Addis Ababa, July 3, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Arba Minch continues to flourish as a hub of development, highlighting the city's ongoing transformation through major investment projects and expanding infrastructure. In a message shared on his official social media account, the Prime Minister disclosed that he visited the Kuriftu Resort and Spa in Arba Minch, which is under development on a 52,000 square meter site.   PM Abiy pointed out that the project comprises 53 luxury villas and is expected to create permanent employment opportunities for more than 300 people. He further noted that projects such as Kuriftu Resort illustrate how private investment can capitalize on the enabling infrastructure established through the government's development initiatives under the Medemer philosophy.   The Prime Minister also called on both local and international investors to seize the opportunities available in Ethiopia and invest in transformative projects that will further strengthen the country's tourism sector and unlock its vast potential.

Addis Ababa, July 3, 2026 (ENA) — Ambassadors and diplomats based in Addis Ababa, representing more than 40 countries and 10 international organizations, visited the historic town of Lalibela. They toured its world-renowned rock-hewn churches, which are among Ethiopia's most celebrated cultural and religious landmarks. The visit comes as Lalibela continues to receive growing international recognition. According to an international survey reported by Euronews, the UNESCO World Heritage site was ranked among the world's top five UNESCO World Heritage destinations by a group known as "UN Grandmasters," who are recognized for having visited numerous countries and heritage sites worldwide. Carved directly into solid rock more than 800 years ago, the churches of Lalibela are widely regarded as extraordinary achievements of architecture and engineering. They also remain living places of worship, preserving centuries of spiritual, historical, and cultural traditions. The Ministry of Tourism stated that the international recognition further strengthens Ethiopia's standing as one of the world's leading cultural tourism destinations, reflecting the country's rich civilization and unique historical heritage. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has consistently emphasized that tourism is more than just attracting visitors. He has stated that it is a means of showcasing Ethiopia's identity, preserving its heritage, and creating sustainable prosperity by harnessing the country's cultural and natural resources. Ethiopia has welcomed about 1.4 million international visitors so far this year, reflecting increasing global interest in the country's tourism sector. While Lalibela remains one of the country's most iconic attractions, officials noted that new tourism corridors and destinations are being developed across the country, expanding opportunities and supporting the government's strategy to make tourism a major driver of economic growth. The Ministry of Tourism also highlighted that efforts are being intensified to safeguard Lalibela from natural and human-induced threats. Conservation projects are advancing alongside improvements to tourism infrastructure to ensure the preservation of the historic site for future generations. For centuries, Lalibela has stood as a powerful symbol of faith, resilience, and architectural brilliance, and its growing international recognition reflects the world's renewed appreciation of Ethiopia's remarkable cultural heritage.

Addis Ababa, July 3, 2026 (ENA) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today inspected the ongoing Chano–Chencha Road Project, highlighting infrastructure and tourism as drivers of growth. The 29-kilometer project consists of the 22-kilometer Chano–Chencha road and the 7-kilometer Ezo–Gircha branch road. The construction is progressing steadily, with 13.3 kilometers already completed. In a social media post following the visit, the Prime Minister expressed satisfaction with the pace of the project. "I am pleased to see the steady progress of the Chano–Chencha Road Project. The 29-kilometer project, comprising the 22-kilometer Chano–Chencha road and the 7-kilometer Ezo–Gircha branch road, is advancing well, with 13.3 kilometers already completed. Once finished, it will improve connectivity, facilitate travel, and support local economic development. I look forward to its successful completion," he stated. The Prime Minister also visited the recently renovated Dorze Lodge, a community-managed tourism destination that has welcomed visitors since 2005. Situated on a cool mountainous ridge covering 40,000 square meters, the lodge offers sweeping panoramic views of Lakes Abaya and Chamo, as well as the striking natural landmark known as God's Bridge. Highlighting the site's unique appeal, PM Abiy noted that the combination of upgraded transport infrastructure and enhanced tourism facilities will unlock the region's vast economic, environmental, and cultural potential. He emphasized that improved road access will not only make travel easier for residents and visitors alike but also create new opportunities for local businesses, promote tourism, and strengthen livelihoods across the area. Inviting both domestic and international visitors to explore the region, the Prime Minister said: "I invite our citizens, Ethiopians in the diaspora, and travelers from around the world to visit and experience this extraordinary natural beauty and rich cultural heritage."

