Addis Ababa, December 16, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopia and India have reaffirmed their growing strategic partnership following high-level talks between Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Addis Ababa. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today welcomed PM Modi at the National Palace during an official welcoming ceremony, followed by a tour of the Palace Museum. The visit underscored the strong and longstanding ties between the two nations. The two leaders held a productive tête-à-tête meeting, which was followed by a bilateral session involving their respective delegations. Discussions focused on exploring renewed avenues of cooperation that reflect the expanding partnership and shared priorities of Ethiopia and India. In a social media post, Prime Minister Abiy noted: “We held a productive tête-à-tête meeting, followed by a bilateral session with our respective delegations, exploring renewed avenues of cooperation that reflect the growing partnership and shared priorities between Ethiopia and India.” During the visit, the two Prime Ministers also presided over the exchange of key bilateral agreements. These included an Agreement on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Customs Matters, a Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of a Data Centre within Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and an MoU on United Nations Peacekeeping Cooperation, reinforcing the two countries’ joint commitment to international peace and security. “India has been a longstanding partner of Ethiopia, and today’s meetings underscore our shared commitment to expanding collaboration across multiple sectors for the mutual benefit of our nations,” Prime Minister Abiy stated. The discussions highlighted both countries’ intent to further strengthen cooperation across diplomacy, technology, trade, and global peace initiatives, marking a new chapter in Ethiopia–India relations.

Addis Ababa, December 16, 2025 (ENA) —Earlier today, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India at the National Palace during an official welcoming ceremony, followed by a tour of the Palace Museum. This was followed by a tête-à-tête meeting between the two Prime Ministers, and subsequently a bilateral meeting with their respective delegations. The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in trade and investment, digitization, and tourism, highlighting the shared priorities of both nations, according to Office of the Prime Minister. Recall that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, earlier this afternoon for an official visit. Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Modi was warmly welcomed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed at Bole International Airport. Prime Minister Abiy said PM Modi’s presence underscores the growing ties between the two countries and expressed optimism about strengthening bilateral relations.

Addis Ababa, December 16, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopia's ongoing economic transformation and reforms are setting the tone for progressive financial and capital markets, according to Cecilia Bjerborn Murai, Sustainable Finance Principal Specialist at the Financial Sector Deepening (FSD) Africa. In an exclusive interview with ENA, the Principal Specialist noted that the economic transformation and reforms in Ethiopia establish the tone for progressive financial markets. “The economic transformation and reforms in Ethiopia really set the tone for progressive financial and capital markets that can attract both African institutional capital as well as international capital,” she stated. Recall that the country has been carrying out continued endeavors to create a more favorable business climate through significant government initiatives and economic reforms. As global and continental investors are increasingly looking for sustainable oriented investment opportunities, there are massive amounts of capital available for such projects and sectors, Murai elaborated. The country’s initiatives in ensuring a favorable business climate really create opportunity for Ethiopia to attract that kind of capital, she added. Ethiopia is actively pursuing reforms to create a more favorable business and investment climate through the Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda, involving liberalizing key economic sectors and enhancing the legal framework. The operationalization of a capital market is a central pillar of the government's economic reform strategy, which is part of its broader Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda. For the Principal Specialist, operationalizing capital markets is key to attract large, diversified pools of capital and allocate it to where it is needed. Realizing the capital markets is also pivotal across all economic sectors and different sizes of companies and organizations. “With the development of different investment products and instruments that different investors can take part in, this creates an efficient allocation of capital, which is critical for real sector economic development.” Murai said Ethiopia's economic priorities are well aligned with sustainable finance, adding that the priorities in agricultural development, renewable energy, and digital infrastructure are really core to addressing areas of climate change and adaptation. The comprehensive Homegrown Economic Reform (HGER) program, launched in 2019, is well underway and yielding tangible results across several key sectors, including strong GDP growth, record exports, and increased foreign investment. Key policy shifts, including the adoption of a market-based foreign exchange system, the implementation of new fiscal and monetary policies, and legal reforms promoting investment, have collectively contributed to the positive results.

