Addis Ababa, May 30, 2026 —Ethiopia is looking to Israel’s Start-Up Nation model as it builds its own AI sector and strengthens technological cooperation. The relationship between Ethiopia and Israel stretches back thousands of years – to the days of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba – rooted in biblical tradition and strengthened over decades through diplomacy, migration, trade, and cultural exchange. Today, that relationship is increasingly being shaped by technology, investment, tourism, and innovation.   Speaking with The Jerusalem Post this week, Ethiopian Ambassador Tesfaye Yitayeh described a relationship that continues to deepen despite regional instability, war, and economic disruption across the Middle East. “The bilateral relationship between our two countries is very good,” Yitayeh told the Post. “I’m very much happy to be part of this process, and we work hard again to further strengthen this very good bilateral relationship for the benefit of our two peoples.” Modern relations between the two countries were formalized in 1956 with the establishment of embassies in Addis Ababa and Jerusalem. Early collaborations included Israeli assistance in military training and capacity-building in Ethiopia. These foundations laid the groundwork for the diverse partnership that is visible today. In recent years, Ethiopia has sought to position itself as one of Africa’s major emerging investment destinations, with Israeli companies increasingly active in agriculture, technology, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects. According to Yitayeh, one of the major developments over the past year was an official visit by President Isaac Herzog, as well as an investment forum held in Addis Ababa during Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar’s visit to Ethiopia last May. “Along with [Sa’ar], there were businesspeople, and the investment opportunities were presented to them by different Ethiopian government officials,” the ambassador explained. “They also had visits to show the opportunities on the ground for Israeli companies and investors.”   Israel in Ethiopia Israeli involvement in Ethiopia remains especially strong in agriculture, including horticulture, irrigation technologies, agro-processing, and coffee production. “Israelis are engaged in agriculture, especially high-value crops,” Yitayeh said. “Their best technologies, drip irrigation technologies, are being disseminated.”   He added that Israeli companies are also increasingly interested in Ethiopia’s digital economy, logistics sector, and infrastructure development projects, including a new major airport currently under construction southeast of Addis Ababa. “The Israelis are very much interested in the cybersecurity and digital aspect of this ultramodern and big airport,” he said. Agriculture and water management continue to stand at the center of Ethiopia’s interest in Israeli expertise. “You know, Israelis are good at using a scarce resource, that is water,” Yitayeh said. “Efficiently, effectively using water in terms of water management.” Though Ethiopia possesses far greater natural water resources than Israel, the ambassador said the country still has much to learn regarding efficiency, recycling, irrigation, and year-round agricultural production. “In the rainy season, there is plenty of water. In the dry season, there is a shortage,” he explained. “We need to produce agricultural products throughout the year. The missing element is water.” Israel’s MASHAV international development agency has played a significant role in helping Ethiopian agricultural development, particularly in avocado cultivation. “MASHAV has already trained a number of our agronomists and horticulturists,” Yitayeh said. “It played a very pivotal role in avocado development and cultivation. Now Ethiopia is able to export avocados to the European market.” Beyond agriculture, Ethiopia is increasingly looking toward Israel’s technology sector as a model for its own ambitions in artificial intelligence and innovation. Ethiopia looks to Israel’s technology sector “Israel calls itself a Start-Up Nation, and Ethiopia is also trying its own version of a start-up,” Yitayeh said. “But it is in the infant stage.” The ambassador revealed that Ethiopia has already established a national artificial intelligence center and is planning to open an AI-focused university in the coming years. “The government already gave due attention to artificial intelligence,” he said. “There is an artificial intelligence center which was established three or four years ago. “I hope, by next year or the year after, we will establish an artificial intelligence university so that our youngsters will get training,” he continued. “Hopefully, after five or six years, we will be able to work using AI in different economic sectors.” Yitayeh added that Ethiopia hopes to work closely with Israel in the field. “Israel is much advanced in using artificial intelligence,” he said. “So Ethiopia again will learn a lot in this regard as well.” Energy is another sector rapidly changing Ethiopia’s economic landscape. When the Post last spoke to Yitayeh, in January 2025, the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam had not yet officially opened. Since then, Ethiopia formally inaugurated the massive hydroelectric project on the Blue Nile, which the ambassador said is already transforming the country’s energy capacity and attracting foreign investment. “The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam alone adds more than 5,000 megawatts of electricity annually,” he told the Post. “One of the comparative advantages that Ethiopia has is its cheap energy supply.” The ambassador said the dam is already helping attract foreign manufacturers and investors to Ethiopia’s industrial parks. “We are seeing many companies from the Far East or elsewhere in the world coming and installing their production sites in Ethiopia,” he said. Ethiopia has also begun exporting electricity to neighboring countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Sudan, and Djibouti, with future supply plans extending to South Sudan and Somalia. “Ethiopia is in a position to be the electric powerhouse in the Horn of Africa or East Africa,” Yitayeh told the Post. At the same time, the ambassador acknowledged that the regional wars involving Israel and Iran have had a significant economic impact on Ethiopia. “The war has always played a very negative role in economic development and attracting investment,” he said. He specifically pointed to rising global oil prices and fertilizer shortages caused by the disruption in the region. “The price of fuel is skyrocketing,” he said. “It affected not only the investment flow, but the normal day-to-day life of the people.” Yitayeh noted that Ethiopia Airlines was forced to suspend flights to Israel for more than a month after Israeli airspace closures during the war with Iran, before quickly resuming service once flights were permitted again. Tourism, however, remains one of the ambassador’s biggest priorities. “The unique nature of Ethiopia-Israel tourism is that it is a two-bound one,” he explained. On one side are Ethiopian Christian pilgrims visiting Israel’s holy sites, including Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Jericho, and the Jordan River. On the other are Israeli Ethiopians traveling back to visit their ancestral homeland. “So many people are going to Ethiopia and visiting the places where their ancestors were farming, were praying, where the graveyards are,” he said. Yitayeh believes tourism between the two countries still has enormous untapped potential. “The number of Israelis visiting Ethiopia is small,” he said. “We need to increase the number of Israelis who are visiting, taking into account the historic relationships and ties between our two countries.” He pointed to Ethiopia’s growing tourism infrastructure, including new resorts and improved travel facilities developed over the past several years. “There are a lot of tourist destination sites in Ethiopia,” he said. “Historic, cultural, ethnic, natural.” The ambassador also revealed that discussions have begun internally regarding the possibility of a future visa waiver agreement between Israel and Ethiopia. “A visa waiver is very important,” Yitayeh said, “so people can move easily. Visas should not be a barrier to travel either to Ethiopia or Israel.” Israel's Ethiopian Jewish community The Ethiopian Jewish community in Israel continues to serve as a bridge between the two nations, with many members maintaining strong emotional, cultural, and family ties to Ethiopia. Israelis of Ethiopian origin are entitled to a special visa waiver known as an Ethiopian Origin ID, which allows them to stay in the country beyond the usual three-month period allowed under the tourist visa. According the ambassador, Ethiopians have a very positive view of the Jewish state across the Red Sea, with many Ethiopians admiring Israel’s resilience and technological achievements. “People are very much interested in the way Israel changed this country as a whole,” he said. “They are very appreciative of the technological level and the resilience of Israeli society.” He added that many Ethiopians are fascinated by Israel’s achievements in desalination, recycling, agriculture, and innovation. “They wanted to come and see this development,” he said. “They wanted to prove whether it is true or not.” Another growing area of cooperation between the two countries is academia. The ambassador revealed that several Israeli and Ethiopian universities are now developing partnerships involving joint research, scholarships, and academic exchanges. Among them are collaborations between Holon Institute of Technology and the Ethiopian Science and Technology University, as well as Ben-Gurion University and Addis Ababa University. “They identified about eight areas of cooperation and collaboration,” Yitayeh said. “There will be joint research, academic exchange, and scholarship programs. “We are doing that, and it is going in the right direction,” he added. “But we have to work hard to do more.”