Addis Ababa, July 3, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopian Airlines has been honored with the prestigious ‘Connectivity Award’ at the 2026 Aviation & Tourism Award Ceremony hosted by Air Transport News. The continent's largest carrier secured the accolade in recognition of its masterful network expansion, seamless connectivity, and robust joint ventures strategically established throughout the African continent. This premier recognition adds to an illustrious portfolio of recent institutional milestones.   The continent's flagship carrier was crowned the Best Airline in Africa at the 2026 APEX Passenger Choice Awards, a distinguished title determined entirely by independently verified customer feedback. This major achievement highlighted the airline's steady focus on delivering exceptional cabin comfort, superb onboard services, and stellar operational reliability across its expanding global network. The airline also secured a remarkable triple victory at the 2026 PAX Readership Awards held in Hamburg, Germany. The carrier claimed top honors for Outstanding Food Service by a Carrier in Africa, Best Overall Passenger Experience in Africa, and Best Children's Amenity Kit. These accolades underscore a persistent commitment to blending renowned Ethiopian hospitality with global best practices to elevate the passenger journey.   Furthermore, the carrier maintains a historic multi-year streak as the recipient of the Skytrax World Airline Award for Best Airline in Africa, alongside holding an esteemed APEX Four-Star Global Airline rating. Guided by its ambitious Vision 2035 strategy, the aviation giant continues to invest in ultra-modern aircraft and robust infrastructure while successfully pursuing a multi-hub strategy through regional partnerships in Lomé, Lilongwe, Lusaka, and Kinshasa.

Addis Ababa, July 3, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia has achieved a historic milestone in its coffee industry, generating a record 3 billion USD in export earnings during the current fiscal year, its highest coffee export revenue on record. The achievement was announced by Minister of Agriculture Addisu Arega, who credited the success to the collective efforts of farmers, exporters, cooperatives, investors, and government institutions working across the coffee value chain. "It is accomplished! Ethiopia has successfully achieved its target of generating three billion USD from coffee exports this budget year. Congratulations to all!" the minister stated in a social media post. The milestone underscores the remarkable growth of Ethiopia's coffee sector over the past several years. Coffee export earnings rose from 1.4 billion USD in 2023 to 1.43 billion USD in 2024, before climbing sharply to 2.65 billion USD in 2025 and reaching the record 3 billion USD this fiscal year. The strong performance reflects a series of reforms aimed at boosting production, improving quality, expanding access to international markets, and increasing the competitiveness of Ethiopian coffee. The government has also placed greater emphasis on value addition, agro-processing, quality assurance, and traceability to meet growing global demand for premium and sustainably produced coffee. As the birthplace of Arabica coffee and home to one of the world's richest reservoirs of coffee genetic diversity, Ethiopia continues to strengthen its position in the global specialty coffee market by leveraging its unique heritage and reputation for high-quality beans. Environmental sustainability has also become a central pillar of the country's coffee development strategy. Through the Green Legacy Initiative, millions of coffee seedlings and indigenous trees have been planted across the country, helping restore ecosystems, strengthen climate resilience, and support the long-term productivity of coffee-growing areas in the face of climate change. Coffee remains one of Ethiopia's most strategic export commodities, accounting for roughly one-third of the country's export earnings and supporting the livelihoods of more than four million smallholder farmers. The record-breaking export performance highlights the sector's growing contribution to foreign exchange generation, rural incomes, and national economic development. The latest achievement reinforces Ethiopia's ambition to further expand its global coffee presence by investing in sustainable production, value addition, and market diversification, while building on its longstanding reputation as the birthplace of Arabica coffee.

Addis Ababa, July 3, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Ethiopia's Corridor Development Program is designed to improve the quality of life for citizens by creating more comfortable, modern, and livable urban environments. Speaking after visiting the completed corridor development project in Arba Minch city, South Ethiopia region, the Prime Minister highlighted that the initiative features modern asphalt roads, energy-efficient street lighting, digital display screens, and upgraded public spaces. These facilities are already serving residents and enhancing the city's urban landscape, the Premier revealed.   "The primary goal of our Corridor Development Program is to make the lives of our citizens more comfortable and modern," Prime Minister Abiy shared on X. PM Abiy further noted that the completed infrastructure has been commissioned and is now delivering tangible benefits to the public. The Government of Ethiopia is currently implementing an ambitious nationwide urban transformation agenda aimed at creating more livable cities through the integration of high-quality infrastructure with environmentally sustainable development.   The initiative prioritizes modern transport networks, green public spaces, resilient infrastructure, and smart urban planning to enhance the quality of life for citizens while promoting sustainable economic growth, it was learned.

Addis Ababa, July 2, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia has saved about 5 billion USD in foreign currency during the current Ethiopian fiscal year through expanded domestic manufacturing and import substitution, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said. In the early hours of this afternoon, the Prime Minister visited the Yo Holding Coal Factory in the Gamo Zone, where he highlighted Ethiopia's growing success in replacing imported industrial inputs with domestic production. He recalled that only a few years ago Ethiopia relied heavily on imported coal, spending nearly USD 300 million annually to meet industrial demand.   Today, coal is being produced locally, supplying domestic industries while creating opportunities for future exports. The PM noted that the expansion of domestic manufacturing extends well beyond coal production, with a wide range of locally produced industrial goods contributing to the country's import substitution strategy. He said these combined efforts have enabled Ethiopia to save 5 billion USD during the current fiscal year. The success is hugely strengthening macroeconomic stability, reducing dependence on imports, and supporting the country's broader industrialization agenda, he added.   Prime Minister Abiy reaffirmed that Ethiopia will continue to deepen its industrial reforms, expand domestic production, and strengthen value-added manufacturing as key pillars of sustainable economic growth and national competitiveness.