Addis Ababa, December 16, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopian Airlines Group has inaugurated a new premium lounge built with a total cost of over 16 million USD at the Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony today, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew said the opening of the premium lounge represents a transformative step in the airlines' mission to elevate every part of the travel experience for its passengers. Combining comfort, convenience and luxury, the facility is set to take traveling through Addis Ababa Bole International Airport to the next level. According to the CEO, this move further reflects the unwavering commitment of Ethiopian to deliver an end-to-end, world-class hospitality to customers. With a total investment cost of more than USD 16 million and a capacity to accommodate up to 1,000 passengers at a time, the lounge has become the largest lounge at the airport, it was learned. The new lounge is open for Platinum and Gold members of Ethiopian ShebaMiles loyalty program, Star Alliance Gold members, as well as eligible frequent flyer program members of other partner airlines. With this latest facility, Ethiopian Airlines continues to create world-class airport experiences for its passengers traveling via Addis Ababa Bole International Airport from across its global network of more than 145 destinations. The inauguration of the premium lounge was attended by high- level government officials, the Ethiopian Group Board Chairman and board members, the executive management, and stakeholders.

Addis Ababa, December 16, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopia’s State Minister of Finance, Semereta Sewasew, held discussions with Patricia Llombart Cussac, Managing Director for Africa at the European External Action Service (EEAS), focusing on bilateral relations as well as regional and global issues of mutual interest. During the meeting, State Minister Semereta outlined key elements of Ethiopia’s ongoing Homegrown Economic Reform, emphasizing the need to encourage European investors to take advantage of the country’s macroeconomic reforms and the wide range of emerging investment opportunities. She reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with the EU and its Member States in the areas of economic development, peace and security, and migration. Semereta also highlighted challenges affecting the smooth conduct of business and political dialogue, underscoring the government’s efforts to address these issues and create a more conducive environment for investment and cooperation. Addressing regional developments, she stressed Ethiopia’s commitment to peace, security, and economic integration in the Horn of Africa. Lthe state minister further underlined the country’s proactive approach toward fostering regional interdependence and cooperation for mutual benefit. On her part, Managing Director Llombart Cussac commended Ethiopia’s role in promoting peace and stability in the region and welcomed its commitment to peaceful coexistence. She reiterated the European Union’s continued support for regional stability and sustainable development, while also expressing appreciation for Ethiopia’s ongoing macroeconomic reforms. The two officials agreed to further strengthen the longstanding partnership between Ethiopia and the European Union and reaffirmed their commitment to enhanced cooperation on bilateral, regional, and global issues of shared interest.

Addis Ababa, December 16, 2025 (ENA) —African coffee exports hit a historic 1.18 million tons in the 2024/25 season, marking the first time continental shipments surpassed one million tons, according to the International Coffee Organization (ICO). Ethiopia and Uganda drove the surge, with Ethiopia’s exports climbing 27.3% to 442,200 tons, while Uganda’s rose 29.6% to 495,600 tons, together accounting for nearly 80% of Africa’s coffee exports. Ethiopia’s growth is attributed to strong harvests, government reforms, better exporter access, high global prices, and large released inventories. Strategic market engagement—including key buyers such as Germany, the U.S., Saudi Arabia, and China’s zero-tariff policy—also fueled the expansion. The continent’s strong performance stands in contrast to a 0.3% global decline in coffee shipments, largely due to weaker South American output. African producers, currently representing 11.6% of global exports, aim to increase their share to 20% by 2030, supported by initiatives in Tanzania, Kenya, and other nations to expand production and modernize auction systems. ICE data highlights robust demand, with arabica prices surging 51% over the year, closing at $8.26/kg on September 30, 2025. At the national level, several countries are advancing their own expansion strategies. In April 2025, Tanzania, Africa’s third-largest exporter after Uganda and Ethiopia, began developing a plan to quadruple its production by 2030. In October 2025, Kenya announced the digitization of its coffee auctions as part of a national program to triple output over the next three years.