Emphasizing a collaborative approach and adherence to the principles of prudent and reasonable use of transboundary resources, Water and Energy Minister's Special Advisor, Motuma Mekassa, said Ethiopia will continue to advocate for Africa to lead a collaborative and win-win approach in water development. Speaking at the Conference themed “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063” at the African Leadership Excellence Academy, the Special Advisor stated that sustainable water availability and safe sanitation are central to Africa’s collective progress on development, regional partnership, public health, and climate resilience. Ethiopia views water governance as both a development priority and a diplomatic tool, he noted, underscoring the role of cooperation in shared river basins. Motuma also pointed out the ongoing challenges across the continent, including limited access to safe water and sanitation, climate change impacts, weak institutional systems, and the continuing burden faced particularly by women and girls.   He described the conference as a platform that strengthens dialogue on transboundary cooperation and generates recommendations to support regional water governance. Shared rivers like the major basins such as the Congo and Senegal systems require stronger hydro diplomacy, institutional trust, long-term investment frameworks, and measures that deliver mutual benefits for stability and cooperation, the Special Advisor said. “Ethiopia remains committed to the principles of prudent and the reasonable utilization of transboundary resource," Motuma noted, urging for policy dialogue, technical cooperation, investment planning, and broader continental partnership aligned with Agenda 2063 and Sustainable Development Goals. Vice Chief of the African Leadership Excellence Academy, Meseret Desta, cited the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a powerful example of connectivity in the region, noting that the energy generated could support integration, enable trade and development, and act as a “connector of people, economies, and opportunities.”   Meseret also said that sustainable water availability and safe sanitation systems are not merely technical, but a matter of dignity, human development, and governance. Access to water, according to her, is tied to whether institutions function effectively, whether leaders prioritize long-term impact, and whether systems serve communities consistently and fairly. She added that water governance demands shared responsibility, saying that Africa’s destinies are interconnected across rivers, energy systems, and trade routes. The Vice Chief stressed that infrastructure and cooperation do not manage or sustain themselves, calling for continuous engagement and leadership systems to maintain momentum.

Addis Ababa, May 28, 2026 —Investors in Ethiopia's agro-processing sector have affirmed that ongoing economic reforms and industrial support initiatives are creating favorable conditions for business expansion and investment growth. They emphasized that the government has introduced a range of reforms and incentives aimed at strengthening both local and foreign investment. According to the investors, several encouraging measures, including recent macroeconomic reforms, the “Made in Ethiopia” initiative, and various policy adjustments designed to boost domestic manufacturing and industrial productivity. Enyew Chane, DINA Food Processing Company Sales and Distribution Manager, said the government is supporting the manufacturing sector through several initiatives, particularly the “Made in Ethiopia” movement. According to him, the continued implementation of the initiative is playing a significant role in promoting locally manufactured products, expanding market access, and creating stronger market linkages. DINA Food Processing Company produces a variety of products, including wheat flour, maize flour, and inputs supplied to beverage factories. Enyew also noted that, in addition to supplying products to the domestic market, the company is making efforts to enter the export market. Tena Cooking Oil Company Sales Manager Tomas Brehanu also appreciated the government’s efforts to strengthen connections between producers and buyers through industrial promotion initiatives. According to him, supporting local investors engaged in manufacturing contributes significantly to national economic growth through import substitution, job creation, and improved product supply. During the 4th “Made in Ethiopia” Expo 2026 held this fiscal year, marketing agreements worth more than 57 billion birr were secured, while over 350 industries from five major sectors participated in the exhibition.

