Addis Ababa, June 11, 2026 (ENA) —The 2.339-trillion Birr federal government draft budget for the upcoming 2019 Ethiopian fiscal year aims at maintaining the achievements registered through the comprehensive economic reforms, Finance Minister Ahmed Shide said today. The House of People's Representatives (HPR) has referred the draft budget to the Plan, Budget, and Finance Affairs Standing Committee for further review. The proposed federal budget is expected to support continued investments in infrastructure, agriculture, industrial development, and social services while preserving the government’s commitment to macroeconomic stability. On Tuesday, the Council of Ministers passed a record-breaking over 2.3 trillion birr draft federal budget for the upcoming 2019 Ethiopian fiscal year (2026/27). The draft Federal Government Budget has been prepared based on the goals set in the fiscal year's Development and Investment Plan, which is part of the Ten-Year Development Plan, it was learned. Presenting the draft budget to the House of People’s Representatives during its 25th regular session, Finance Minister Ahmed Shide stressed that it is aimed at maintaining the achievements registered through the economic reforms. According to him, preparation of the draft budget took into consideration the macroeconomic and other development plans as the country’s economy is expected to grow by 10.1 percent for the upcoming EFY.   Stating that the implementations of the country's Homegrown Economic Reform and the Ten-Year Development Plan have been successful, Ahmed said Ethiopia’s economy has registered significant achievements, effectively withstanding the internal and external pressures. The Minister revealed that more than 1.2 trillion Birr out of the 2.339 trillion Birr is allocated for recurrent expenditure, 568.2 billion Birr for capital expenditure, 520.6 billion Birr for regional states support, and 14 billion Birr for regional states SDGs. From the total budget, 52.9 percent is alloted to recurrent expenditures, including for domestic and foreign debt repayment, fertilizer, and petroleum subsidy, among others.   Ethiopia achieved an average annual economic growth rate of 6.8 percent between the 2018/19 and 2023/24 fiscal years, before registering a remarkable 9.2 percent expansion in the 2024/25 fiscal year. Driven by the country’s comprehensive economic reforms, Ethiopia’s economy is expected to register 10.2 percent growth by the end of this Ethiopian fiscal year. Ethiopia’s coordinated monetary and fiscal reforms are delivering strong economic results, helping position the country among the world’s fastest-growing economies.

Addis Ababa, June 11, 2026 (ENA) —United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed has called on Africa to move “from policy design to delivery of scale” and from “promising pilots to measurable impact.” In her message at the Africa Development Impact Forum (ADIF) in Addis Ababa today, she said that while the African continent is rich in ideas and strategies on what works, the central challenge is implementation. According to Agenda 2063, the Sustainable Development Goals, and the Pact for the Future require more than commitments. The Deputy Secretary-General emphasized that strategies must be matched with delivery if they are to improve people’s daily lives.   Moreover, Mohammed pointed out the urgency of delivering opportunities for Africa’s young people, describing youth as the continent’s greatest asset while calling for investment in sustainable, inclusive, and decent work. She also pointed to the need for exploiting the potential of digital transformation to expand access to services, open new markets, and increase productivity. Noting that successful models already exist across sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, services, the digital economy, green jobs, creative industries, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, the Deputy Secretary-General said too often these efforts remain fragmented, are not replicated, and fail to evolve from pilots into long-term transformation.   She urged governments to lead with vision, the private sector to drive innovation and investment, development partners to align behind regional and national priorities, researchers and think tanks to keep policy evidence-based, and young innovators to be central to designing future solutions. On his part, UN Economic Commission for Africa Executive Secretary, Claver Gatete, said Africa’s future will increasingly hinge on its ability to mobilize domestic resources, attract investment, build competitive industries, and generate sustainable employment for its rapidly growing population. The Executive Secretary noted that artificial intelligence is reshaping industries and labor markets, while declining development assistance and tighter financing conditions mean governments can no longer assume the scale of support relied upon in previous years. For him, the challenge is substantial but the opportunity is equally significant because Africa’s most important strategic asset is its people.   More than 60 percent of Africans are under the age of 25, making the continent the youngest globally; and that by 2035 Africa is expected to have the world’s largest workforce. Gatete, however, cautioned that demographic advantage will not automatically translate into prosperity. More than 15 million young Africans enter the labor market each year seeking opportunity, while ILO data show that 53 million young people were not in employment, education, or training in 2023, he added. According to him, many of those who do find work remain concentrated in informal and low-productivity jobs. Yet, Africa has key ingredients for economic transformation, including entrepreneurial talent, renewable energy resources, critical minerals vital to the global energy transition, expanding digital ecosystems, growing urban markets, and opportunities created by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).   The Executive Secretary says he believes AfCFTA could raise intra-African trade by up to 45 percent by 2045. This would open avenues for industrialization, regional value chains, and millions of jobs. Gatete thus underscored the need for leveraging AfCFTA to develop regional value chains and expand markets, and strengthening implementation capacity and accountability to ensure policies produce measurable results. He further outlined the priorities to strengthen inclusive and job-rich growth, including investing in skills and capabilities aligned with a changing economy, shifting focus from start-ups to scaling enterprises that grow, innovate, compete, and create jobs, and accelerating industrialization and value addition.