When Oumou Sangaré—the globally celebrated Malian artist and a lifelong advocate for African culture and women’s empowerment—recently visited Ethiopia, she was struck by the unprecedented transformation of Addis Ababa, the political capital of Africa. She found a city reinventing itself, where modern infrastructure meets historic neighborhoods, vibrant public spaces reshape daily life and a renewed confidence defines its identity. Her reaction captured more than personal surprise. It reflected a broader moment in which Addis Ababa is challenging expectations and signaling a new chapter in Africa’s urban and cultural narrative. Oumou Sangaré, born in Bamako, Mali (1968), is the "Songbird of Wassoulou," a Grammy-winning Malian singer known for powerful vocals and lyrics addressing women's issues like forced marriage, blending traditional Wassoulou music with modern sounds. Rising from humble beginnings—singing on the streets to support her mother—she became an international voice for African women, social justice, and cultural pride. Her music, spanning acclaimed albums such as Moussolou, Ko Sira, Timbuktu, and Mogoya, has earned her continental and global recognition, including a prestigious UNESCO International Music Award in 2001. Against this background, Sangaré’s impressions of Addis Ababa carry symbolic weight. During her stay, she visited landmarks such as Entoto Park and various museums, spaces that reflect Ethiopia’s effort to merge historical identity with modern urban design. What stood out to her most, however, was the scale and pace of change unfolding across the city. In recent years, the city, which also serves as the political capital of Africa, has embarked on an ambitious wave of infrastructure development and urban transformation. Large-scale corridor projects, expansive green initiatives, upgraded transportation networks, and thoughtfully designed public spaces are reshaping the city’s landscape. Aging structures are giving way to modern high-rises, while redesigned sidewalks, illuminated public squares, and improved traffic systems are fostering a city that feels more connected, accessible, and visually cohesive. For Oumou Sangaré, Addis Ababa’s transformation was so striking that she likened the experience to being in New York City—an observation that underscores how the city is beginning to defy long-held assumptions often attached to African capitals. Her reflection points to a broader shift: Addis Ababa’s evolution is not merely infrastructural, but deeply symbolic. As the diplomatic capital of Africa, the city has long stood as a symbol of political unity. Today, it is also positioning itself as a model of urban renewal, environmental responsibility, and cultural confidence. This evolution challenges outdated global narratives that portray African cities as static or underdeveloped, instead highlighting their dynamism, ambition, and capacity for reinvention. Sangaré’s reflections extended beyond urban development into the cultural sphere. She emphasized that African musicians, particularly the younger generation—carry a responsibility to present Africa to the world through art that is both innovative and grounded in research, history, and tradition. In her view, African music possesses an inherent richness that must be expressed deliberately, drawing from the continent’s diverse cultural heritage rather than mimicking external trends. Her message resonates powerfully with Ethiopia’s current moment. As Addis Ababa modernizes, it faces the delicate challenge of embracing global standards while safeguarding cultural authenticity. Sangaré’s call for art that reconnects young creators with their roots mirrors the city’s own balancing act: modernization without cultural erasure. Eventually, Oumou Sangaré’s experience in Addis Ababa is more than a celebrity observation. It is a cultural affirmation of transformation guided by vision, identity, and purpose. Her “beyond expectation” reaction signals how cities like Addis Ababa are not only changing physically, but also redefining how Africa is seen, heard, and understood on the global stage.

Addis Ababa, December 16, 2025 (ENA) —Political science and international relations experts at Samara University assert that no international legal framework prevents Ethiopia from regaining the maritime access it was stripped of through discriminatory historical processes. The Red Sea issue remains inextricably linked to Ethiopia’s historical legacy, its ancient civilization, the very architecture of its statehood, its national security, and its long-term economic aspirations. Given its geographical, historical, economic backgrounds, the country has initiated discussions to secure sea outlet based on the principle of mutual benefits and partnership that provide amicable opportunities to strengthen shared development. Consequently, Ethiopia continues to pursue persistent diplomatic and legal avenues to address the sovereign right of sea access —a quest that has spanned generations. In an exclusive engagement with ENA, scholars from Samara University’s Department of Political Science and International Relations stressed that Ethiopia’s claim to sea access constitutes a legitimate demand anchored in law, moral reasoning, and diplomacy. Muktar Toyib, Head of the Department, argues that Ethiopia’s separation from the Red Sea, formerly a legal component of its sovereign territory—occurred through mechanisms lacking international legitimacy. For him, there is no global statute prohibiting Ethiopia from reclaiming a access to seaport lost through historical bias. Muktar further characterized the government’s current agenda and the collective demand of the citizenry for maritime access as both "accurate and appropriate." He pointed out a critical legal vacuum: at the time Ethiopia lost its coastline, there was no signed treaty or formal covenant authorizing such a total deprivation of sea access. Under international law, he noted, such a lack of transparency and formal agreement renders the current status quo illegitimate. "When Eritrea seceded from Ethiopia, it should not have unilaterally incorporated the entirety of the Red Sea maritime body that previously belonged to the Ethiopian state," Muktar stated. He added that this monopoly contradicts the fundamental principle of "equitable utilization" enshrined in international water and maritime laws. Echoing these sentiments, fellow lecturer Kassahun Abera maintained that Ethiopia’s quest for a sea outlet is not a sudden provocation but a response to an ongoing injustice. Because the nation was deprived of its coastline in an inequitable manner, its contemporary pursuit is a restorative measure. Kassahun underscored that since Ethiopia’s claim is grounded in legal reality, the nation must remain steadfast in its commitment to resolving the matter through formal diplomatic channels and international legal frameworks.

