems.   Billene stressed, however, that the initiative’s success should not be measured by the number of seedlings planted alone, but also by their survival, continued care and protection to ensure lasting environmental benefits. She called for broader public participation in environmental conservation, emphasizing that nurturing and protecting planted trees must become a shared responsibility across all sections of society. She also recalled Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s repeated calls for citizens to take an active role in caring for planted trees to maximize their long-term environmental and economic benefits. Turning to Ethiopia’s clean energy transition, Billene highlighted the country's expanding investments in hydropower, wind and solar energy to meet growing domestic electricity demand while strengthening its capacity to supply power to regional markets. She cited ongoing wind and solar projects as evidence of Ethiopia’s efforts to diversify its renewable energy mix and advance a sustainable energy future.   The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), she added, represents a major milestone in the country's renewable energy ambitions and electricity generation capacity. The landmark project will also be showcased at the Ethiopian Pavilion during COP31, she pointed out. Billene underscored that Ethiopia’s investments in renewable energy, afforestation and environmental protection go beyond domestic development priorities, contributing to broader international efforts to address climate change and promote sustainable development.   The briefing also highlighted Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s engagements at COP31, Ethiopia’s preparations to host COP32 in 2027, and the country's plans to present its development achievements and climate action initiatives to the international community.

Addis Ababa, November 13, 2026 (ENA)— Minister of National Strategy Bereket Fesehatsion underscored the need to strengthen Africa’s early warning systems, improve access to climate information and mobilize sustainable financing. The minister made the remarks at a high-level event on Accelerating Africa's Early Warnings and Resilience to Multi-Hazards held on the sidelines of COP31. He emphasized the importance of accelerating early warning systems across the continent and translating forecasts into early action. He also highlighted the need to strengthen preparedness and ensure that climate information is more accessible to support timely responses to climate-related hazards.   Furthermore, the minister stressed the importance of mobilizing sustainable financing to strengthen early warning capabilities and protect vulnerable communities from climate-related hazards. The discussions at the event focused on accelerating Africa’s early warning systems and strengthening resilience to multiple hazards.

Addis Ababa, November 13, 2026 (ENA)— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed reaffirmed his government's commitment to addressing Ethiopia's housing challenges, pledging to deliver on its promise to build houses within five years. In a statement shared on his social media channel, the Prime Minister said the government is working tirelessly, day and night, to translate the commitment into reality. He acknowledged the significant housing challenges facing citizens, stressing that access to decent and affordable homes is not merely a development target but a fundamental responsibility to the people.   “Our focus remains on delivering tangible results, easing the housing burden on our people and creating better living conditions for families across the country,” he underscored. The Prime Minister emphasized that the government's efforts are focused on turning its housing pledge into concrete results.   The Premier also renewed his government’s commitment to improving living conditions and expanding access to affordable housing for families across the country.

Addis Ababa, November 13, 2026 (ENA)— French and Danish Defense Attachés underscored Ethiopia’s legitimate interest in Red Sea access and its potential role in safeguarding maritime security and combating terrorism in the strategically important Horn of Africa. Speaking to ENA, the defense attachés also said as a regional power, Ethiopia should get involved in mechanisms that can provide global security in the Horn of Africa. French Defense Attaché Colonel Damien Cypryk said Ethiopia’s aspiration for access to the Red Sea is legitimate, given its importance to the country's development and stability.   “Access to the Red Sea for Ethiopia is a perfectly legitimate act because it is a question of development and stability,” he stated. Currently, Ethiopia is actively pursuing permanent access to the Red Sea, citing its geographical, historical and economic circumstances. The country’s geographical proximity to the Red Sea, together with its historical links to the region’s ports, has remained central to its push for securing a sovereign sea outlet. Cypryk underscored the strategic importance of the Red Sea, the Bab al-Mandab Strait, and the Horn of Africa, describing them as a vital corridor whose security has far-reaching implications beyond the region. He noted that developments in this strategically significant area could have repercussions across the African continent and the wider international community.   The defense attaché stressed that Ethiopia, as a regional power, has a legitimate role to play in regional security and should actively participate in mechanisms designed to safeguard peace and stability. “I am convinced that Ethiopia, as a regional power, is absolutely legitimate to contribute to regional security, and it should get involved in mechanisms that can provide security in the region,” he said. The French Defense Attaché further explained that France supports dialogue and negotiations as the appropriate means of addressing Ethiopia’s quest for sea access, noting that Paris, like many other countries, has strategic interests in the region and therefore promotes peace and stability. On his part, Danish Defense Attaché to Ethiopia Commander Anders Lakjer highlighted Ethiopia’s potential contribution to combating terrorism and addressing growing threats to maritime security in the region.   “Ethiopia can play a very important role in terms of fighting terrorism and also all the threats against maritime security in the area,” he told ENA. Lakjer called on countries capable of contributing to regional security to work together to strengthen maritime protection and counterterrorism efforts.