Addis Ababa, June 11, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia’s coordinated monetary and fiscal reforms are delivering strong economic results, helping position the country among the world’s fastest-growing economies while significantly reducing inflation, Finance Minister Ahmed Shide told lawmakers on Thursday. Presenting the federal government’s draft budget to the House of People’s Representatives during its 25th regular session, Ahmed said the alignment of fiscal and monetary policies under Ethiopia’s Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda has strengthened macroeconomic stability, accelerated growth, and enhanced the country’s resilience to both domestic and external shocks. According to the minister, Ethiopia achieved an average annual economic growth rate of 6.8 percent between the 2018/19 and 2023/24 fiscal years, before registering a remarkable 9.2 percent expansion in the 2024/25 fiscal year.   Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties affecting global markets, particularly in the Middle East, Ethiopia’s economy is projected to grow by 10.2 percent during the current fiscal year, further highlighting the country’s rising economic momentum. “Ethiopia’s growth story is increasingly distinguished by its ability to sustain strong economic expansion while simultaneously reducing inflationary pressures,” Ahmed told Parliament. The minister attributed the achievement to disciplined macroeconomic management, including close coordination between fiscal and monetary authorities, targeted supply-side interventions, and structural reforms designed to boost domestic productivity. A central pillar of the government’s reform strategy has been tighter control of money supply growth.   Ethiopia has also ended the long-standing practice of financing federal budget deficits through direct central bank advances, a move widely regarded as critical to restoring macroeconomic stability and strengthening fiscal discipline. As a result, inflation has fallen dramatically from a peak of 34.5 percent in August 2021 to 9.4 percent by March 2025. This marks one of the most significant declines in the country’s recent economic history, it was learned. The Finance Minister noted that increased agricultural output, improved livestock supply chains, and expanded urban farming initiatives have boosted food availability and helped ease cost-of-living pressures. These measures, alongside market stabilization efforts and foreign-exchange reforms, have contributed to sustained moderation in both food and non-food prices. Recent data from the Ethiopian Statistics Service points to continued stabilization in consumer prices, reinforcing confidence in the government’s broader economic management framework.   The finance minister further emphasized that Ethiopia’s economic transformation is being guided by the nation’s Ten-Year Development Plan, which aims to build a more productive, resilient, and competitive economy capable of delivering inclusive and sustainable growth. Economists view Ethiopia’s recent performance as particularly noteworthy at a time when many emerging economies continue to grapple with high inflation, debt burdens, and slowing growth. The combination of robust economic expansion and declining inflation has strengthened confidence in the country’s reform trajectory and reinforced its standing as one of Africa’s leading growth engines. The proposed federal budget is expected to support continued investments in infrastructure, agriculture, industrial development, and social services while preserving the government’s commitment to macroeconomic stability and fiscal responsibility. As Ethiopia advances its reform agenda, policymakers say the country is laying the groundwork for sustained growth, increased investment attraction, and long-term prosperity in one of Africa’s largest and most dynamic economies.