Addis Ababa, May 27, 2026 — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has announced that the newly completed massive Borena Water Supply Project is transforming lives across the East Borena and Borena zones by providing communities with reliable access to clean water. In a message shared on X, the Prime Minister said the project represents more than a response to recurring drought in the region. He emphasized that the initiative is designed to create long-term improvements in public health, livelihoods, and agricultural productivity. “The massive Borena Water Supply Project is transforming lives across the East Borena and Borena zones by providing communities with reliable access to clean water,” PM Abiy stated.   The large-scale project includes thousands of kilometers of water pipelines, modern pumping stations, resilient infrastructure, and high-capacity reservoirs aimed at strengthening water security in the drought-prone pastoral areas of southern Ethiopia. According to the Prime Minister, the project marks a shift away from short-term emergency drought responses toward a permanent and sustainable development solution for the region. “Through the development of thousands of kilometers of pipelines, resilient infrastructure, advanced pumping stations, and large-scale reservoirs, we are doing more than combating drought,” he said.   According to the Premier, “We are safeguarding public health, strengthening livelihoods, and unlocking agricultural potential for generations to come.” The integrated water supply system is expected to improve living conditions for communities that have long faced chronic water shortages, while also supporting livestock production, agriculture, and broader economic development across the Borena area.

Addis Ababa, May 27, 2026 —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced the completion of irrigation dams under the Finna Oromia Irrigation Projects in Gomole Woreda of the Borena Zone, describing it as a key milestone in securing water infrastructure and building regional climate resilience. The Prime Minister in his social media channels, highlighted that the new critical infrastructure has successfully created a massive water storage capacity of more than 190 million cubic meters in Dese Gora alone, ensuring a reliable and sustainable water supply for the locality. Following these major development efforts, the newly completed infrastructure holds the capacity to irrigate over 14,500 hectares of agricultural land, directly transforming local livelihoods.   "Securing water infrastructure remains a key milestone in building resilience, marked by the completion of irrigation dams under the Finna Oromia Irrigation Projects in Gomole Woreda of Borena Zone," PM Abiy stated. "In Dese Gora, for example, this critical infrastructure has created a massive water storage capacity of more than 190 million cubic meters, ensuring a reliable and sustainable water supply." The Prime Minister further noted that the strategic water projects will play a multi-faceted role in the region's socio-economic stabilization.   By guaranteeing consistent access to water, the initiatives are engineered to directly support local households, strengthen food production, and secure vital water resources for livestock across the pastoral community.

Addis Ababa, May 27, 2026 —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced that the agricultural transformation unfolding in the East Borana Zone serves as a powerful testament to Ethiopia’s journey toward ensuring food self-sufficiency. In a social media post, the Prime Minister, who is currently visiting agricultural developments in the zone, stated that hardworking local farmers have covered over 176,223 hectares of land this production season alone. Following these extensive cultivation efforts, the zone anticipates a massive yield of more than 3.1 million quintals of crops. "The agricultural transformation unfolding in East Borana Zone is a powerful testament to Ethiopia’s journey toward food self-sufficiency!" Prime Minister Abiy wrote. "In this season alone, our hardworking farmers have covered over 176,223 hectares of land, anticipating a massive yield of more than 3.1 million quintals of crops." The Prime Minister further noted that the initiative has mobilized over 101,000 households through organized cluster farming methods, utilizing modern tractors to turn agricultural potential into high productivity. According to Prime Minister Abiy, the ongoing major harvests of wheat in Liben District, alongside teff, maize, and haricot beans, are successfully securing the nation's domestic food supply.

Addis Ababa, May 27, 2026 —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today officially inaugurated the new Negele Borena Geda Airport, a major step in expanding Ethiopia’s domestic aviation network and regional connectivity. The newly launched airport becomes Ethiopian Airlines’ 24th domestic destination and is expected to play a significant role in boosting trade, tourism, and economic integration in the southern part of the country. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the Prime Minister said the modern airport has been built to accommodate advanced aircraft, including the Boeing 737 Max, and will immediately begin operations with three weekly flights.   “Today, we officially inaugurate the new Negele Borena Geda Airport and Ethiopian Airlines’ 24th domestic destination,” PM Abiy stated. He further added that: “Built to host advanced aircraft like the Boeing 737 Max, this modern station will immediately launch three weekly flights to catalyse local commerce, cross-border trade, and tourism.” The Prime Minister emphasized that expanding transportation infrastructure is essential to unlocking regional economic opportunities and strengthening national unity.   “Every new runway we build bridges a gap, unlocks regional economic potential, and brings our people closer together,” he noted. Prime Minister Abiy also praised Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest and most successful carrier, as it marks its 80th anniversary this year, describing it as “the pride of Africa” and “The New Spirit of Africa.”   The inauguration of the airport is expected to improve accessibility to the Borena area, facilitate business activity, and create new opportunities for investment and tourism while enhancing connectivity between communities.

The National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) has authorized commercial banks to issue export permits for goods destined to China. According to the public notice issued today, NBE said all licensed commercial banks are fully authorized to issue export permits, manage documentary credits, and handle all related banking transactions for goods destined for China effective today. All banks are therefore requested to facilitate these export services for their clients in strict compliance with the existing standard foreign exchange and export regulations, it added. NBE recalled that, based on the general economic and financial cooperation agreement between the Ethiopia and China, it was previously directed that all export permits for goods destined for China be processed exclusively through the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE). However, the Bank concluded that is has officially lifted the restriction with the aim of further streamlining the nation's foreign trade sector, enhancing competitiveness, and creating a more accessible environment for exporters.