Addis Ababa, November 12, 2026 (ENA)— The newly established Nile and Red Sea Strategic Forum pledged to strengthen research, policy advocacy, and public engagement to advance Ethiopia’s strategic interests in the two vital waterways. Briefing journalists today, the forum’s Chief Executive Officer, Solomon Tefera, said the institution was established as a legally recognized body to strengthen Ethiopia’s strategic interests in the Nile and Red Sea.   Solomon said the forum aims to mobilize civil society, scholars, researchers, and the public to safeguard Ethiopia’s strategic interests in the two waters, which are vital to its economic development, regional stability, and geopolitical standing. He said protecting national interests requires coordinated efforts among the government, civil society, and the public, noting that civil society engagement in research, advocacy, and awareness creation remains insufficient. Solomon said Ethiopia’s interests in the two waterways extend beyond water resources and maritime access. He also explained that the two waters encompass economic development, political stability, regional peace, geopolitical interests, and Ethiopia’s international standing. To address existing gaps, the forum plans to conduct academic and policy research, organize conferences and policy dialogues, and promote diplomatic and public advocacy on Nile and Red Sea issues.   Solomon said the forum has outlined 12 objectives, focusing on research and diplomatic advocacy to safeguard Ethiopia’s interests in the Nile and Red Sea. The CEO further elaborated that the forum would promote the country’s access to a sea outlet, strengthen regional cooperation, expand public awareness, and support policy dialogue and strategic partnerships. It also seeks to strengthen research and advocacy on Ethiopia’s interests in the Abay (Blue Nile), including its benefits to the country and the importance of regional cooperation in utilizing shared water resources. Regarding maritime access, the forum aims to promote research and policy advocacy to help the international community understand the strategic significance of Ethiopia’s access to a sea outlet and its implications for the country and the wider region.   Solomon said the forum would bring together scholars, intellectuals, experts, and other stakeholders to develop research-based perspectives integrating the historical, legal, geopolitical, diplomatic, and economic dimensions of Ethiopia’s interests. He added that the institution intends to support diplomatic engagement and strategic partnerships with other countries through international cooperation and peaceful approaches to advance Ethiopia’s interests and strengthen regional relations.

Addis Ababa, November 12, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s renewable energy resources could strengthen the competitiveness of its textile, garment, and leather products in European markets as international buyers increasingly consider sustainability alongside production standards, Germany's Deputy Ambassador in Ethiopia, Ferdinand von Weyhe said. Addressing the 12th Africa Sourcing and Fashion Week (ASFW) in Addis Ababa today, the Ambassador stated that Ethiopia could promote products manufactured using renewable energy as a competitive advantage in attracting European buyers. According to him, German buying companies have expressed clear interest in sourcing more products from Ethiopia as international businesses seek to diversify their destinations and establish reliable supply networks.   Noting the fact that Ethiopia’s textile and garment exports to Germany and Europe remain small compared with established sourcing countries such as China, Vietnam, and Bangladesh, Ambassador Weyhe emphasized that the country needs to translate this interest into actual export growth. He highlighted the European Union’s Everything but Arms (EBA) arrangement which provides eligible products from beneficiary countries with duty-free and quota-free access to the EU market as an opportunity for Ethiopian textile, garment, and leather manufacturers.   The Ambassador, who noted the importance of meeting European quality and product standards as essential to attracting buyers, stated that consumers in the region also expect products entering their markets to comply with established requirements. In addition to standards, Ambassador Weyhe identified customs procedures and logistics as challenges previously raised by buyers and manufacturers, emphasizing the need to address such constraints to facilitate sourcing from Ethiopia. Moreover, he said that Germany supports Ethiopia’s textile, garment, and leather industries through development cooperation and maintains a pavilion at the ongoing exhibition, while also serving as a buyer of Ethiopian products in the sectors.   The 12th Africa Sourcing and Fashion Week (ASFW) that concludes on November 15, 2026 is an international trade platform that has brought together textile, apparel, leather, and fashion manufacturers, designers, suppliers, buyers, investors, and technology providers.