Addis Ababa, December 15, 2025 (ENA) —The Ministry of Labor and Skills is pursuing an ambitious target, aiming to facilitate overseas employment for 800,000 Ethiopian citizens during the current fiscal year, Labor and Skills Minister Muferihat Kamil said. Minister Muferihat Kamil made the remark at a meeting of Public Expenditure Administration and Control Affairs Standing Committee of the House of People’s Representatives (HPR), where the performance audit report of the ministry was reviewed. Muferihat said that the Ministry actively facilitates overseas employment as a key part of its job creation strategy, securing opportunities for a significant number of citizens in foreign countries while ensuring the safety, benefits, and rights of these workers. She emphasized the remarkable growth in overseas job placements, noting that opportunities surged from 40,000 in the 2014 EFY (Four Years ago) to over 500,000 by 2017 EFY, last June. “In 2014, only 40 Ethiopians secured job opportunities abroad. However, that number skyrocketed to 503,000 citizens employed overseas. The ministry is now actively working to send an additional 800,000 Ethiopians to work abroad in the current fiscal year,” she stated. In addition to increasing job opportunities, the ministry has entered into agreements with various destination countries over the past three years, including recent collaborations with Italy and a German company. She added that a satisfaction survey conducted among citizens working abroad is significantly increasing with their new found jobs. “We conducted a satisfaction survey among citizens working in Saudi Arabia, a key overseas job destination for Ethiopia. The results revealed that 90 percent of employees are satisfied with their jobs,” Muferihat said. Public Expenditure Administration and Control Affairs Standing Committee at the Ethiopian House of People’s Representatives, Yeshemebet Demsie commended the ministry's efforts, noting that the rise in legally employed Ethiopians overseas is encouraging. However, she emphasized the need for extensive work in deploying skilled manpower, enhancing training quality, and coordinating with relevant stakeholders. Yeshemebet also stressed the importance of leveraging local resources to create job opportunities, expanding training centers, and improving the data management of job seekers.

Addis Ababa, December 15, 2025 (ENA) —Addis Ababa has been accelerating coordinated efforts to position itself as a vibrant and globally competitive tourism destination. City leaders underscore renewed political commitment, institutional reforms, and flagship urban projects aimed at transforming the capital into a leading frontier city for international tourism. The first Addis Ababa City Tourism Forum opened in the capital today. A two-day dialogue brought together tour operators, hotel owners, federal and regional officials, and tourism experts to discuss the opportunities, challenges, and strategies shaping the city's tourism future. Addressing the forum, Addis Ababa City Council Speaker Buzena Alkedir emphasized Ethiopia’s vast and diverse tourism resources had long remained underutilized due to the absence of platforms that bring stakeholders together to jointly unlock the sector’s potential. “Despite our immense tourism endowments, there has been a gap in coordination and dialogue,” she said. “This forum is designed to fill that gap and create a shared vision for developing Addis Ababa as a competitive tourism destination.” She noted that the forum is expected to strengthen public private collaboration, encourage innovation, improve access to finance, enhance tourism marketing and promotion, facilitate information exchange and address pressing sectoral challenges. Buzena said the City Administration has intensified its efforts to boost tourism alongside major urban transformation initiatives, including corridor development and riverside development projects, which have already contributed to increased tourist inflows into the city. Addis Ababa Tourism Commissioner Hunde Kebede, on his part, said the federal government has given special attention to tourism as a key pillar of the economy under the homegrown economic reform agenda. “Tourism is now treated as a strategic economic sector,” he said. “For the first-time, large-scale tourism projects initiated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed have been developed, contributing not only to sector growth but also to the country’s image building.” Hunde added that city level initiatives such as corridor development, riverbank projects and the construction of grand conference halls are reshaping Addis Ababa’s urban landscape and enhancing its visibility as a tourism and meetings destination. “Beyond addressing infrastructure needs, corridor development is playing a critical role in expanding tourism opportunities and improving the city’s global appeal,” he said. As part of its institutional reform, the city administration recently established the Addis Ababa Tourism Commission to lead and coordinate tourism promotion, destination development, hospitality standards and stakeholder engagement. Since its establishment, the Commission has undertaken efforts to promote both newly developed and existing tourism destinations, which includes the "Visit Addis Ababa" website and social media platforms as well as mobile application is currently under development, he mentioned.