Addis Ababa, May 26, 2026 —Ethiopian Airlines is no longer simply a regional airline but a competitor on the world stage, US Ambassador to Ethiopia, Ervin Massinga, said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, the Ambassador noted that Ethiopian Airlines has spent decades expanding its network and services, while also positioning itself for continued future development. He also highlighted the airline’s long-standing partnerships with the United States and American companies, adding that firms such as Boeing and GE have worked closely with Ethiopian Airlines and are expected to remain key partners as the airline expands further. For Ambassador Massinga, the significance of Ethiopian Airlines goes beyond passenger travel. He mentioned its role in cargo transport and its function in connecting Africa with the rest of the world, including the United States. “Ethiopian Airlines is no longer simply a regional airline. It is a competitor on the world stage,” he noted.   Moreover, the Ambassador pointed out the strength of the U.S–Ethiopian Airlines relationship during challenging periods, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Ethiopian Airlines helped transport key items such as vaccines and medications during the pandemic, he said, describing that cooperation with the U.S as “deep” and “solid”. Ambassador Massinga added that the cooperation will continue into the future. According to him, the airline’s future-focused planning and capability are key to its continued success. The U.S intends to remain part of the airline’s growth story—particularly through potential investment and involvement by American companies and financiers in new airport development, he emphasized. Ethiopian Airlines was founded in December 1945 through a foundational management partnership with the Trans World Airlines (TWA) that provided the airline's initial pilots, technicians, and operational infrastructure, laying the groundwork for a long-standing strategic relationship with U.S. aviation firms like Boeing and GE Aerospace. After 80 years of successful journey, Ethiopian Airlines Group is now one of the fastest-growing airline brands globally and the leading Aviation Group in Africa.   It took the lead in introducing cutting-edge aviation technology and systems, including the first jet airplane as well as the first B767, B777-200LR, B787 Dreamliner, Boeing B787-9, the Airbus A350-900 XWB, and the A350-1000. Moreover, Ethiopian has created the much-needed intra-Africa and transcontinental air connectivity network, linking Africa to the rest of the world. It serves more than 145 destinations, with daily and multiple flights. Ethiopian Airlines has won much-coveted multiple industry awards for several years in various categories such as SKYTRAX World Airline Awards, Business Traveller Awards, and APEX Passenger Choice Awards.

Addis Ababa, May 26, 2026 —The Council of Ministers passed today decisions on loan agreements spanning agriculture, energy, trade, and climate finance as well as wide ranging legislative frameworks. The Council of Ministers initially examined two loan agreements. First on the agenda was a 46.3-million USD loan agreement secured from the African Development Bank for the execution of the Pastoral Food and Livelihood Improvement Project. The second is a loan agreement of 146.1 million SDR from the International Development Association to finance the sixth phase of the Productive Safety Net Program. Ascertaining that both loan agreements align with the nation’s debt management policy, the Council unanimously decided to forward the respective draft ratification proclamations to the House of People's Representatives. The Council then reviewed a draft proclamation tabled to amend the Federal Tax Administration Proclamation. While the Tax Administration Proclamation No. 983/2016 has served as the governing legal framework, the far-reaching macroeconomic transformations witnessed across the country over recent years have necessitated an overhaul to harmonize the system with contemporary global benchmarks, settle tax disputes in a fair, amicable, and efficient manner, institute a culture of transparency and accountability, and ensure robust enforcement of tax laws. Following deliberations, the Council integrated key inputs and unanimously voted to refer the draft proclamation to the House of People's Representatives. The Council also discussed the draft proclamation on the Ethiopian Carbon Market. The bill sets the legal foundation to operationalize the national carbon market strategy, attract green investments, facilitate technology transfer, establish clear regulations for carbon trading mechanisms, and implement safeguards to protect local communities and environments hosting carbon projects, while introducing an equitable framework for revenue sharing among the government, developers, local communities, and key stakeholders, ensuring that Ethiopia honors its commitments under international climate treaties and greenhouse gas emission reduction pledges. The Council unanimously approved the draft proclamation and referred it to the House of People's Representatives. The draft Ethiopian Statistics Proclamation was the other agenda item tabled for discussion. The bill seeks to ensure the professional independence of the Ethiopian Statistical Service, clearly delineates the regulatory and executive roles of oversight and implementing bodies, strengthens coordination among all producers of official statistics, uphold data confidentiality, elevate the quality and accessibility of statistical outputs, and align domestic statistical methodologies with international principles and standards. The Council enriched the draft and unanimously voted to forward it to the House of People's Representatives. Furthermore, the Council deliberated on the draft National Energy Policy. Harmonized with the Homegrown Economic Reform, the Ten-Year Development Plan, the Green Economy Strategy, and the Sustainable Development Goals, the policy outlines a framework to harness the nation's energy resources affordably, guaranteeing a sustainable, reliable, secure, cost-effective, and competitive energy supply while maximizing benefits for all citizens. After comprehensive deliberations, the Council enriched the document and unanimously decreed its immediate implementation from the date of its adoption. The Council then turned its attention to the draft National Policy on Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality. The policy is structured to confront the root causes of systemic gender disparities, fortify mechanisms for the prevention of, protection from, and response to gender-based violence, and address the specific needs of women with disabilities and other highly vulnerable segments of the population, aligned with international and continental gender equality treaties ratified by Ethiopia.   The policy was unanimously approved for immediate implementation. The Council also appraised the draft Insurance Proclamation. It is designed to serve as a robust legal framework to govern and guide the insurance sector, bolster market credibility, foster a fair, safe, and stable insurance ecosystem, and protect the interests of policyholders and insurance clients. Following review, the Council unanimously decided to forward it to the House of People's Representatives. The Council proceeded to deliberate on the draft Ethiopian Trade Policy. The policy is structured to effectively steer domestic and international trade systems, reinforce interventions designed to bridge specific market gaps, diversify export commodities and services to reduce the historical over-reliance on primary agricultural products, establish rigorous product safety standards and fair trade practices, and offer strategic support to domestic industries to build competitive capacity and enhance productivity. The Council debated on the policy and unanimously approved its implementation starting from the date of its adoption. It then reviewed a draft amendment regulation introduced to redefine the organizational structure, mandates, and duties of the Petroleum and Energy Authority. The regulation seeks to empower the Authority to discharge its statutory responsibilities with heightened efficiency and competence. Following extensive deliberations on the text, the Council incorporated key inputs and unanimously decreed that the regulation shall enter into force upon its publication in the Federal Negarit Gazette. The Council further considered a draft regulation aimed at establishing clear rules for the transparency of beneficial ownership information concerning entities endowed with legal personality. This regulation provides the necessary enforcement mechanisms for effective execution of the existing proclamation on the Prevention and Suppression of Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism. Following a comprehensive review, the Council incorporated inputs and unanimously decided that the regulation be effective upon its publication in the Federal Negarit Gazette. The draft Food System and Nutrition Proclamation was the other issued discussed by the Council. The bill provides a legal foundation to execute interventions meant to mitigate and eliminate the adverse impacts of malnutrition on public health, education, the environment, productivity, social cohesion, and the national economy, establishing a coordinated national oversight structure, securing sustainable resource allocation, and enhancing community ownership, thereby steering the nation toward achieving its global food system commitments and domestic nutritional targets. The Council thoroughly reviewed the draft and unanimously resolved to forward it to the House of People's Representatives. Finally, the Council deliberated on a draft regulation brought forward to govern the allocation of government budgetary support to autonomous universities. The regulation aims to transition state funding for autonomous institutions toward a transparent, block-grant system that ensures financial accountability, equity, and efficiency, while encouraging higher learning institutions to gradually increase cost-sharing capabilities and maintain standard educational outcomes under a framework of mutual responsibility. Following discussion, the Council enriched the draft and unanimously ratified the regulation, decreeing its enforcement upon publication in the Federal Negarit Gazette. In addition, the Council discussed a legislative framework designed to transition the agricultural sector from traditional practices to a business-driven model, amplify the market bargaining power of smallholder producers, foster value addition and integrated industrial input linkages, legally support the transition of capable smallholders into medium-scale developers, reinforce national food security, and stimulate job creation. The draft proclamation on establishment of Agricultural Business Company was then referred to the House of People's Representatives.