Addis Ababa, July 2, 2026 (ENA) —Digitally monitored wildlife protection plays a crucial role not only in wildlife conservation but also in promoting the tourism sector by providing information on wildlife populations and destination landscapes, Tourism State Minister Seleshi Girma said. The state minister noted that information technology is receiving growing attention for data collection, organization, and technology-driven information distribution, with wildlife management, tourism satellite accounts, and tourist management among the sectors undergoing digitalization. Speaking at a validation workshop on a digital platform piloted for managing protected areas at Bale Mountains National Park and Senkele Swayne's Hartebeest Sanctuary today, Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority Director-General, Kumera Wakjira, said the project piloted in 106 protected areas will serve as a springboard for expanding digital management across the country's remaining protected wildlife areas. The platform offers predictive capabilities that can help address overlapping land-use interests and support long-term planning, he added. He added that it also serves as an early-warning tool to help authorities prepare for changing environmental conditions that could affect biodiversity. The Director-General further highlighted the platform's contribution to tourism destination development, scientific research, and evidence-based decision-making, noting that it enables more effective management of Ethiopia's protected wildlife areas. Ethiopian Space Science and Geospatial Institute Director-General, Abdissa Yilma, said on his part the project integrates digital, satellite, geospatial, and drone technologies to strengthen wildlife management. The technologies will support the management of Ethiopia's rich biodiversity resources, which serve as pillars of the economy and tourism development, he added. According to the Director-General, wildlife management had previously been largely manual and unstructured, with limited coverage due to inadequate technological capacity, a gap the project seeks to address.

Addis Ababa, July 2, 2026 (ENA) — Strengthening domestic production through local capabilities is the cornerstone of Ethiopia’s economic independence and sovereignty, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said. The Prime Minister made the remark during a visit to the Yo Holding Coal Factory in the Gamo Zone today. ‘‘By supplying the needs of our industries with locally produced products, the factory has replaced imports and reduced the need for foreign products. It has also created employment opportunities for local residents,’’ the premier wrote on his social media post. He further said that the journey to develop the country’s natural resources through hard work and domestic investment will continue with renewed determination. "In doing so, we will strengthen our economic sovereignty.’’ The factory that has been mining coal, washing, and processing has significantly reduced the nation's reliance on imports by supplying high-quality, locally produced coal to domestic industries, while simultaneously creating vital employment opportunities for local residents. Yo is a coal mining and washing company known for its excellence in the extraction, processing, and reliable supply of high-quality coal in Ethiopia.

Addis Ababa, July 2, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has inaugurated the Hamasa Model Village, a landmark project under Ethiopia's Rural Corridor Development Program, marking another significant milestone in the country's efforts to transform rural communities. Built on 79.4 hectares of land, the model village reflects a comprehensive approach to rural modernization by combining improved infrastructure, climate-smart agriculture, and livelihood-enhancing initiatives aimed at boosting productivity while raising the standard of living for farming communities.   Designed as a model for inclusive rural development, the village features modern sanitation facilities, well-organized livestock shelters, vegetable gardens, biogas systems, and beekeeping sites. The integrated facilities are expected to improve public health, strengthen food security, promote environmental sustainability, and create diversified sources of household income, laying the foundation for more resilient rural economies. In a social media post following the inauguration, Prime Minister Abiy described the Hamasa Model Village as a tangible outcome of Ethiopia's ongoing reform agenda. “This model village is a tangible result of our reform efforts, elevating the dignity, comfort, and economic well-being of rural communities to a higher level,” he noted.   The Premier further underscored the government's commitment to building modern, prosperous, and self-reliant rural communities through strategic investments in infrastructure, sustainable agriculture, and essential public services. He stressed that the initiative is designed not only to enhance agricultural productivity but also to elevate the dignity, comfort, and overall well-being of rural families. By integrating quality housing, modern sanitation, renewable energy solutions, and income-generating opportunities within a single development framework, the project seeks to deliver lasting and inclusive prosperity for its residents.   The Hamasa Model Village also exemplifies the broader ambitions of Ethiopia's Rural Corridor Development Program, it was learned.