Addis Ababa, December 15, 2025 (ENA) —Minister of Agriculture, Adisu Arega, announced today that a range of critical initiatives are being rigorously implemented to realize Ethiopia’s agricultural transformation agenda and ensure national food security. The announcement came during a handover ceremony of essential field vehicles, motorbikes, and motorized water pumps to regional states and federal executive institutions. As Ethiopia continues to advance its agricultural transformation agenda, the country is increasingly embracing mechanized farming as a cornerstone of its development strategy. Agriculture remains the backbone of Ethiopia’s economy, employing a large share of the population and contributing significantly to national GDP. Mechanized farming has been instrumental in expanding wheat production and generating surplus supplies, marking notable successes in the sector, it was indicated. The equipment, procured under the Ministry of Agriculture's Food System Resilience Program and the Ethiopia Climate-Resilient Wheat Value Chain Development Project, includes 267 field vehicles, 1,854 motorbikes, and 2,289 water pumps, with a total value of approximately 2 billion Ethiopian Birr, funded by various development partners. During the handover ceremony, Minister Adisu emphasized the government’s ongoing commitment to agricultural transformation. He outlined plans to bring previously uncultivated land into production and promote multi-cropping systems, enabling farmers to harvest more than twice a year. Complementary efforts are also underway to expand mechanization and enhance financial accessibility for farmers. “These holistic initiatives are vital not only for ensuring food security but also for stimulating rural economic growth,” Minister Adisu said, underscoring the transformative impact of the government’s agricultural programs. According to him, these holistic efforts, Adisu concluded, are vital for guaranteeing national food security and stimulating the rural economy.

Addis Ababa, December 15, 2025 (ENA) —Award-winning African journalists have praised Addis Ababa for its unprecedented development surge, describing Ethiopia’s capital as a fast-evolving city marked by modern infrastructure, cultural vibrancy, and inclusive growth. The journalists shared their impressions with the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA) after being recognized at the prestigious African Media Awards, jointly organized by the African Union of Broadcasting (AUB) and the Patrice Lumumba Foundation. The awards ceremony, hosted in Addis Ababa last week, evaluated more than 800 media entries from over 40 African countries, honoring 21 finalists and special award recipients in the presence of senior politicians and media leaders. Participants expressed surprise at the city’s rapid progress, citing new high-rise developments, improved services, a growing economy, strong connectivity, and a dynamic cultural scene. Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa, also the political capital of Africa as host of the African Union—has in recent years embarked on an ambitious and wide-ranging infrastructure development program aimed at transforming the city into a smart, modern urban center. Driven by rapid urbanization and the need for sustainable growth, the initiative focuses on upgrading transport networks, expanding digital connectivity, modernizing public services, and developing smart governance systems to improve efficiency and quality of life, it was learned. Observers note that these efforts are designed to strengthen Addis Ababa’s role as a continental diplomatic hub, support economic expansion, enhance service delivery, and position the city as a model for smart urban development in Africa. In that regard, Ayanda Holo, President of TV BRICS Africa, said Addis Ababa’s transformation is increasingly visible with each visit. He emphasized that the city’s progress is driven by local residents and praised its inclusive urban development approach that strengthens community ties and ensures peaceful access to public spaces. RT correspondent Athi Mtongana described Addis Ababa as a city where natural beauty, rich history, and modern architecture coexist seamlessly. She highlighted the warmth of the people, vibrant markets, and lively music, noting the city’s unique blend of tradition and modernity. First-time visitor Francis Nyerere, grandson of Tanzania’s founding father Julius Kambarage Nyerere, said he was deeply impressed by the hospitality of Addis Ababa’s residents and the city’s historical landmarks, which he described as culturally enriching. Arise News Nigeria award winner Favour Barbara George also shared her admiration, pointing to landmarks such as Unity Park and the city’s modern AI complex as symbols of Addis Ababa’s balanced development. She underscored the strong cultural ties between Ethiopia and Nigeria and encouraged Africans to experience the city firsthand. The journalists collectively described Addis Ababa as a city of opportunity, resilience, and transformation—positioning it as a leading hub of Africa’s urban and cultural renaissance.