Addis Ababa, May 26, 2026 —Ethio Telecom has been officially listed on the Ethio Telecom shares market under the Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX), marking a historic turning point in the country’s financial and capital market development. The listing follows a public share offer in which the state-owned telecom operator sold a 10 percent stake to Ethiopian citizens. The initiative is designed to broaden public participation in ownership of one of the country’s largest and most profitable enterprises, while also laying the groundwork for a more inclusive investment culture and a modern capital market system. Speaking at the official listing ceremony, Ethio Telecom CEO Frehiwot Tamru said the company is committed to supporting Ethiopia’s broader digital transformation agenda and strengthening financial inclusion. She emphasized that the move aligns with national efforts under “Digital Ethiopia,” aimed at expanding access to digital services and economic opportunity. Regulatory authorities also highlighted the significance of the development, ENA learned. Ethiopian Capital Market Authority Director General, Hana Tehelku noted that Ethio Telecom’s entry into the exchange reflects the growing role of major state enterprises in advancing technology, investment, and financial sector development. She added that the authority remains committed to providing regulatory oversight and institutional support as Ethiopia builds its capital market ecosystem. For his part, Ethiopian Securities Exchange CEO Tilahun Esmael, described the listing as a key milestone for Ethiopia’s financial system, highlighting Ethio Telecom’s transformation and its importance in shaping the country’s digital and financial future. Beyond the institutional announcements, the listing is widely viewed as a foundational step in Ethiopia’s effort to establish a functioning capital market. It is expected to encourage domestic investment, attract potential foreign participation in the long term, and create a formal platform where citizens can trade shares and build wealth through equity ownership. Analysts see the move as part of a broader structural shift: transitioning from a largely state-led economic model toward a more market-oriented system with regulated investment channels. While still at an early stage, the Ethiopian Securities Exchange is positioned as a central pillar in that transition, aiming to connect businesses with capital and citizens with investment opportunities in a transparent marketplace, it was learned. Against this backdrop, the listing of Ethio Telecom is widely seen not only as a corporate milestone, but also as a symbolic gateway for Ethiopia’s entry into organized capital markets.

Addis Ababa, May 25, 2026 —The Amhara Region Mining Resource Development Bureau has announced that mineral products valued at more than 246.1 million USD were produced through import substitution during the first nine months of the current Ethiopian fiscal year. This major economic milestone aligns directly with the implementation of Ethiopia’s Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda, which prioritizes the mining sector as a critical pillar for accelerating national economic growth, reducing foreign currency expenditure, and driving regional prosperity. According to the bureau, the region also licensed 169 new mining investment projects, generated nearly 13 million USD from gold and opal exports, and created employment opportunities for more than 33,000 citizens during the reported period. Public Relations Director of the bureau, Zinaw Abebe, told Ethiopian News Agency that the region’s vast mineral resources are being developed through both modern and artisanal mining methods supported by systematic geological studies. He stated that 18 mineral exploration and research projects carried out in collaboration with regional higher education institutions were completed and handed over during the current fiscal year. According to Zinaw, the studies confirmed the commercial viability of a wide range of resources, including industrial minerals used for construction, metallic and iron-related minerals, precious stones, and energy-related mineral inputs. By presenting the research findings to prospective investors, the bureau facilitated the launch of 169 licensed mining projects that became operational over the past nine months. As a result, more than 2.4 million tons of minerals, including gypsum, limestone, silica sand, coal, marble and granite, were extracted, helping the country save over 246.1 million USD through import substitution. The bureau further disclosed that more than 18,500 kilograms of raw and value-added opal, along with gold, were supplied to the central market, generating nearly 13 million USD in foreign currency earnings. The sector’s expansion has also created employment opportunities for more than 33,000 citizens, contributing to improved socio-economic livelihoods across the region. Zinaw noted that the mining sector has fully met local demand for construction inputs, supporting the rapid pace of infrastructure development in urban centers throughout the region. He added that a geological mapping project covering 25 percent of the region has been completed, identifying the spatial distribution and locations of 51 different mineral resources.