Addis Ababa, June 11, 2026 (ENA) —Africa’s future will increasingly hinge on its ability to mobilize domestic resources, attract investment, build competitive industries, and generate sustainable employment for its rapidly growing population, the Executive Secretary of the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), Claver Gatete, said. Speaking at the Africa Development Impact Forum (ADIF) in Addis Ababa, Gatete noted that the meeting comes as the continent faces major global upheaval, including climate shocks, geopolitical fragmentation and conflicts, rising debt risks, supply chain disruptions, and rapid technological change. He observed that artificial intelligence is reshaping industries and labor markets, while declining development assistance and tighter financing conditions mean governments can no longer assume the scale of support relied upon in previous years. Gatete acknowledged that the challenge is substantial, but the opportunity is equally significant because Africa’s most important strategic asset is its people. He stated that more than 60 percent of Africans are under the age of 25, making the continent the youngest globally, and that by 2035, Africa is expected to have the world’s largest workforce. However, he cautioned that this demographic advantage will not automatically translate into prosperity. Gatete warned that more than 15 million young Africans enter the labor market each year seeking opportunities, while ILO data show that 53 million young people were not in employment, education, or training in 2023. He added that many of those who do find work remain concentrated in informal and low-productivity jobs. Gatete mentioned that Africa has key ingredients for economic transformation, including entrepreneurial talent, renewable energy resources, critical minerals vital to the global energy transition, expanding digital ecosystems, growing urban markets, and opportunities created by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He noted that AfCFTA—covering a market of 1.5 billion people with a combined GDP exceeding USD 3.4 trillion—could raise intra-African trade by up to 45 percent by 2045. Gatete said this would open avenues for industrialization, regional value chains, and millions of jobs. He argued that while successful solutions exist across the continent, they often remain isolated pilot projects or fail to translate into implemented policies. Gatete outlined five priorities to strengthen inclusive, job-rich growth: investing in skills and capabilities aligned with a changing economy; shifting focus from start-ups to scaling enterprises that grow, innovate, compete, and create jobs; accelerating industrialization and value addition; leveraging AfCFTA to develop regional value chains and expand markets; and strengthening implementation capacity and accountability to ensure policies produce measurable results. In her video message, United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed noted that while the continent is rich in ideas and strategies on what works, the central challenge is implementation—moving “from policy design to delivery at scale” and from “promising pilots to measurable impact.” Citing Agenda 2063, the Sustainable Development Goals, and the Pact for the Future, she emphasized that strategies must be matched with delivery to improve people’s daily lives. The Deputy Secretary-General also stressed the urgency of delivering opportunities for Africa’s young people, describing youth as the continent’s “greatest asset” while calling for investment in sustainable, inclusive, decent work. She stated that job creation should enable livelihoods, expand opportunities, and allow young women and men to shape their societies. She pointed to the potential of digital transformation—including digital public infrastructure, innovation ecosystems, artificial intelligence, fintech, and e-commerce—to expand access to services, open new markets, increase productivity, and create pathways to decent work. On her part, Head for Youth, Employment and Skills Program at the African Centre for Economic Transformation (ACET), Mona Iddrisu, said ADIF is aimed at an economically transformed Africa driven by inclusive growth, competitiveness, and sustainable development. Iddrisu said ACET’s mission is to support African governments and institutions with evidence, policy solutions, and partnerships that accelerate economic transformation and improve livelihoods. She emphasized that evidence alone does not create change, adding that it must be translated into policies, partnerships, and actions that are implementable and scalable.

Addis Ababa, June 11, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has congratulated Ethiopians on the successful achievement of the 5 Million Ethiopian Coders Initiative milestone, describing it as a testament to the country's determination, talent, and digital potential. In a social media post shared today, the Prime Minister announced that Ethiopia has surpassed its target ahead of schedule, recording 5,005,146 enrollments in Programming, Data Analysis, Android Development, and Artificial Intelligence fundamentals since the initiative was launched on July 23, 2024. "What we set out to achieve in three years, we have accomplished in less than two," Prime Minister Abiy stated, attributing the achievement to the commitment and limitless potential of the Ethiopian people. The Prime Minister emphasized that the milestone marks not the end of the journey, but the beginning of a new phase of ambition. PM Abiy further noted that Ethiopia is now aiming to reach 7 million enrollments by August 2026, further accelerating the country's digital transformation agenda. Calling on young Ethiopians to seize the opportunity, he urged students to use their summer break to acquire valuable digital skills through the program's free training courses. "Register, learn, and return to your classrooms not just as students, but as certified digital leaders," the Premier said, highlighting that participants receive internationally recognized certification upon completion. The 5 Million Ethiopian Coders Initiative is one of the country's flagship digital capacity-building programs, designed to equip millions of citizens with skills needed to compete in the global digital economy and contribute to Ethiopia's technological advancement. "The future you build starts today," the Prime Minister concluded.