Addis Ababa, December 13, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopia is carrying its continued inspiring endeavors that strengthen economic cooperation and regional integration in the Horn of Africa, according to veteran experts. Approached by ENA, experts in the field noted that Ethiopia is strengthening its commitment in carrying out activities to ensure peace, development and regional integration in the Horn of Africa. International Water Law researcher Kebede Gerba noted that Ethiopia’s development of its natural resources is generating benefits that extend beyond its borders. He emphasized that large-scale infrastructure projects play a crucial role in promoting economic integration and shared growth across the region. Ethiopia has steadily positioned itself as a catalyst for regional integration by investing heavily in transformative infrastructure, particularly in the energy and transport sectors. Major hydropower projects and regional power-interconnection lines have enabled the country to export electricity to neighboring states, fostering economic interdependence and mutual development. Similarly, the expansion of key road corridors linking Ethiopia with Djibouti, Kenya, Sudan, and Somalia has strengthened trade flows, reduced transportation costs, and improved access to ports and regional markets. These developments, Kebede added, demonstrate Ethiopia’s continued leadership in connecting neighboring countries through energy and infrastructure. On his part, Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs Standing Committee Deputy Chairman at the House of Peoples’ Representatives, Fethi Mahdi, said Ethiopia’s historic role in supporting Africa’s liberation from colonialism remains unforgettable. He further affirmed that Ethiopia’s ongoing commitments and concrete measures to promote peace and security in the region have gained global recognition. Tilahun Tefera, a senior researcher at the Policy Studies Institute, highlighted that Ethiopia is working closely with neighboring countries in a spirit of friendship to achieve mutual development and sustainable growth. He stressed that these efforts prioritize comprehensive cooperation, common development, and the establishment of lasting peace and security in the Horn of Africa. According to the experts, Ethiopia has further strengthened its regional role by deepening peaceful relations with its neighbors to advance shared prosperity. Emphasizing that the peoples of the region share common identities and values, they underscored the importance of utilizing regional resources in a fair, equitable, and mutually beneficial manner.

By Staff Writer Addis Ababa, December 14, 2025 (ENA) —In recent years, Ethiopia’s tourism sector has gained remarkable momentum, fueled by substantial government investments and forward-thinking initiatives aimed at positioning the country as a premier global destination. Over the past six years, the government has actively expanded new tourist destinations nationwide, including in Addis Ababa, through the innovative “Dine for Nation” initiative. This strategic push marks a significant milestone for the East African nation, enhancing its role not only in regional tourism but also on the global stage. Home to stunning landscapes, rich cultural traditions, and extraordinary historical sites, Ethiopia is now blending its heritage with modern tourism infrastructure to attract international travelers and drive sustainable economic growth. This initiative has paved the way for the development of several world-class tourist destinations, modern lodges, and resorts built to international standards, spearheaded by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. By harnessing Ethiopia’s rich cultural and natural heritage, these efforts aim to boost economic growth while increasing the country’s appeal to international visitors. Among the flagship projects under the “Dine for Ethiopia” program are Halala Kela Resort, Wonchi Eco-Tourism, and Gorgora Resorts and Lodges, designed to attract both domestic and international tourists. Another notable development is Elephant Paw Lodge in Chebera Churchura National Park, offering unique eco-tourism experiences that highlight Ethiopia’s biodiversity. Additionally, the newly inaugurated Beynouna Village is emerging as a key attraction, generating revenue for the government while providing economic benefits to local communities. These projects collectively are reshaping Ethiopia’s tourism landscape, creating a supportive environment for sector growth and positioning the country as a must-visit destination for travelers worldwide. Globally, tourism is projected to generate over $16 trillion in revenue and create approximately 450 million jobs in the coming decade. Ethiopia’s comprehensive initiatives, including the development of Beynouna Village and other innovative projects, are ensuring that the nation taps into this growing global market while elevating visitor experiences through upgraded lodging facilities and world-class services. With its historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural richness, Ethiopia is steadily emerging as a leading tourist destination in Africa. Through visionary leadership and strategic investment, the country is set to attract international travelers and showcase its unparalleled heritage to the world. Discover Ethiopia’s remarkable new tourism destinations and experience the future of travel in this vibrant nation.