Addis Ababa, May 24, 2026 —Ethiopia closed the week with a powerful display of industrial ambition, diplomatic expansion, democratic momentum, and strategic self-reliance—signaling a nation increasingly determined to shape its future on its own terms. From groundbreaking industrial projects and digital sovereignty initiatives to regional peacebuilding and expanding global partnerships, the country continued to project a confident image of transformation across Africa and beyond. Data Sovereignty Takes Center Stage At the heart of Ethiopia’s digital transformation agenda, Addis Ababa hosted a landmark national conference and exhibition under the theme “Data Sovereignty for Policy Autonomy,” presided over by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and senior government officials.   The event underscored Ethiopia’s growing determination to strengthen its statistical independence and ensure that national development policies are guided by credible, locally generated data rather than fragmented, externally dependent systems. Addressing the conference, Prime Minister Abiy described the gathering as a major milestone in Ethiopia’s journey toward full data and statistical sovereignty. He emphasized that the country is steadily building the institutional capacity necessary to generate, manage, and utilize its own data resources to drive national development and informed policymaking. Officials attending the conference noted that Ethiopia has made substantial progress in documenting its developmental achievements through robust statistical evidence, marking a significant shift from years of reliance on externally supported frameworks. Industrialization Accelerates Ethiopia’s drive toward industrial self-sufficiency gained remarkable momentum this week with the inauguration of the state-of-the-art Grandeur Ceramic Factory. Officially launched by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the facility utilizes more than 80 percent locally sourced raw materials, reflecting the country’s broader push toward import substitution, domestic manufacturing, and export competitiveness. The factory is expected to strengthen Ethiopia’s position in regional and global industrial markets while reducing dependence on imported construction materials.   Momentum also accelerated in the agricultural sector. The Prime Minister announced significant progress at the Gode Fertilizer Project, where construction of a massive urea plant with an annual production capacity of three million metric tons is advancing rapidly. Once completed, the project is expected to dramatically reduce fertilizer imports, improve agricultural productivity, and reinforce Ethiopia’s long-term food security ambitions. Ethiopia’s Economic Appeal Expands Globally On the international economic stage, Ethiopia continued attracting growing investor confidence. At the Dubai–Ethiopia Business Forum held in Addis Ababa, international business leaders and investors described Ethiopia as one of Africa’s most promising trade and investment destinations, citing its strategic location, market scale, infrastructure expansion, and reform momentum. Meanwhile, in Geneva, Ethiopia achieved another milestone in its bid to join the World Trade Organization (WTO) after signing a Bilateral Market Access Protocol with India—an important breakthrough in the country’s accession process and broader global trade integration strategy. Ethiopian Airlines Marks 80 Years of Excellence This week also marked a historic moment for Ethiopian Airlines as Africa’s leading carrier celebrated its 80th anniversary. The celebration featured a vibrant 8-kilometer road race and renewed national recognition of the airline’s role as a symbol of African excellence and resilience. Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh praised the airline as a continental success story that has elevated Africa’s aviation standing globally. At the same time, the airline’s Board of Directors reaffirmed commitment to its ambitious Vision 2040 strategy, aimed at major fleet expansion, increased global connectivity, and enhanced competitiveness in international aviation markets. Democratic Momentum and National Dialogue As Ethiopia approaches its 7th General Election scheduled for June 1, 2026, public engagement continues to intensify across the country. The Ethiopian Institute of Public Diplomacy stated that the growing civic participation reflects a strong sovereign democratic will, resilient against external pressure and increasingly driven by domestic ownership. Civil society organizations are also preparing to deploy more than 60,000 domestic observers nationwide to strengthen voter awareness and electoral transparency. In a related development, Commander Abebe Muluneh confirmed that the Intergovernmental Authority on Development is preparing to observe Ethiopia’s upcoming election by deploying regional experts from Djibouti, Somalia, Kenya, South Sudan, Sudan, and Uganda. Parallel to the electoral process, Ethiopia’s National Dialogue Commission continued broad consultations with civil society representatives and faith leaders, gathering critical agenda inputs aimed at building an inclusive national consensus. Horn of Africa Pushes for Strategic Integration Regional diplomacy and peacebuilding also featured prominently this week. Senior government officials, policymakers, and regional experts gathered in Jigjiga for the High-Level Horn Inter-Elite Dialogue, where participants called for deeper regional integration, stronger cooperation, and sustainable peace across the Horn of Africa. The forum focused on strategic autonomy, long-term peacebuilding, and collective regional prosperity.   One of the most significant outcomes of the gathering was the declaration establishing a permanent regional platform dedicated to strengthening dialogue, coordination, peacebuilding, and cooperation throughout the Horn. Meanwhile, Ethiopian leadership reaffirmed the country’s longstanding commitment to collective peace and regional security during high-level defense discussions with the Eastern Africa Standby Force. Expanding Diplomatic Reach Diplomatically, Ethiopia continued broadening its global engagement by advancing strategic cooperation frameworks with both the United States and the BRICS alliance. The dual-track approach reflects Addis Ababa’s evolving geopolitical strategy—balancing key bilateral partnerships while strengthening participation in emerging multilateral blocs. Domestically, national leaders also reinforced the country’s commitment to economic sovereignty. Government Chief Whip Tesfaye Beljige reiterated that securing seaport ownership and access remains a fundamental national interest central to Ethiopia’s long-term economic independence and strategic future.   Building Self-Reliance at Home In the healthcare sector, Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health advanced national resilience by modernizing bio-defense and oxygen-production capabilities across 83 operational oxygen plants nationwide. The initiative highlights Ethiopia’s growing capacity to independently manage domestic health and emergency challenges while reducing external dependency. A Changing Global Narrative Taken together, this week’s developments reflect more than isolated achievements. They represent the emergence of a new national trajectory, one defined by industrialization, institutional confidence, regional leadership, democratic participation, and sovereign development. As Ethiopia’s transformation gains visibility internationally, global perceptions of the country are also shifting rapidly. Longstanding misconceptions are increasingly being replaced by a more dynamic image of a nation asserting itself through infrastructure, diplomacy, innovation, and strategic ambition. In many ways, this week captured the essence of Ethiopia’s evolving story: a country determined not merely to participate in the future, but to shape it.