By staff writer There are moments in the life of nations when numbers tell a story far greater than economics. They become symbols of confidence, ambition, and national direction. The Ethiopian Council of Ministers' approval of a draft federal budget equivalent to 14.51 billion USD for the upcoming Ethiopian fiscal year, up from 11.98 billion USD in the previous fiscal year, is one such moment. The increase is not merely an accounting exercise. It is a reflection of a country determined to accelerate its transformation despite the formidable challenges it has faced in recent years. At a time when many developing economies continue to struggle with debt pressures, geopolitical uncertainty, climate shocks, and post-pandemic recovery, Ethiopia is positioning itself for a projected economic growth rate of more than ten percent, signaling confidence in the future. The message emerging from Addis Ababa is increasingly clear: Ethiopia is no longer merely a country with potential; it is becoming a country determined to realize that potential. The Giant at the Heart of Africa Throughout history, Ethiopia has occupied a unique place on the African continent. Home to one of Africa's oldest civilizations, the headquarters of the African Union, and a population exceeding 130 million, Ethiopia has long been recognized as a strategic pillar of the continent. Yet the country's significance extends beyond its size. The stability of Ethiopia affects the stability of the Horn of Africa. Its prosperity influences the prosperity of neighboring economies. Its infrastructure projects connect markets across borders. Its diplomatic engagement shapes regional cooperation. For decades, analysts have argued that no sustainable peace or economic integration project in the Horn can succeed without Ethiopia playing a central role. Today, that assessment appears more relevant than ever. A strong Ethiopia does not merely benefit Ethiopians. It creates opportunities for investors, traders, transport corridors, energy cooperation, and regional integration across East Africa and beyond. Democracy's Gradual Consolidation Political development, like economic development, is rarely linear. What matters is direction. Recent electoral processes have demonstrated an evolving democratic culture that continues to attract attention from international observers and partners. While challenges remain—as they do in all developing democracies—the growing participation of citizens, institutional strengthening, and the peaceful conduct of electoral exercises have been acknowledged by numerous international partners.   The significance lies not in claiming perfection but in recognizing progress. Countries are not judged solely by where they stand today but by the trajectory they are following. And Ethiopia's trajectory increasingly points toward stronger institutions, expanding civic participation, and greater political stability. The Spirit of Adwa Lives On No discussion about Ethiopia's future can be separated from its history. The Battle of Adwa remains one of the most consequential events in African history. It was not simply a military victory. It was a declaration that Africans could defend their sovereignty and determine their own destiny. The descendants of Adwa continue to carry that legacy. The same spirit that defended independence now drives the country's developmental ambitions. Today, the battlefield is different. It is fought through infrastructure, technology, industrialization, education, agricultural productivity, and economic competitiveness.   Nations no longer rise through military victories alone. They rise through innovation, productivity, and strategic vision. Ethiopia's challenge is therefore not merely to remember Adwa, but to translate its spirit into twenty-first century success. Security as a Foundation for Development History demonstrates that economic transformation requires security. Over the years, Ethiopia has maintained one of Africa's most capable defense establishments and has played a major role in peacekeeping and regional stabilization efforts. Ethiopian forces have contributed significantly to regional security missions and counter-terrorism efforts across the Horn of Africa. The importance of this cannot be overstated. Investors seek stability. Businesses seek predictability. Economic growth flourishes where peace is protected. A stable and secure Ethiopia remains one of the strongest guarantees for peace and development across the wider region. The Economy's New Engines Perhaps the most exciting story emerging from Ethiopia today is the diversification of its economy. Agriculture remains a cornerstone of national