Addis Ababa, July 2, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopian scholars said the country's longstanding pursuit of secure and sustainable access to the sea is increasingly gaining recognition within the international community as a legitimate national interest. Approached by ENA, the scholars emphasized that the initiative is being advanced through peaceful diplomacy, international legal principles, and a framework of mutual benefit. They further noted that Ethiopia's quest for maritime access is rooted in historical, geographical, economic, and legal considerations, and has become an important policy agenda aimed at supporting the country's long-term development, national security, and regional economic integration. They stressed that Ethiopia is pursuing the issue through diplomatic engagement, dialogue, and internationally recognized legal frameworks, while promoting cooperation with neighboring countries based on shared prosperity and mutual benefit. Ethiopia's access to the Red Sea, they observed, remains closely linked to the country's historical legacy, centuries-old statehood, strategic security interests, and economic transformation. Under the government's Medemer (Synergy) philosophy, the country has intensified discussions on securing reliable sea access through peaceful partnerships designed to foster regional connectivity, economic integration, and collective development. According to the scholars, Ethiopia continues to pursue diplomatic and legal avenues to address what it considers a longstanding national aspiration while emphasizing that any future arrangement should create benefits for all parties involved. Lecturer of Diplomacy and International Relations at the Ethiopian Public Service University, Endale Nigussie, described access to the sea as a strategic component of national interest that strengthens a country's comprehensive sovereignty and economic resilience. He stated that Ethiopia's demand extends beyond historical and geographical considerations. Endale also reflected on the practical needs of one of Africa's largest and fastest-growing populations. According to him, sustained diplomatic engagement and a proactive foreign policy have helped elevate the issue onto the international agenda through dialogue grounded in international norms and scientific analysis. Endale further argued that Ethiopia's pursuit of sea access should be viewed not as a zero-sum proposition but as an opportunity to expand regional cooperation, strengthen economic interdependence, and promote lasting peace, stability, and prosperity across the Horn of Africa. He added that the international community is increasingly recognizing that facilitating Ethiopia's access to the sea through peaceful and mutually beneficial arrangements can generate shared economic opportunities for the wider region. Ethiopia has no intention of disadvantaging any neighboring country, the Lecturer underscored. The scholar also cited Ethiopia's experience in advancing major national initiatives, including the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and its regional green development initiatives—as examples of the country's ability to pursue strategic objectives through resilience, diplomacy, and broad national participation. He called on Ethiopians to strengthen national unity and collective commitment in advancing what he described as a generational national objective through peaceful diplomatic engagement. Similarly, Lecturer of Leadership and International Relations at Unity University, Getiye Tirfe, said Ethiopia's loss of direct sea access resulted from historical geopolitical developments that have continued to shape the region's political and economic landscape. He argued that restoring dependable maritime access through peaceful means would not only serve Ethiopia's national interests but also enhance regional trade, investment, connectivity, and broader economic cooperation. He further stated that the issue has increasingly emerged as a legitimate regional and international agenda centered on sustainable development, economic integration, and collective prosperity. Ethiopia maintains that securing reliable maritime access through peaceful negotiation, regional cooperation, and mutually beneficial arrangements constitutes a legitimate national interest consistent with international legal principles, it was learned.

Addis Ababa, July 1, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopian Airlines has launched a new passenger service to Lyon, France, expanding its European network and reinforcing the longstanding partnership between Ethiopia and France. The inaugural ceremony was attended by Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Executive Officer Mesfin Tasew, French Ambassador to Ethiopia Alexis Lamek, and senior executives of the airline. Speaking at the launch, Mesfin said Lyon is Ethiopian Airlines' 23rd destination in Europe and its third destination in France, following Paris and Marseille. He noted that the new route demonstrates the airline's commitment to expanding its global network while deepening bilateral ties between Ethiopia and France. "The launch of the Lyon route will further strengthen the relationship between our two countries and create greater opportunities for trade, tourism, investment, and cultural exchange," he added. The CEO also disclosed that Ethiopian Airlines plans to launch five additional international destinations up to the end of 2026 as part of its continued global expansion strategy. "As Africa's leading airline, we will continue investing to support the economic integration of the continent and strengthen connectivity between Africa and the rest of the world," he said. The CEO also invited French companies to take part in the development of the Bishoftu International Airport project, describing it as a significant opportunity for investment and long-term cooperation. French Ambassador to Ethiopia Alexis Lamek welcomed the launch of the new route, saying it reflects the growing partnership between Ethiopia and France. "I am pleased to see Ethiopia and France continuing to expand their relationship," the ambassador said, adding, "The new direct service will further strengthen economic, cultural, and people to people ties between our two countries." The inaugural flight to Lyon, one of France's leading economic and cultural centers, is scheduled to depart on Thursday that will start regular passenger services. The new route further consolidates Ethiopian Airlines' position as Africa's largest carrier and advances its strategy of strengthening Addis Ababa's role as a major aviation hub linking Africa with Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas.