Addis Ababa, May 24, 2026 — Mayor Adanech Abiebie has inaugurated more than 100 community development projects in the Bole Sub-City, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to fostering a healthy and productive generation. The newly completed infrastructure includes five sports complexes, 95 children’s playgrounds, six day-care centers, cafeterias, amphitheaters, and various multi-purpose community spaces. Among the projects inaugurated is the Lemmi Community Stadium, a modern sports facility constructed by philanthropist Captain Abera Lemmi at a cost exceeding 300 million Birr. “When we set out to make Addis Ababa an emblem of prosperity, our utmost priority was building a generation nurtured both in mind and body,” Mayor Adanech wrote on her social media page. She stated that the projects are designed to create accessible recreational and social spaces for residents, particularly children and youth. Built on 4,900 square meters of land, the Lemmi Community Stadium features a standard football field, running track, shaded spectator seating area, commercial shops aimed at creating employment opportunities for young people, modern restrooms, a gymnasium, and storage facilities. The mayor expressed appreciation to Captain Abera Lemmi for financing and handing over the stadium to the community. “On behalf of myself and the City Administration, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Captain Abera Lemmi for developing and handing over this stadium. I also urge residents to utilize this facility with utmost care and ownership,” she said. Mayor Adanech also commended the leadership of Bole Sub City for what she described as outstanding performance in delivering the projects.

Addis Ababa, May 24, 2026 —Ethiopia’s quest for ownership of a seaport is a key national interest and an existential issue that determines the country’s economic sovereignty, Government Chief Whip Minister Tesfaye Beljige (PhD) said. Ethiopia’s pursuit of a seaport is grounded in strong and rational foundations that combine historical and geographical realities with legal rights and principles of equitable access, he told ENA. The Chief Whip stated that Ethiopia’s connection with the Red Sea coast has been deeply embedded in the history of its state formation and nation-building. The strength of the Axumite civilization and the extensive trade conducted with Middle Eastern countries through the Port of Adulis were, for instance, rooted in Ethiopia’s longstanding ties with the Red Sea, he elaborated. The Chief Whip further pointed out that historical efforts to isolate Ethiopia from the Red Sea, including through the use of internal collaborators, represent a deeply regrettable historical rupture caused by misguided calculations and conspiracies. Even today, external actors and their local agents continue pursuing what Tesfaye described as flawed calculations aimed at obstructing Ethiopia’s quest for ownership of sea port, access. The Chief Whip further elaborated that over the past three decades, Ethiopia has managed to break a dangerous narrative that treated raising the issue of sea port as a provocative act, creating an important platform for dialogue and discussion on the matter. He recalled that since Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed publicly raised Ethiopia’s quest for ownership of sea port, the House of People's Representatives has carried out extensive activities related to public diplomacy and people-to-people engagement on the issue. Ethiopians should maintain a united vision and firm position on issues of national interest, the Chief Whip underscored. No political differences should lead to compromising a generational issue, he noted, urging the need for collective cooperation to safeguard national interests and aspirations. Ethiopia continues to pursue its quest for sea port through peaceful means and on the basis of mutual benefit, Tesfaye stated. The Chief Whip cited international examples of cooperative arrangements adopted by countries such as Bolivia and Peru, Brazil and Paraguay in Latin America, as well as Mali, Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire in Africa. He further said that Ethiopia is widely promoting its aspirations within the framework of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 by fostering regional connectivity and economic integration among countries in the region. Ethiopia’s lack of sea port is placing significant pressure on the national economy, according to Tesfaye, who noted that the country has been forced to annually spend between 1.5 billion and 2 billion USD on port and logistics services alone. The Chief Whip stated that the growing cost has negatively affected Ethiopia’s trade competitiveness as well as its overall economic growth trajectory. Tesfaye finally called on media institutions to promote national consensus and clearly communicate Ethiopia’s position to sea port ownership. Ethiopia’s quest for sea port is one of the key national interest issues that determines the country’s development, growth, and prosperity through the safeguarding of economic sovereignty, he stressed.

Addis Ababa, May 23, 2026 — The Yirgalem Integrated Agro-Industrial Park has generated over 2.5 million USD in revenue from avocado oil export to European nations, according to the Sidama Region Industrial Parks Development Corporation. Sidama Region Industrial Parks Development Corporation Chief Executive Officer, Hailu Yetera, stated that extensive work is underway to boost productivity and revenue within the region. In line with this strategy, he stated that the Yirgalem Integrated Agro-Industrial Park has placed a strong emphasis on producing export commodities and import-substituting goods in both quantity and quality. Out of 34 companies that signed investment agreements to operate in Yirgalem Integrated Agro-Industrial Park, ten are fully operational, the Chief Executive Officer said. Consequently, the park has secured over 2.5 million USD from avocado oil exports destined for European markets during the past 9 months alone. Furthermore, developers engaged in processing agricultural goods for the domestic market have successfully saved the nation over 6.3 million Birr by producing effective import substitutes, Hailu added. According to him, the park has comprehensive infrastructure and an institutional framework to collect raw materials directly from farmers via cooperatives. On his part, Dejene Guta, Deputy Manager of Ethio Fruit Factory—an avocado oil processing firm that entered the park nearly a year ago— said the company has exported products worth about 500,000 USD to various European destinations. He added that the factory is working to process around 66,000 liters of avocado oil from the ongoing harvest, targeting an additional 300,000 USD in export revenue. The park has fully developed infrastructure, the Deputy Manager stated, expressing appreciation for the government's interventions and support in mitigating recent fuel supply challenges. YBM Avocado Oil Factory Manager, Tsegaab Melese, said their facility has generated over 8 million USD from exports over the past four years. Building on this momentum, the factory is currently striving to export avocado oil valued at over 2 million USD to the European market during the current production season, according to the Manager. He attributed the operational success of the factory to the park's excellent infrastructure, consistent government support and monitoring as well as the abundant local supply of fresh avocados. Tsegaab noted that the ample availability of raw agricultural inputs and local labor beyond the robust infrastructure has created a highly favorable environment for both existing businesses and emerging investors. Inaugurated in 2020, the Yirgalem Integrated Agro-Industrial Park spans 294 hectares of land and is equipped with all the essential modern utilities required by developers focusing on agro-processing.