development, but new engines of growth are beginning to emerge. Ethiopia has become Africa's leading wheat producer, demonstrating that strategic investment and policy reforms can dramatically improve food security and reduce import dependence. Beneath Ethiopia's mountains, valleys, and vast plains lies another story of promise. Gold is increasingly flowing from the earth into national coffers, strengthening export earnings and signaling the emergence of a more diversified economy. Deep below the soil, natural gas resources await fuller development, offering the prospect of powering industries, generating foreign exchange, and supporting a new phase of economic transformation. What was once considered potential is gradually becoming production; what was once a dream is steadily moving toward reality.   Combined with ambitious fertilizer projects, expanding agricultural productivity, and ongoing economic reforms, these developments suggest that Ethiopia's future prosperity will not rest on a single pillar. Wheat fields, gold mines, energy projects, industrial parks, digital innovation, and a young workforce are together creating multiple engines of growth. For investors and partners looking toward the future, the message is increasingly clear: Ethiopia is not building merely for the next fiscal year—it is building for the next generation. Exports have shown encouraging momentum across multiple sectors, while macroeconomic reforms are creating a more competitive environment for investment. The government's economic reform agenda has sought to address longstanding structural challenges while laying the foundation for sustained growth. No transformation occurs overnight. But the trend line increasingly points upward. Building a Modern Economy The Ethiopia of tomorrow will not be defined solely by what it grows. It will be defined by what it produces, innovates, and exports. Artificial intelligence, digital services, manufacturing, logistics, renewable energy, and value-added agriculture all represent sectors with enormous potential. The country's youthful population—one of the largest labor forces in Africa—could become one of its greatest strategic advantages if matched with skills, technology, and investment. Global investors searching for the next major growth story would be wise to pay attention. The economic center of gravity is gradually shifting toward emerging markets with large populations, growing consumer demand, and untapped productive capacity. Ethiopia possesses all three. Why the World Should Work With Ethiopia? Too often, international discussions about Africa focus on challenges while overlooking opportunities. Yet successful investors and strategic partners understand a simple principle: the greatest opportunities frequently emerge where transformation is underway. Ethiopia represents one of the largest emerging opportunities on the African continent. Its population provides scale. Its location provides connectivity. Its resources provide potential. Its reforms provide momentum. Its history provides resilience. Its future provides promise. No serious discussion about Africa's economic future can exclude Ethiopia. The Road to the Top Predicting that any country will become Africa's number one economy within a decade is ultimately a matter of aspiration rather than certainty. Many variables will shape the future. Yet one fact is difficult to ignore. Few African countries combine Ethiopia's population size, strategic location, agricultural capacity, infrastructure investments, reform momentum, and untapped natural resources. The ingredients for extraordinary growth are present. The task ahead is execution. If current reforms continue, if peace and stability are consolidated, if productivity continues to rise, and if investment flows into strategic sectors, Ethiopia's economic ascent could become one of the defining African stories of the twenty-first century. The budget approved this week may therefore represent more than a fiscal document. It may be another marker on the long journey of a nation determined to transform its immense potential into tangible prosperity. For Ethiopia, the future is not guaranteed. But it is increasingly visible. And for the region, a strong Ethiopia remains one of the surest foundations upon which lasting peace, shared prosperity, and African renaissance can be built. This version keeps the patriotic and strategic framing while avoiding categorical claims such as "Ethiopia will definitely be Africa's No. 1 economy in ten years," which would weaken credibility. Instead, it argues that Ethiopia possesses many of the conditions that could make such an outcome possible.