Addis Ababa, December 14, 2025 (ENA) —Namibia’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, Ruth Masake, has praised Ethiopia’s expanding wheat production as a model for Africa, while calling for stronger continental cooperation to address food insecurity. In an interview with the Ethiopian News Agency, Masake said Ethiopia’s wheat gains, alongside Namibia’s developing winter wheat schemes, demonstrate the continent’s growing potential to improve food production through coordinated efforts. Ethiopia’s rapid expansion of wheat production has emerged as one of Africa’s most notable agricultural success stories, transforming the country from a major wheat importer into an increasingly self-sufficient producer and exporter within a short period. For decades, wheat consumption in Ethiopia outpaced domestic production, forcing the country to rely heavily on imports to meet growing demand driven by population growth and urbanisation. However, sustained government commitment, combined with targeted investments and farmer mobilisation, has reshaped the sector, it was learned. Masake stressed that deeper collaboration among African states could unlock solutions to persistent agricultural challenges. She said harmonised policies, technical partnerships, and formal agreements are essential to accelerating progress and ensuring collective growth. She highlighted the importance of investing in education and technical capacity, particularly in plant health, animal disease management, and biosecurity, to strengthen intra-African agricultural trade. Masake also called for the removal of unnecessary import charges within the continent, warning that such barriers hinder regional trade and limit food availability. Continued dialogue among African nations, she added, is critical to building resilience against climate-related shocks. Emphasising innovation, Masake urged greater investment in drought-resistant seeds, climate-smart agricultural practices, and closer engagement with farmers, noting that knowledge-sharing among African experts could help maximise wheat’s nutritional and economic value. Meanwhile, Andrey Dalnov, a representative of the Russian Agricultural Bank, underscored the importance of mutual learning between Africa and Russia, particularly in understanding how climate change is reshaping agricultural production. Speaking at the International Conference on Ensuring Food Sovereignty for African Countries held in Addis Ababa in November 2025, Dalnov described the forum as a key platform for strengthening direct trade relations. He proposed a complementary production model in which African countries focus on high-value crops such as fruits and vegetables, while Russia supplies bulk grains. Dalnov also criticised unequal global value chains, citing Ethiopian coffee that sells for high prices internationally while farmers receive only a minimal share. Expanding direct trade partnerships, he said, would help ensure producers benefit more fairly from their products.

Ethiopia and South Korea have taken a major step toward deepening long-term economic and construction-sector partnerships through the Ethio–Korea Specialty Contractors Business Forum held in Addis Ababa. The forum opened the door for concrete project implementation by Korean contractors, backed by feasibility studies and risk analysis, signaling real investment momentum rather than just discussion. South Korea reaffirmed its position as one of Ethiopia’s key strategic partners in manufacturing, infrastructure, energy, ICT, digital systems, and industrial modernization. Korean companies were praised for their high-quality construction, engineering excellence, discipline, and accountability, setting strong benchmarks in Ethiopia. With Korea Specialty Contractors Association (KOSCA) representing 60,000 companies and 2 million experts, Korea committed to sharing advanced construction technology, skills development, education, and training, directly supporting Ethiopia’s ambitious infrastructure expansion. Ethiopian officials highlighted that the partnership aims to evolve from projects to long-term investment ecosystems, while Korea’s Embassy pledged full support to ensure a stable and investor-friendly environment. Overall, the forum marks a high-impact turning point toward shared growth, technology transfer, and sustained economic cooperation between Ethiopia and South Korea.

Addis Ababa, December 13, 2025 (ENA) —Outgoing New Zealand Ambassador Michael Upton praised Ethiopia’s visible physical transformation while reaffirming his country’s commitment to expanding engagement across diverse spheres. Following the completion of his tenure as New Zealand’s envoy to Ethiopia, Ambassador Upton recently held talks with President Taye Atske Selassie and subsequently gave an exclusive interview to ENA. Citing his conversation with the president, the ambassador noted that, despite the currently modest trade relationship, New Zealand is seeking to strengthen bilateral ties, particularly in the areas of trade, services, and technology. “We have a small trade relationship, and we are exploring ways to grow it, particularly in the areas of services and technology. We also have development cooperation in areas such as geothermal energy, food systems, climate-smart agriculture, and education scholarships,” he noted. He also highlighted New Zealand’s ongoing support in geothermal energy development, agro-food systems, climate-smart agriculture, education, scholarships, and humanitarian assistance. Upton also emphasized the importance of Ethiopia’s aspiration toward resilience and self-reliance. The ambassador acknowledged the visible transformations taking place in Addis Ababa, stating that the physical changes in the city are “undeniable.” He underlined the need to focus as well on addressing the human cost of development as part of a resilient nation including issues related to housing, public transportation, and support for vulnerable communities. Speaking on Ethiopia’s far-reaching reforms, Ambassador Upton observed that the country is advancing key initiatives, including homegrown economic reforms, the national dialogue process, and efforts toward accountability and transitional justice, describing them as complex, long-term processes unfolding in parallel. The ambassador shared his views on the geopolitical dynamics in the Horn of Africa, highlighting Ethiopia’s leading role and its commitment to maintaining dialogue with neighboring countries to promote regional stability. The outgoing ambassador expressed hope that win-win solutions would prevail through sustained dialogue to ensure durable regional stability. He particularly urged countries in the Horn of Africa to capitalize on their shared interests. Upton said New Zealand is finalizing arrangements with the African Union to establish a facility that will support Ethiopia and other countries in the region in geothermal development. He further confirmed that New Zealand will continue its scholarship program, with Ethiopian students set to travel to New Zealand in the coming year to study geothermal energy and agriculture. Diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and New Zealand are rooted in early informal support dating back to the 1930s, when New Zealand backed Ethiopia’s sovereignty at the League of Nations following Italy’s invasion of the country. This gesture is widely regarded as the foundation of the long-standing goodwill between the two nations. The relationship has since been strengthened through formal diplomatic engagement. Notably, New Zealand opened its embassy in Addis Ababa in June 2013. In turn, the Ethiopian Embassy in Canberra has been accredited to cover New Zealand, further solidifying bilateral ties.