Addis Ababa, November 12, 2026 (ENA)— Algeria's participation in the Second African Political Parties Summit 2026 has provided opportunity for the National Building Movement party to learn from Ethiopia's experience and exchange knowledge with political leaders and government officials, the Algerian party member Jarrallah Abdelmonem said. The engagement could help transfer valuable experiences to Algeria while strengthening cooperation and communication among African political parties, he added. The Algerian party member emphasized that building bridges of cooperation among political parties would contribute to economic development and improve the well-being of African peoples. Praising Ethiopia’s development experience, Abdelmonem further stressed the importance of drawing lessons from it to advance economic and political development across Africa. The party member recalled that Ethiopia recorded economic growth of more than 9 percent last year, describing it as a significant achievement that reflects the country's economic transformation. Abdelmonem said that this approach is consistent with the vision of the Ethiopian Prime Minister and the government's Medemer philosophy. For his part, Ali Hashani, another National Building Movement member commended Ethiopia's development experience, describing it as a leading model for African countries. According to him, the delegation's visit to Addis Ababa provided an opportunity to witness the city's transformation, particularly in infrastructure development and economic projects. He added that what the delegation observed reflected Ethiopia's remarkable progress, stressing that "Ethiopia's experience remains a pioneering one." Hashani expressed hope that African countries would learn from Ethiopia's experience and follow its path toward achieving development and progress. Hashani further noted that the Ethiopian Prime Minister's remarks during the summit's opening ceremony demonstrated the existence of a long-term vision encompassing both economic and political development. The Prime Minister's presence at the opening ceremony gave the summit strong momentum, particularly through his emphasis on youth leadership development, he noted. The party member welcomed the proposal to strengthen young people's leadership capacities, describing it as particularly important given Africa's need for a new generation of leaders.

Addis Ababa, November 12, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia and the United Kingdom have discussed preparations for the 32nd UN Climate Change Conference (COP32), with a focus on strengthening climate cooperation and advancing Ethiopia’s priorities ahead of the global summit in 2027. The discussions took place on the sidelines of COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye, where Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and COP32 President-Designate, Gedion Timothewos, and Minister of Finance and COP32 Chief Negotiator, Fitsum Assefa, held bilateral talks with UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband. During the meeting, Gedion highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing climate action initiatives and stressed the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to address the growing threat of climate change. Foreign Secretary Miliband, meanwhile, reaffirmed the UK’s readiness to support Ethiopia’s priorities and preparations for COP32, signaling its commitment to strengthening cooperation with Ethiopia ahead of the landmark climate conference.   The engagement underscores Ethiopia’s efforts to build international partnerships and mobilize support as it prepares to host COP32 in 2027, providing a major platform to advance global climate action and amplify the priorities of developing countries, it was learned.