Addis Ababa, June 30, 2026 (ENA) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has described tourism as a new engine of Ethiopia's economic growth. According to the premier, the country is repositioning the sector to drive development by capitalizing on its rich natural, historical, and cultural assets. In an exclusive interview with the National Broadcast Corporation (NBC), the Prime Minister elaborated the government's new approach is guided by the theme, "Tourism: The New Economic Motor". Ethiopia is shifting from recognizing its tourism potential to strategically developing and promoting it, he added. PM Abiy further emphasized that understanding Ethiopia's tourism industry requires distinguishing the country's immense potential from the longstanding challenges that have prevented the sector from reaching its full capacity. Although Ethiopia possesses exceptional tourism resources, awareness and promotion of these attractions have remained limited, while the absence of well-developed destinations and other structural constraints have hindered the industry's growth, he noted. Ethiopia is home to more than 6,000 plant species, creating vast opportunities for scientific research and nature-based tourism, he said, adding that the country also hosts unique endemic wildlife found nowhere else in the world, including the Ethiopian wolf, the Walia ibex, and the Gelada baboon, as well as numerous rare bird species inhabiting the Awash and Bale ecosystems. Ethiopia is home to a highly valued falcon species sought by international enthusiasts, although stronger global promotion and market linkages are still needed, he added. Highlighting the country's geographical diversity, PM Abiy said Ethiopia stretches from the summit of Mount Ras Dashen, the country's highest peak, to the Danakil Depression, one of the world's lowest and hottest places. He further emphasized Ethiopia's favorable climate, noting that travelers can reach the country's cool highlands within about three hours from the scorching Middle East or escape Europe's winter to enjoy warm weather. According to him, visitors can experience the Simien Mountains National Park, explore the historic castles of Gondar, visit the island monasteries of Lake Tana, and enjoy the lakeside city of Bahir Dar during a single journey. He also pointed to Ethiopia's rich historical heritage, including centuries-old manuscripts dating back 800 to 900 years, valuable artifacts, and the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, which continue to attract historians, researchers, and international tourists. PM Abiy highlighted the Bale Mountains as another major destination where visitors can explore crater lakes, observe rare wildlife, and climb peaks rising above 4,300 meters above sea level. Descending from the mountains, travelers enter the Harenna Forest, known for its rich biodiversity, waterfalls, birdlife, and the black-maned lion, while the Dinsho area offers expansive national parks and Afro-alpine landscapes. The Prime Minister also drew attention to the Sof Omar Cave system near Robe, describing it as evidence of an ancient and advanced civilization. According to PM Abiy, the area was historically a center of Islamic learning where scholars proficient in more than 60 languages gathered to teach. An approximately 800-year-old mosque and a remarkable artificial lake remain preserved at the site. In the Afar Region, he highlighted the paleoanthropological significance of the area as the cradle of humankind, alongside attractions including the Erta Ale volcano, palm plantations, and the colorful sulfur springs and salt flats of the Danakil Depression. Moving south, the premier said visitors can experience the Gamo Highlands around Arba Minch, the cultural traditions of the Dorze people, Lakes Chamo and Abaya with their giant crocodiles, and Nechisar National Park, all located along a connected tourism route. The Prime Minister concluded that few countries offer the diversity found in Ethiopia, where ancient history, dramatic landscapes, unique wildlife, vibrant cultures, the heritage of coffee and teff, and historic landmarks such as Adwa can all be experienced under a single tourist visa.

Addis Ababa, June 30, 2026 (ENA) —The Ethiopian government has designated tourism as one of the country’s core economic pillars to secure a greater share of the rapidly expanding global tourism economy and permanently safeguard national strategic interests, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stated. Speaking in an exclusive interview with NBC Ethiopia under the theme “The New Economic Motor,” Prime Minister Abiy outlined the strategic vision behind elevating tourism to one of Ethiopia’s five priority economic sectors. The Premier described the industry as a powerful catalyst for sustainable growth, employment creation, investment, and national transformation. The Prime Minister said the government’s overarching ambition is to leave future generations a prosperous, competitive, and dignified Ethiopia. Achieving that vision, he noted, required extensive research and careful policy deliberations to identify sectors capable of generating both immediate economic returns and long-term structural transformation. For decades, Ethiopia relied predominantly on agriculture as the backbone of its economy. While acknowledging agriculture’s continued importance, Prime Minister Abiy said the sector alone has been unable to generate the broad-based industrial growth needed to transform the country’s economic landscape. He stressed that sustainable national prosperity demands a diversified economic model in which multiple sectors reinforce one another. It was within this broader development strategy, he explained, that tourism was identified as a strategic pillar capable of driving growth across the wider economy. Highlighting the immense scale of the global tourism industry, the Prime Minister noted that it generates approximately 12.6 trillion U.S. dollars annually. Countries such as the United States earn around 215 billion dollars, Spain 107 billion dollars, Thailand 95 billion dollars, while Egypt generates nearly 15 billion dollars from tourism each year. “Ethiopia and Africa must ask what share of this enormous global wealth they are capturing,” PM Abiy said, arguing that attracting a greater portion of international tourism revenue would provide the financial resources needed to strengthen other key sectors of the economy. He also pointed to the vast number of international travelers visiting leading destinations each year. France welcomes more than 100 million tourists annually, Mexico nearly 97 million, Malaysia about 40 million, while Morocco attracts nearly 20 million visitors, making it one of Africa’s leading tourism destinations. According to the Prime Minister, these figures demonstrate tourism’s extraordinary capacity to generate national income, create jobs, and strengthen economic resilience. Unlike traditional exports, tourism brings consumers directly to the country, allowing visitors to spend on locally produced goods and services without the logistical costs associated with exporting products abroad. “When tourists come to Ethiopia, they bring not only their spending power but also knowledge, business connections, investment opportunities, and cultural exchange,” the Premier said, emphasizing that tourism creates value across multiple sectors of the economy. He added that international visitors purchase Ethiopian manufactured products, traditional clothing, handicrafts, local cuisine, and cultural experiences, creating immediate domestic markets for local industries and supporting thousands of small businesses and informal enterprises—from artisans and craft producers to traditional coffee vendors and service providers. Beyond generating income, tourism also serves as an important gateway for foreign direct investment, the Prime Minister noted. Many international visitors identify untapped business opportunities during their travels and later return as investors, contributing capital to sectors with significant growth potential. Tourism revenues also provide critical resources for preserving Ethiopia’s historical heritage, protecting natural ecosystems, developing eco-tourism destinations, and expanding modern public infrastructure, he added. PM Abiy further emphasized tourism’s role in strengthening national unity and social cohesion. As Ethiopians travel throughout the country, they gain a deeper appreciation of the nation’s diverse cultures, histories, and traditions, fostering mutual understanding, patriotism, and a stronger sense of shared national identity. “The government’s decision to make tourism a strategic economic pillar is a deliberate national choice to secure Ethiopia’s rightful place in the global tourism economy, expand economic opportunities for its people, and safeguard the country’s long-term national interests,” the Prime Minister concluded.