Addis Ababa, December 13, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopia has reaffirmed its strong support for the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), emphasizing the importance of collective approaches to global challenges. State Minister of Finance Semereta Sewasew made the remarks while participating in the 120th Session of the OACPS Council of Ministers in Brussels, Belgium. In her address, Semereta highlighted the organisation’s achievements since its establishment in 1975, particularly its role in fostering South–South solidarity and international cooperation. She also outlined priority areas for OACPS intervention, including institutional reform, financial sustainability, trade and investment promotion, sustainable development, and peace and stability. The 120th Session is discussing key agenda items, such as measures to enhance the organisation’s effectiveness, preparations for the 11th OACPS Summit in March 2026, and other administrative matters.

Addis Ababa, December 13, 2025 (ENA) —Investment has been showing significant growth and revival in Ethiopia due to the activities undertaken to create enabling environment for investors, Ethiopian Investment Commissioner Zeleke Temesgen said. A joint consultative forum of investment executives from federal, regional, and city administrations is taking place in Harar city. Speaking on the occasion, Investment Commissioner Zeleke Temesgen said diverse measures have been taken to address challenges in the sector and leap forward. During the reform period, he noted that a conducive investment climate has been created for both domestic and foreign investors. The primary drivers behind the growth and revitalization are the revisions made to over 130 laws, proclamations, guidelines, and procedures. Accordingly, sectors closed to investors were opened up; and investments have been showing substantial growth and expansion. The Commissioner further expressed his hope that the forum will enhance collaboration, pinpoint challenges, and foster a coordinated approach to define roles and responsibilities. Harari Regional State Deputy Chief Administrator, Rosa Umer said efforts are underway to generate foreign exchange by effectively leveraging the manufacturing sector, diversifying products, and enhancing marketing strategies. She underscored that the regional government is committed to supporting investors in harnessing the region's abundant resources. The support will be complemented by strengthening comprehensive development initiatives, aimed at advancing the region's growth and overall prosperity, Rosa added. Federal, regional and city administrators, investment and industry bureau heads are taking part in the forum.

Addis Ababa, December 13, 2025 (ENA) — Ethiopian Airlines Cargo has been recognized as a major logistics partner in the development of the China–Belgium–Europe logistics bridge, underscoring its growing role in connecting global markets across Asia, Europe, and Africa. The recognition was conferred during a ceremony organized by the Belgian Government, in collaboration with the China Logistics Association, held in Guangzhou, China. Ethiopian Airlines Cargo was honored for its contribution to strengthening efficient, reliable, and seamless cargo connectivity along one of the world’s most critical trade corridors. Over the past year, the airline operated more than 2,256 dedicated cargo flights, transporting over 140 million kilograms of freight on the China–Belgium–China route. These operations have played a vital role in supporting international trade, reinforcing global supply chains, and enabling time-sensitive logistics.   The award highlights Ethiopian Airlines Cargo’s strategic importance in bridging key global markets, driven by its modern freighter fleet, expanding cargo network, and strong partnerships with international logistics providers. The recognition further reinforces Ethiopian Airlines Cargo’s position as a leading global air cargo carrier and a critical player in facilitating intercontinental trade and economic cooperation.