Addis Ababa, June 9, 2026 —Ethiopia is embracing its hopes and moving steadily toward a brighter future, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh said during the inauguration of a series of development projects in Woldia City. Temesgen underscored the country's determination to sustain its development momentum despite ongoing challenges. The Deputy Prime Minister made the remarks while officially inaugurating several projects completed in Woldia city in Amhara region, describing them as clear evidence of Ethiopia's continued progress and transformation.   Speaking at the event, Temesgen said the newly completed projects reflect the nation's forward march and demonstrate that no force can derail Ethiopia's pursuit of growth, prosperity, and modernization. He praised the people of Woldia for their commitment to peace and stability, describing them as a community that consistently rejects extremism and division in favor of unity, development, and strong state institutions. The Deputy PM stressed that the government's struggle extends beyond confronting armed groups in specific areas.   Rather, he said, it is a broader effort against forces that seek to perpetuate division, poverty, and stagnation. He further revealed that those clinging to outdated mindsets have failed to recognize the scale and pace of Ethiopia's ongoing transformation. The Deputy Prime Minister noted that insurgents operating in remote areas are unable to witness the sweeping changes taking place across the country, pointing to flagship national initiatives such as the Corridor Development Program, the Lemat Trufat (Bounty of the Basket) agricultural initiative, Dine for Ethiopia projects, and the country's wheat production drive.   He emphasized that the Corridor Development Program is far more than an urban beautification effort, describing it as a strategic initiative aimed at modernizing cities, improving living standards, and enhancing economic competitiveness. Ethiopian cities, he said, should aspire to compete with leading urban centers across East Africa and beyond. Temesgen also highlighted the nationwide expansion of the Mesob One-Stop Service initiative, noting that it is helping modernize public service delivery and improve efficiency and accessibility for citizens. Referring to the newly established public library, digital library, and science cafés in Woldia, he said the facilities will help nurture a knowledge-driven generation by promoting research, innovation, and critical thinking. He added that newly built market centers and commercial facilities will strengthen local economic activity and create greater opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs.   Underscoring the importance of food security, the Deputy Prime Minister called for the further expansion of the Bounty of the Basket initiative to accelerate Ethiopia's drive toward sustainable food self-sufficiency. Reaffirming the country's commitment to development, Temesgen said Ethiopia will continue "shedding its debts and embracing its hopes," stressing that no coalition of adversaries can obstruct the nation's progress. He also called on government institutions, investors, and the public to work in close partnership to expand ongoing development initiatives and extend their benefits to rural communities, thereby accelerating Ethiopia's journey toward inclusive growth and lasting prosperity.

Addis Ababa, June 9, 2026 — Corridor development projects are being carried out in 43 cities and towns of the Amhara Region, according to officials of the region. This was disclosed during the visit of Amhara region senior officials in Woldia city last night. The Amhara Regional State Urban Sector Coordinator with the rank of Deputy Chief Administrator, Ahmedin Mohammed, said the corridor development project has increased the strategic value of Woldia City as it connects with many cities. He pointed out the upgrading of previously narrow roads and congested areas by wide bridges and spacious entertainment and commercial areas in the city.   Corridor development is a matter of generation and nation building beyond beauty, Ahmedin stressed, adding that the renewal project is intergenerational as the children who are walking on these roads today will take over the country tomorrow. According to him, the other cities in the region should learn from the creative and resource-saving experience of Woldia. Amhara Regional State Urban and Infrastructure Development Bureau Head, Molla Melkamu, said corridor development projects are being carried out in 43 cities and towns of the region. He stated that the cities and towns of the region are emerging from their shabby appearance and becoming comfortable places for work, living, and tourism. Woldiya city has brought about remarkable changes by working at high speed and quality, the Head said. The Medemer government is implementing the entrepreneurial idea of using limited resources efficiently and effectively to finalize many projects quickly, which makes the city's development unique, he explained. Molla said the leadership and residents of Woldia have raised resources and taken quick action to increase the economic value of the city. This is great proof that any challenge can be overcome if the leadership works together with the people and provides a lesson for the region, he underscored.

Addis Ababa, June 9, 2026 — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has highlighted the potential of advanced construction technologies to transform Ethiopia’s national housing program, following a visit to a housing development demonstration site after a meeting of the Council of Ministers. Following the meeting, the PM visited ''a housing development demonstration site featuring construction that is both exceptionally modern and driven by highly accelerated technology." On this single site, he added that three modern construction methods were simultaneously deployed: 3D printing, light steel prefabrication, and container housing. "Each stands as living proof that premium-quality homes can be delivered in a matter of days and weeks, rather than months and years, demonstrating that speed and quality no longer need to be compromised when the right technology is embraced." According to PM Abiy, this caliber of innovation has the power to fundamentally alter the trajectory of the national housing program, offering a model that can easily be deployed, replicated, and scaled across every corner of the country. "We have seamlessly aligned advanced technology with our national vision. Today serves as tangible proof that we are moving decisively in the right direction."