Addis Ababa, May 23, 2026 — Ethiopian Airlines has kept its pace with success and vision, Board of Directors Chairman and Commander-in-Chief of Ethiopian Air Force, Lt. Gen. Yilma Merdasa said, reaffirming commitment to continued growth and competitiveness. Closing ceremony of the 80th Anniversary of Ethiopian Airlines was held at Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa last night in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew, and invited guests. Speaking on the occasion, the Board of Directors Chairman said the airline remains on the path to success by enduring the challenges it faces. He described Ethiopian Airlines as a unique institution that has earned high recognition from international institutions for its excellent and modern services. According to him, the airline is working extensively to develop a strategy aimed at strengthening its competitiveness at the international level, beyond its standing as Africa’s best airline. The airline has also consolidated its gains through multi-faceted activities carried out in line with government directions over the past eight years of transformation. Lt. Gen. Yilma Merdasa affirmed that the airline will continue working with great determination toward greater success. Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mesfin Tasew, stated that the airline, which began its historic journey to Cairo, has since expanded to 145 destinations across five continents. The company currently operates 147 modern aircraft, he added. The CEO noted that Ethiopian Airlines has become Africa’s leading carrier by transporting more than 20 million passengers annually. During the past eight years of the reform period, the number of new aircraft increased by 47 percent, the number of customers rose by 97 percent, annual revenue grew by 121 percent, and profit increased threefold. Mesfin underscored that the airline is built on a solid foundation and will continue strengthening the values behind its achievements.

Addis Ababa, May 23, 2026 — The world-class grandeur ceramic factory inaugurated today positions Ethiopia to compete in global markets, marking a major milestone in the country’s industrial transformation, according to Office of the Prime Minister. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, together with high-level government officials, inaugurated the factory located in Mojo City. The facility, a world-class ceramic and porcelain tile manufacturing plant spanning 300,000 square meters, is completed in just nine months from land preparation to full commissioning, the Office added. Already in active production of 60x60 ceramic tiles, the factory is expected to expand within the next two months to manufacture 80x80, 60x120, 70x140, and 80x160 tile formats, alongside porcelain tiles produced to European quality standards, it was learned. Accordingly, with an investment exceeding 2 billion Birr, the facility marks a major milestone in Ethiopia’s industrial transformation. Approximately 80 percent of the factory’s raw materials are sourced locally from within a 100-kilometer radius, creating a fully integrated and community-rooted supply chain. The ceramic factory not only reduces imports but also positions Ethiopia to compete in global markets. The Office of the Prime Minister concluded by stating that Ethiopia has saved more than 4.85 billion USD in foreign exchange through import substitution within just nine months.

Addis Ababa, May 23, 2026 —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today officially inaugurated the state-of-the-art Ceramic Factory, marking a significant stride in the nation's industrial development. In a social media post following the ceremony, Prime Minister Abiy stated "As part of our industrialization journey and a major milestone in advancing the 'Made in Ethiopia' initiative, the inauguration of the Grandeur Ceramic Factory this morning stands as a practical demonstration that our movement will steadily expand across the country attracting international investments." The Prime Minister further highlighted the strategic importance of the facility, noting "The factory will supply ceramic products that meet international standards of quality and competitiveness, while sourcing more than 80 percent of its raw materials locally." "Beyond strengthening Ethiopia’s capacity to harness its own natural resources and potential, this achievement will significantly reduce dependence on imported goods," he added.

Addis Ababa, May 22, 2026 —Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh, at the 80th anniversary dinner of Ethiopian Airlines, praised the national carrier as far more than an airline—calling it a living symbol of African excellence. He reflected on the airline’s long journey of eight decades, noting how it has weathered wars, political transitions, economic hardship, and global uncertainty while remaining steady and resilient. Beyond moving passengers across continents, he said, Ethiopian Airlines has carried the pride, ambition and aspirations of Ethiopians around the world. The Deputy Prime Minister also pointed to the airline’s response during the COVID-19 pandemic as a defining moment in its history. While global aviation came to a near standstill, Ethiopian Airlines stayed operational by quickly adapting its business model, expanding cargo services and stepping up emergency response operations. The Deputy PM further described this period as a clear example of the airline’s agility, innovation, and resilience under pressure. He further emphasized the carrier’s place as one of Africa’s most respected aviation institutions, built on decades of strong leadership, technical expertise and organizational discipline. Its workforce—pilots, engineers, cabin crew, and support staff; was credited with upholding a deep culture of professionalism and long-term commitment to excellence. Beyond aviation, he highlighted the airline’s wider impact on Ethiopia’s development, including boosting trade, supporting tourism, creating jobs, and strengthening the country’s international presence and reputation. Concluding his remarks, Temesgen said Ethiopian Airlines reflects the determination and potential of the Ethiopian people and stands as proof of what African institutions can achieve on the global stage. The Deputy PM expressed confidence that the airline will continue its growth toward its 100th anniversary and beyond.