Addis Ababa, June 30, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia's Natural Capital Accounting (NCA) Roadmap and the 1st Edition Land Account Report were launched today. Ethiopia's Natural Capital Accounting (NCA) Roadmap integrates environmental assets—such as land, forests, and water—into national economic planning; and the effort establishes a robust framework for assessing the sustainability of the country's economic development. The other document, Ethiopia's 1st Edition Land Account, on the other hand, is a foundational milestone for the country's climate resilience goals. The accounts map land use and land cover dynamics using satellite imagery, geographic information systems (GIS), and standardized data classifications. They are expected to provide a physical and economic baseline that helps government agencies track the impacts of large-scale landscape management, reforestation, and land degradation neutrality projects, it was learned. Speaking at the launching ceremony, Ministry of Planning and Development State Minister, Bereket Fesehatsion, said the ceremony is not only about presenting two important documents. It is also about affirming a shared national vision grounded in evidence-based policymaking, responsible stewardship of natural resources, and a firm commitment to building a future in which economic progress and environmental sustainability advance hand-in-hand. Ethiopia’s Land Accounts represent will not be the last as institutional capacities expand and the methods continue to improve, so too will our understanding of the full wealth of this nation, he added. According to him, data alone does not drive change as implementation requires partnership. The State Minister stressed the need for concerted efforts of all stakeholders — government institutions, the private sector, civil society, research institutions, academia, and international development partners to join hands in this shared endeavor. "Together, we must ensure that these accounts inform policy, guide investment, and shape decision-making at every level, he underscored. Noting the progress achieved demonstrates what is possible when institutions collaborate with clarity of purpose and shared commitment, Bereket stated that the Ministry remains fully committed to embedding natural capital accounting at the heart of Ethiopia’s planning systems. World Bank Operation Manager Juliana Victor, on her part, said such efforts would have significant value to protect and conserve natural resources. These launchings actually reflect a stronger approach to development, she noted. ''Natural capital has not been sufficiently reflected in our economic decision-making, and when nature is not counted, it is often undervalued and misused. When it is undervalued, it’s also not easily integrated. Thus, the road map will also help to change that situation," the Manager added. According to her, this achievement reflects many years of partnership, institution building, and technical support under the World Bank's resident and green development program advisory services and analytics.

Addis Ababa, June 30, 2026 (ENA) — The private sector has played an irreplaceable role in driving the current revitalization of the tourism industry, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said today. The Prime Minister made the remarks during an exclusive interview with NBC Ethiopia. He outlined that initiatives within the tourism ecosystem are categorized into four core pillars: tourist destinations, hospitality accommodations, transport networks, and digital infrastructure. Over the past 7 years, remarkable achievements have been registered through the landmark Dine for Sheger, Dine for the Nation, and Dine for Generation initiatives. The Dine for Sheger project has visibly transformed Addis Ababa, while the Dine for the Nation initiative has spurred development across various regional localities. Under the Dine for Generation framework, projects in Arba Minch and Jimma are nearing completion, with the Arba Minch site scheduled to be inaugurated in the coming days. These overarching national initiatives continue to yield tangible, transformative impacts across urban landscapes. In just the past few months, 7 additional airports have been constructed, coupled with the extensive expansion of road networks to enhance accessibility. The Gebeta projects have been instrumental in systematically dismantling structural bottlenecks and addressing long-standing limitations in Ethiopia’s tourism sector. The Prime Minister reiterated that the private sector's contribution has been vital and irreplaceable in realizing the current momentum and success of the industry. He also commended the profound role of the public, emphasizing that active community engagement has been a driving force behind the seamless execution of these national development endeavors.