Addis Ababa, June 8, 2026 — The Ethiopia Tamirt (Made in Ethiopia) Movement has been pivotal to producing high-quality products that meet domestic demand and generate foreign exchange, Minister of Industry Melaku Alebel said. The regional Ethiopia Tamirt Movement closing program was held in the Amhara Regional State, Kombolcha City, under the theme “Ethiopia Tamirt for Inclusive Sovereignty.” Addressing the program, Minister of Industry Melaku Alebel said the movement has played a significant role in the growth of the industrial sector and in stimulating the country’s economy in recent years. In addition, the Minister stated that the movement has supported industries, improved infrastructure, modernized service delivery, and addressed challenges, noting that tangible results have been registered in such areas. The minister further stated that, in addition to substituting imported products and boosting the production of quality goods that generate foreign exchange earnings, the movement has enabled the creation of job opportunities for citizens. The movement has created a favorable environment for many industries to make a transition into producers and attract new investors in the investment sector, he underscored. Amhara Regional State Chief Administrator Arega Kebede said Ethiopia Tamirt movement has enabled the region to provide efficient services in the industrial and investment sectors, which have contributed significantly to the growth of the region’s economy. In addition to substituting imported products and producing goods for foreign markets, he said the movement has also made a significant contribution to developing a culture of using domestic products and taking pride in locally produced goods. Head of the Region’s Industry and Investment Bureau, Endris Abdu, said that through the movement, 496 new and existing industries have transitioned into operational status over the past four years. Furthermore, he said that more than 125,000 jobs have been created in the industry and investment sectors. The movement has enabled it to enhance close collaboration with investors, helping them promote their products, access credit facilities, obtain the necessary infrastructure, and receive sustained and strengthened support, he emphasized

Addis Ababa, June 6, 2026 —Ethiopia will continue to strengthen its efforts to strengthen regional energy connectivity, Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP) CEO Ashebir Balcha said. According to him, the construction of projects that ensure Ethiopia's development and prosperity are in progress. The CEO told ENA that Ethiopia has given special attention toward developing renewable energy. Over the past years, 3 major projects, including the Grand Renaissance Dam, have been completed and have become operational, he added. The CEO noted that Ethiopia's extensive work in renewable energy development has enabled it to be among the leading countries in the sector. He also explained that the electricity generated by Ethiopia comes entirely from renewable and clean energy. Ashebir further stated that Ethiopia is working at the forefront of the East African Energy Connectivity Initiative and will continue to strengthen its efforts to enhance regional energy connectivity. He also revealed that, in addition to Djibouti, Sudan, and Kenya, to which Ethiopia supplies power to, an attempt is being made to sell power to Tanzania. Moreover, studies are being conducted to connect power with other countries. The CEO said that Ethiopia exports less than ten percent of its energy to foreign countries. Thus, efforts are underway to prioritize renewable energy by integrating domestic and foreign energy. The construction of the Koysha Power Generation Project, which has a huge generation capacity, is underway, and efforts are being made to complete it quickly and get it operational. In addition, 16 power transmission and distribution station projects are under construction.

Addis Ababa, June 5, 2026 —The Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Ethiopia was officially launched in Ottawa, Canada, in the presence of government officials, diplomats, business leaders, members of the Ethiopian diaspora community, and stakeholders from both countries. Speaking at the event, Ambassador Tewodros Girma, Special Envoy and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Ethiopia to Canada, highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reforms aimed at improving the business environment and strengthening private sector participation. He noted that the Chamber would serve as an important bridge connecting businesses, entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators from both countries while helping to enhance trade and investment relations. In her remarks, Cheryl Urban, Assistant Deputy Minister for Africa and Pan-Geographic Affairs at Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs, reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to expanding economic engagement with African countries and strengthening commercial relations with Ethiopia. Canada’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Nicolas Simard, noted that the Chamber would further reinforce the longstanding relationship between the two countries and help unlock new opportunities for trade, investment, and business collaboration. The Vice President of the Chamber, Abiy Raymond, expressed confidence that the institution would provide a strong platform for businesses and investors seeking to expand opportunities in both markets. The Chamber is expected to contribute to fostering partnerships, facilitating investment, and promoting sustainable economic growth for the mutual benefit of both countries.