Addis Ababa, November 12, 2026 (ENA)— Former Prime Minister of Côte d’Ivoire and President of the Ivorian Popular Front (FPI), Pascal Affi N’Guessan, recognized Ethiopia’s quest for sovereign sea access as a legitimate national aspiration. Speaking to ENA in Addis Ababa, Affi N’Guessan said Ethiopia’s ambitions deserved recognition, expressing hope that outstanding issues could be addressed through solutions acceptable to all parties. His remarks come at a time when Ethiopia is actively pursuing permanent access to the Red Sea, citing its geographical, historical and economic circumstances.   The East African nation has repeatedly underscored that its quest for sea access is peaceful, emphasizing that the current status of being geographically landlocked should not remain an enduring constraint on its national development. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has particularly described Ethiopia’s pursuit of Red Sea access as an overdue national aspiration. “A population of over 130 million people cannot remain landlocked. A generation of today will not bequeath a geographically imprisoned nation to posterity,” he stressed. The country’s geographical proximity to the Red Sea, together with its historical links to the region’s ports, has remained central to its push for securing a sovereign sea outlet. Ethiopia historically administered the ports of Massawa and Assab and maintained naval capabilities before Eritrea's independence. Pascal Affi N’Guessan, who served as Côte d’Ivoire’s prime minister from 2000 to 2003, underscored that Ethiopia’s ambition to secure access to a seaport is legitimate. “I believe that the ambition of Ethiopia is legitimate, and we hope that these questions will find solutions acceptable to all parties, through good compromises that allow everyone to recognize that this is the path that enables the entire region to move forward,” he said. He emphasized that meaningful compromises and a spirit of cooperation were essential to ensuring that differing interests do not become obstacles to regional progress.   His message also highlights the broader significance of African-led solutions, mutual respect and cooperation in building lasting stability and advancing collective prosperity across the continent. Affi N’Guessan further said Ethiopia’s quest for sea access should be approached with an understanding of its broader geopolitical implications and the shared future of countries in the Horn of Africa. "Well, these are geopolitical questions very important, which necessitate capacities of dialogue, capacities of anticipation," he said. He noted that territorial, identity and geopolitical questions require the parties concerned to look beyond immediate interests and consider the future. "There are sometimes questions of identity, territorial, geopolitical order, that cannot regulate themselves unless the actors facing each other have a higher appreciation of the future," he stated.   Emphasizing the importance of African unity and shared development, he expressed hope that Ethiopia's ambition would be addressed through an understanding acceptable to all parties. "Africa can only develop in unity, and unity must also be unity in ideas, in the sharing of things. And so I believe that the ambition of Ethiopia is legitimate, and we hope that these questions will find solutions that are solutions acceptable for all parties, that are the result of good compromises allowing everyone to realize that it is this voice that allows the whole region to advance," he said.

Addis Ababa, November 11, 2026 (ENA)— Former Chairman of the American Bankers Association (ABA) and Detroit-based First Independence Bank Chairman and CEO, Kenneth Kelly hailed Ethiopia's rising potential to attract foreign capital and financial sector transformation. Speaking at a financial sector engagement in Addis Ababa today, Kelly said Ethiopia's evolving business environment and decision to open its banking sector to foreign investment offer significant opportunities for international investors and financial institutions. Held under the theme: “The Next Bank May Not Look Like a Bank: Digital Payments, Financial Inclusion, Bank-Fintech Partnerships, and AI,” the discussion included representatives of fintech companies, microfinance institutions, and telecommunications operators in Ethiopia.   Speaking at the occasion, Kelly said the engagement was intended to share experiences from the United States banking sector and explore ways to unlock Ethiopia's capital potential. He described Ethiopia's business environment as positive, citing the country's demographic potential and emerging investment opportunities. The business environment here is very positive, Kelly said. "I've looked at the demographics here in Ethiopia, and there's a lot of upside potential. For most economies, it's vital to ensure access to capital starts with small businesses to help drive broader economic growth." Kelly emphasized the importance of expanding access to finance, particularly for small businesses, noting that facilitating capital access for small enterprises is essential to stimulating economic growth. He also noted that Ethiopia's decision to open its banking sector to foreign investment presents new opportunities, while stressing the importance of establishing the necessary foundations to attract and realize investment. Drawing on the American experience, Kelly highlighted the role of specialized lending, microfinance, and small-business financing programs, including support provided through the US Small Business Administration, in helping enterprises access capital and grow. On his part, US Embassy Public Diplomacy Officer in Ethiopia, Jonathan Koehler, said the country's financial sector has been undergoing a significant period of transformation.   He noted that the opening of the banking sector to foreign investment, ongoing regulatory reforms, the expansion of digital financial services, and the growing roles of fintech companies and microfinance institutions are creating new opportunities to strengthen competition, broaden financial inclusion, attract investment, and promote economic growth. Koehler described the engagement as timely, emphasizing that the future of financial services extends beyond traditional banking institutions, with fintech companies, microfinance institutions, and telecommunications operators increasingly shaping how individuals and businesses access financial services. He also highlighted the extensive US experience in developing a diversified financial system, promoting innovation, supporting entrepreneurship, and expanding access to finance. Although financial systems operate within different institutional and regulatory frameworks, Koehler said exchanging experiences and lessons could help identify practical approaches relevant to Ethiopia's evolving financial landscape.