Addis Ababa, June 30, 2026 (ENA) — The ongoing development of heritage sites, palaces, and tourist destinations that the Ethiopian government has been carrying out in various areas aims to not only preserve heritage sites but also make the tourism sector an economic engine, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said. The Prime Minister noted that the tangible achievements registered in the tourism sector demonstrate the government’s commitment to acting as a guardian, restorer, and custodian of heritages rather than a force of destruction. More than 35 artifacts that were stolen and looted from Ethiopia at various times have been recovered, the PM said, adding that the magnificent throne of Emperor Haile Selassie will soon be returned to its homeland. "We are restorers and protectors of heritages, not destroyers," the premier stressed, explaining that meticulous care has been taken during the restoration of historical sites across various regions to preserve authenticity and integrity. Citing specific examples, he mentioned the Castle of Fasilides in Gondar, which had suffered from neglect and deterioration for a century. The sophisticated and careful restoration recently completed ensures the palace will be preserved for the next 50 to 60 years, standing as a source of national pride. He also noted that the delicate restoration of the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela is currently underway, guided by international experts. Furthermore, the Sof Omar Cave, previously inaccessible due to infrastructure deficits and other challenges, has undergone a major transformation to ensure a seamless experience for tourists. The fortified city of Jugol has similarly been beautifully restored, maintaining its ancient characteristics. Reflecting on the National Palace, PM Abiy recalled its former state of neglect, characterized by dilapidated structures, discarded vintage vehicles, and a flooded underground section. Today, it has been revitalized into a magnificent landmark that welcomes millions of visitors. Restoring the palace’s antique vehicles required immense effort, he noted, dismissing criticisms regarding mismanagement of heritages as unfounded and detached from the reality. The PM emphasized that the government's approach to destination development is anchored on the principles of quality and authenticity. The newly built and restored landmarks celebrate Ethiopia's diverse tapestry, ensuring that all faiths, regions, and histories are equitably represented to showcase the collective identity of the nation. Executed by both domestic and international professionals, these projects benefit from rigorous oversight and leadership attention, guaranteeing the highest standards of construction and restoration. The strides made in the tourism sector have successfully unveiled Ethiopia’s treasures to its citizens and the world. Expressing immense satisfaction with these breakthroughs, PM Abiy concluded that the government has practically demonstrated its role as an illuminator and enhancer of the nation's heritages.

  Addis Ababa, June 30, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia’s proposed federal budget for the 2019 Ethiopian fiscal year (2026/27) places a strong emphasis on protecting low-income households, sustaining the country’s economic reform agenda, and accelerating inclusive growth, Finance Minister Ahmed Shide told MPs today. Presenting the record 2.339 trillion Birr draft federal budget to Members of the parliament (MPs) the House of People’s Representatives, Ahmed said the spending plan is designed to consolidate the gains of Ethiopia’s Homegrown Economic Reform Program while safeguarding the purchasing power of citizens amid the rising cost of living.   “The budget has been prepared with special consideration for low-income segments of society and is expected to have a positive impact on the livelihoods of Ethiopian families,” the minister said during the parliamentary session. The minister elaborated that the proposed budget incorporates targeted subsidies for key social expenditures to cushion vulnerable households, strengthen social protection. Ahmed also indicated that the budget is also designated to mitigate inflationary pressures, while also addressing longstanding macroeconomic imbalances through prudent fiscal management. He said the budget aligns with the country’s Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda and the Ten-Year Development Plan, both of which have helped Ethiopia maintain economic resilience despite domestic and global challenges. The minister noted that Ethiopia expects its economy to expand by 10.1 percent during the upcoming fiscal year, building on an average annual growth rate of 6.8 percent recorded between the 2018/19 and 2023/24 fiscal years and a 9.2 percent expansion in 2024/25.   The econom y is also projected to grow by 10.2 percent by the end of the current Ethiopian fiscal year, reflecting the continued momentum generated by the government’s comprehensive economic reforms. Th finance minister also stressed that Ethiopia’s fiscal policy will continue to balance economic growth with social welfare, ensuring that investments support both long-term development and the immediate needs of citizens. The proposed budget allocates more than 1.2 trillion Birr for recurrent expenditures, 568.2 billion Birr for capital investment, 520.6 billion Birr in transfers to regional states, and 14 billion Birr to support regional Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) initiatives. More than half of the total budget, 52.9 percent—is earmarked for recurrent expenditures, including debt servicing, fertilizer and petroleum subsidies, and the delivery of essential public services. Priority sectors receiving significant allocations include education, healthcare, social services, energy, infrastructure, agriculture, and industrial development, reflecting the government’s strategy to foster broad-based and sustainable economic transformation. Minister Ahmed also underscored the government’s commitment to strengthening domestic revenue mobilization by broadening the tax base, enabling public finances to grow alongside the expanding economy while reducing long-term fiscal vulnerabilities.   On international cooperation, the minister said Ethiopia will continue to deepen partnerships with development partners while maintaining its policy independence. “Our partnerships with international allies will continue to strengthen in the coming years while preserving our country’s policy independence,” he said, adding that Ethiopia will pursue only those partnerships that contribute to economic stability and improve the well-being of its people. Economists and policy analysts say the record draft budget reflects the government's effort to balance sustained public investment with fiscal discipline, aiming to strengthen macroeconomic stability while accelerating Ethiopia's long-term economic transformation.