Addis Ababa, June 5, 2026 —The Industrial Parks Development Corporation (IDPC) has introduced a major policy shift aimed at accelerating industrialization by supporting domestic manufacturers through reduced service fees and four years of free access to selected industrial parks. Speaking to ENA, IDPC Chief Executive Officer Fisseha Yitagesu emphasized that the new approach is designed not only to help local investors establish production facilities more easily but also to create employment opportunities and strengthen supply chains. “We are backing manufacturers so that they can easily begin production, create job opportunities, and supply outputs for both export and local markets,” Fisseha noted. He explained that while foreign direct investment has contributed significantly to the country's industrial development, the corporation is now placing greater emphasis on supporting domestic investors and helping small and micro enterprises grow into medium and large scale industries. “Primarily, supporting our country’s investors, promoting them, and enabling small and micro enterprises to grow into medium and heavy industries is highly critical,” he added. As part of the new policy, eligible enterprises will benefit from reduced fees and an unprecedented incentive that allows them to operate in selected industrial parks free of charge for four years. “Doing this is very essential because a country’s growth and industrial development are primarily driven by domestic investors,” Fisseha noted. According to the CEO, the policy is already yielding results, with local investors now accounting for more than 65 percent of businesses operating in industrial parks across the country. Fisseha said the availability of integrated infrastructure, including land, electricity, water supply, telecommunications services, and waste treatment facilities, is helping reduce the high startup costs that have traditionally discouraged local manufacturers from entering the sector. “The biggest challenge local investors faced in joining the manufacturing sector was infrastructure, and we have now addressed that problem,” he said. The CEO also highlighted the growing participation of youth and women entrepreneurs in the parks and underscored the importance of strengthening collaboration between industry and academia. He pointed to the proximity of Kilinto Industrial Park to Addis Ababa Science and Technology University as a valuable opportunity for internships, research partnerships, skills development, and technology transfer. “University-industry linkage contributes to increasing production and productivity while also improving the quality of education,” he said. As part of the first phase of the initiative, the corporation recently allocated 10 hectares of fully serviced land equipped with electricity, water, telecommunications, and sewerage infrastructure to 26 medium sized enterprises in the Bole Lemi and Kilinto industrial parks. The move is expected to boost production capacity, improve productivity, and strengthen the role of domestic manufacturers in Ethiopia’s industrial transformation.

Addis Ababa, June 3, 2026 - Norwegian investors have expressed strong interest in Ethiopia’s growing e-mobility and green investment sectors, according to the Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC). EIC Commissioner Zeleke Temesgen met yesterday with a Norwegian delegation led by Norwegian Ambassador Stine Christensen to discuss ways of strengthening investment cooperation between the two countries.   According to the commission, the discussions focused on green investment, renewable energy, electric mobility, and broader efforts to promote sustainable economic development. During the meeting, Zeleke highlighted the Ethiopian government's ongoing efforts to improve the national investment climate.     He noted that reforms include opening additional sectors to private investment, establishing institutions that support investment activities, and introducing investor-friendly laws and regulations aimed at creating a transparent and predictable business environment. The commissioner also emphasized that Ethiopia has adopted favorable policies to accelerate the development of e-mobility and is investing in the infrastructure required to support electric transportation. He encouraged Norwegian investors to explore opportunities in the sector and take advantage of the country's evolving investment landscape. Ambassador Christensen said Norwegian investors are eager to invest in Ethiopia, citing Norway’s extensive experience in green economy policies, renewable energy development, and electric mobility.     The two sides also reviewed preparations for the upcoming Nordic-Africa EV Summit, which is scheduled to take place in Addis Ababa in September. The summit is expected to bring together government officials, investors, industry leaders, and development partners from Africa and the Nordic countries to discuss electric vehicles, clean transportation systems, and sustainable mobility solutions. The discussions underscored growing opportunities for collaboration between Ethiopia and Norway in renewable energy, green investment, and sustainable transport, leveraging Norway’s expertise in green technologies and e-mobility alongside Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reforms and sustainability ambitions.

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.