Addis Ababa, November 11, 2026 (ENA)— Head of communication and partnership at Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI) Emebet Techane said Ethiopia Venture Summit, and Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) Creates opportunity for startups and various businesses to connect Reginal and global business. The two events officially kicked off in Addis Ababa today, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, business leaders and development partners to strengthen Ethiopia’s entrepreneurship ecosystem and promote business growth. Speaking at the opening ceremony, EDI Head of Communications and Partnerships Emebet Techane said the Ethiopia Venture Summit focuses on connecting startups with regional and international investors, while GEW provides a broader platform for promoting innovation, entrepreneurship and business collaboration. “Global Entrepreneurship Week is more than just an event; it's a global movement celebrating the thinkers, doers, and innovators who turn ideas into reality,” she said. She noted that the events would provide opportunities for participants to engage in high-impact discussions, establish strategic partnerships and explore new sources of capital and business growth. “Over the coming days, we will hear from inspiring founders, engage in high-impact discussions, build strategic partnerships, and explore new capital and growth opportunities,” Emebet added. She further emphasized that the platforms would enable startups and established businesses to collaborate and build connections with regional and international business communities. GEW Ethiopia 2026 will run from November 11 to 30, featuring panel discussions, workshops, innovation challenges and networking sessions, organized in collaboration with the Entrepreneurship Development Institute. Mastercard Foundation Country Director in Ethiopia, Mefthe Tadesse, said entrepreneurship is an important pathway to creating dignified and fulfilling employment opportunities for young people. Through its Young Africa Works strategy, the Foundation aims to enable 30 million young people across Africa to access dignified and fulfilling work by 2030, with women accounting for 70 percent of the target. Ethiopia accounts for 10 million of the overall targets, she said. “Numbers alone are not our measure of success. What matters is whether young people can build livelihoods with dignity, whether entrepreneurs can move from survival to sustainability and growth, and whether growth creates opportunities for others,” she stated. Mefthe stressed the importance of ensuring that young people, particularly women, persons with disabilities, refugees and displaced people, have equitable access to entrepreneurship opportunities. Young people outside major urban centers, including Addis Ababa, should also have access to the networks, finance, markets and technologies needed to expand their businesses, she added. The Mastercard Foundation remains committed to working with Ethiopia's young people, government, private sector and development partners to strengthen the country's entrepreneurship ecosystem, she affirmed. Co-CEO and Co-Founder of Dream VC, Cindy Ai, also said ongoing reforms in Ethiopia's economy, foreign exchange system, monetary policy, financial services and capital markets are creating new opportunities for businesses. She cited the establishment of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange and the development of startup policy frameworks as important components of broader efforts to create new pathways for businesses to expand and access capital. The reforms are opening up opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and tap into emerging sources of investment, Ai added.