Addis Ababa, June 29, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia has advanced discussions on its National Electrification Program (NEP 3.0), bringing together government institutions, development partners, the private sector, and international stakeholders. The discussions aimed at charting a roadmap toward achieving universal access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity by 2035. The consultation, organized by the Ministry of Water and Energy (MoWE) at the Hilton Hotel today, focused on the implementation strategy for NEP 3.0, the country's latest long-term electrification framework designed to expand both grid and off-grid electricity access while accelerating inclusive economic development. Opening the forum, State Minister of Water and Energy Sultan Welle described NEP 3.0 as Ethiopia's strategic blueprint for delivering universal electricity access by 2035. "Reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity is not merely an infrastructure objective. It is the foundation for economic transformation, improved livelihoods and inclusive social development," the State Minister said.   He noted that Ethiopia has made significant progress under the previous phases of the National Electrification Program by expanding electricity access, strengthening institutional capacity, and mobilizing investments. He added that NEP 3.0 seeks to build on these achievements while creating greater opportunities for private-sector participation to accelerate nationwide electrification. The discussion brought together representatives from the World Bank, Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP), Ethiopian Electric Utility (EEU), government institutions, development partners, non-governmental organizations, and other key stakeholders. The updated electrification roadmap follows recent World Bank findings indicating that approximately 65 percent of Ethiopians had access to electricity in 2025, although access remains uneven, with rural communities continuing to lag behind urban areas.   According to the Ministry, NEP 3.0 will employ advanced geospatial least-cost planning to identify the most efficient mix of grid expansion, mini-grids, and standalone renewable energy systems. The program also prioritizes demand forecasting, investment planning, and the identification of high-impact electrification projects to maximize economic and social benefits while ensuring efficient use of public resources. The strategy further aims to strengthen institutional coordination, improve financial sustainability, reduce technical and commercial losses, and enhance service quality across Ethiopia's rapidly expanding electricity network. Ethiopia has significantly expanded its electricity infrastructure over the past two decades, increasing the number of grid-connected towns and villages while investing in hydroelectric, geothermal, wind, solar, and regional power interconnections.   However, despite notable progress, an estimated 35 percent of households still lack access to electricity, underscoring the need for accelerated implementation of the country's next electrification phase. With NEP 3.0, Ethiopia seeks to close the remaining access gap by combining public investment, private-sector participation, and international development support to deliver universal electricity access by 2035. This objective viewed as critical to accelerating industrialization, improving public services, enhancing rural livelihoods, and driving long-term economic growth, it was learned.

Addis Ababa, June 29, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia and Italy have today signed a €70 million concessional budget support loan to be utilized for the third Development Policy Operation (DPO3), which will be aligned with financing to be obtained from the World Bank. The agreement was signed between Finance Minister Ahmed Shide and the Italian Ambassador to Ethiopia, Sem Fabrizi. Speaking during the signing ceremony, the Finance Minister stated that the agreement comes at a pivotal juncture in Ethiopia's macroeconomic transition, where sustaining reform momentum and safeguarding stability remain paramount. According to him, the agreement directly supports Ethiopia's transformative agenda under the Development Policy Operation (DPO3), which focuses on strengthening economic management and fiscal sustainability, promoting private sector-led growth, and enhancing resilience, inclusion, and climate sustainability. He further stated that the supported reforms are designed to address binding structural constraints across key sectors. In energy, they will expand access and enable private participation. In agriculture, they will strengthen markets and productivity. In water, they will improve sustainability and climate resilience. These reforms will translate into tangible outcomes: expanded access to essential services, increased productivity and incomes, and greater resilience to shocks, particularly for vulnerable communities. “Today's signing represents more than financing. It is a strong vote of confidence in Ethiopia's reform trajectory and a reaffirmation of our enduring partnership with Italy. Together, we will continue to advance inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth for our people,” he said. Ambassador Sem Fabrizi, for his part, stated that the agreement aims to support macroeconomic reforms carried out by the Government of Ethiopia under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed regarding the climate-resilient policy that Ethiopia is embarking upon. The agreement we signed today will be utilized to carry out the third Development Policy Operation (DPO3) aligned with financing obtained from the World Bank, he added.