Addis Ababa, November 11, 2026 (ENA)— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed called for predictable climate finance that reaches vulnerable communities before disasters strike. The Prime Minister further urged the international community to translate climate commitments into timely, accessible and affordable support. Addressing the opening of the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Türkiye’s Mediterranean city of Antalya, PM Abiy underscored that climate action is not merely an environmental concern for Ethiopia but a fundamental part of its economic policy and development strategy. “In Ethiopia, climate action is economic policy,” he said, highlighting how recurring El Niño-related droughts and floods threaten agricultural production, displace families and prolong recovery, even after rainfall returns and floodwaters recede.   He stressed that Ethiopia is strengthening community-level preparedness and working with local governments to anticipate climate risks and protect livelihoods before disasters occur. Highlighting the country's broader climate vulnerability, the Premier noted that more than 90 percent of Ethiopia's electricity comes from hydropower, making rainfall patterns critical not only to domestic energy security but also to electricity supplies to neighboring countries. He also warned that rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns threaten the forests and agricultural landscapes that sustain Ethiopia's globally renowned Arabica coffee. The Prime Minister said Ethiopia's homegrown philosophy of Medemer guides its climate response by bringing communities, institutions and resources together around shared development objectives. Under the Green Legacy Initiative, millions of Ethiopians participate in annual tree-planting campaigns, with more than 56 billion seedlings planted to date, contributing to land restoration, forest expansion, job creation and improved livelihoods. “Planting is now a family habit,” he said, describing the initiative as a growing culture of environmental stewardship and responsibility toward future generations.   Ethiopia is also extending its environmental efforts into urban areas through flood protection measures, river rehabilitation and the development of green public spaces, including parks and walkways along riverbanks. On the energy front, PM Abiy highlighted the country's investments in wind, solar and geothermal power, alongside plans to explore nuclear energy, as part of a long-term strategy to diversify electricity sources and reduce economic vulnerability during dry seasons. He further emphasized the growing role of technology in climate resilience, noting that Ethiopia is using satellite data to monitor environmental conditions and artificial intelligence to improve weather forecasting and provide farmers with earlier warnings of extreme weather events. The country's Fayda digital identification (ID) system is also helping strengthen the delivery of support to vulnerable households. However, the Prime Minister stressed that early warnings must be backed by financing that enables communities to take timely protective measures. “Funding should be agreed in advance. It can then move at the speed of our forecasters, while there is still time to save lives,” he said. Turning to the global climate financing gap, Abiy called for stronger coordination between climate, development, trade and financial institutions, arguing that commitments made in international climate negotiations must be reflected in actual financing decisions. He noted that developing countries spend nearly one trillion US dollars annually on public debt interest, significantly constraining their capacity to invest in climate resilience, infrastructure and essential social services.   Referring to the financing discussions in Sevilla, he stressed that high borrowing costs undermine developing countries' ability to respond to climate challenges, calling for multilateral financial institutions to make financing more affordable. The Prime Minister also urged faster emissions reductions, warning that the growing cost of responding to climate-related damage leaves fewer resources available for education, healthcare and opportunities for young people. Highlighting Ethiopia's contribution to the global energy transition, he said the country has banned imports of petrol- and diesel-powered vehicles as it accelerates the shift toward electric mobility. He called on countries with the greatest historical responsibility for emissions and the financial capacity to act to lead with deeper emissions reductions during this decade. Looking ahead to Ethiopia's COP32 Presidency, Prime Minister Abiy said early action and predictable climate financing would be central to the country's priorities, particularly ensuring that resources are released when early warnings are issued and reach the most climate-vulnerable communities first. He urged countries to make their climate finance pledges clear and measurable, setting out three essential commitments: how much funding will be provided, when it will be delivered and under what terms. Such clarity, he said, would enable governments to plan their budgets, investors to make commitments and communities to prepare for climate risks.   Ethiopia, he added, will work closely with the COP31 Presidency to ensure a successful outcome in Türkiye and looks forward to welcoming the international community to Addis Ababa for COP32 in 2027. Concluding his remarks, the Prime Minister invoked the vulnerability of farmers to increasingly unpredictable weather patterns, delivering a powerful appeal for timely international solidarity. “Our farmers once trusted the seasons to arrive on time. Let us make sure our support does,” he said.

Addis Ababa, November 11, 2026 (ENA)— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held talks with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre on expanding bilateral cooperation, with particular emphasis on green development, renewable energy investment and Norway’s support for Ethiopia’s upcoming COP32 Presidency. The meeting took place alongside the COP31 Leaders’ Summit, where the two leaders explored opportunities to strengthen cooperation under Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative and encourage Norwegian investment in the country’s renewable energy sector.   Their discussions also covered broader bilateral relations and developments in the regional and international landscape, with both sides expressing interest in advancing practical areas of cooperation and deepening their partnership. The engagement highlights Ethiopia’s efforts to mobilize international partnerships, attract green investment and strengthen global cooperation as it prepares to host COP32 in Addis Ababa in November 2027.

Addis Ababa, November 11, 2026 (ENA)— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed met with the President of Finland, Alexander Stubb, to discuss strengthening bilateral ties and coordinating on critical international climate agendas. The meeting took place ahead of the COP31 Leaders’ Summit, serving as a follow-up to the dialogue the two leaders initiated during their previous encounter on the sidelines of the G20 Summit. Prime Minister wrote on X page that the discussion centered on a broad range of topics, including global peace and security developments as well as regional dynamics. The leaders reviewed the current international landscape and exchanged views on how to address shared challenges through diplomatic cooperation.   A significant portion of the conversation was dedicated to climate diplomacy, with specific focus on Finland’s support for Ethiopia’s upcoming COP32 Presidency. Both leaders emphasized the importance of this transition and expressed their commitment to advancing areas of shared understanding through continued and consistent engagement. The Prime Minister noted that the meeting was an essential step in maintaining the momentum of the partnership between Ethiopia and Finland, ensuring that both nations remain closely aligned on matters of mutual interest as they navigate complex global issues.

Addis Ababa, November 11, 2026 (ENA)— Tanzania’s Capital Markets Tribunal Chairperson, Ntemi Nimilwa Kilekamajenga, has expressed interest in Ethiopia’s experience in ensuring that agricultural commodities meet international market standards, citing the Ethiopian Commodity Exchange’s quality assessment practices and specialized academy as valuable institutional lessons. The Tanzanian delegation head told ENA that the delegation was particularly impressed by the Commodity Exchange’s extensive range of traded agricultural products and the academy which plays an important role in ensuring the quality of agricultural commodities destined for export.   He noted that Ethiopia trades a wider range of agricultural products than Tanzania, citing maize, which is not currently among the commodities traded through Tanzania’s commodity exchange, as one example. The delegation head identified the Ethiopian experience as an important lesson, particularly the need to consider expanding the range of agricultural products traded through Tanzania’s commodity exchange. Kilekamajenga said the academy established by the Ethiopian Commodity Exchange was a notable practice that a Tanzanian commodity exchange staff should visit Ethiopia and learn how the institution ensures exported agricultural products meet internationally required quality standards. He stated that Tanzania’s Ministry of Finance accompanying the delegation had also developed an interest in exploring ways to facilitate such a learning visit upon their return.   The delegation also gained firsthand insight into how the exchange applies its quality assurance system, particularly in assessing coffee destined for international markets, Eliad E. Mndeme, a Tanzanian lawyer and member of the delegation, said. He said the delegation was taken through the coffee assessment process, which involves evaluating its taste, aroma and preparation; and also had an opportunity to participate in testing the coffee. Mndeme said the quality assurance mechanism gives international buyers confidence that coffee traded through the exchange meets the required standards.   He also highlighted the financial benefits of the system, explaining that farmers who obtain quality certificates from the exchange can use them to secure bank loans as the certificates serve as tradable.

Addis Ababa, November 10, 2026 (ENA)— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Antalya, Türkiye, ahead of the COP31 Leaders’ Summit. The two sides discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations, advance cooperation on climate action and address regional issues of mutual interest. Upon his arrival in Antalya, the Prime Minister said: “I held a productive bilateral meeting with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of Türkiye. During our discussion, I congratulated him on the preparations for hosting COP31 and the efforts underway towards its successful delivery.”   In a statement posted on his X account, PM Abiy said the two leaders explored opportunities to further deepen the strong partnership between their countries, including cooperation as Ethiopia prepares to assume the COP32 Presidency in 2027. They also exchanged views on regional developments and issues of mutual interest, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and translating shared priorities into tangible progress. “Throughout our talks, we reaffirmed our shared commitment to advancing our partnership and making tangible progress on areas of common priority,” the Premier noted.   The meeting highlights the growing importance of Ethiopia-Türkiye cooperation as the two countries take on consecutive COP presidencies, with Türkiye hosting COP31 and Ethiopia preparing to welcome the global climate community to Addis Ababa for COP32, ENA learned.