Addis Ababa July 13, 2025 (ENA) -- Ethiopia's National ID Program, Fayda, is rapidly transforming the landscape of identity and access to services, with 19.1 million residents registered as of 10 July 2025, according to Gabriella Abrham, Legal and Policy Director at the National ID Program. "We have registration centers all over Ethiopia," Gabriella affirmed. She also said this expansive outreach lies in crucial partnerships with Ethio Telecom and EthioPost, whose extensive physical presence across the nation have been instrumental in providing in-person registration services. Fayda is not just a concept, but a tangible reality for communities in every corner of Ethiopia, she noted. The program's architects have made deliberate choices to maximize physical access, she said. "We have leveraged existing resources of shops, offices, centers of Ethio Telecom and Ethio Post, as well as other government entities, including regional offices of Ministry of Revenue bureaus," she explained. This ingenious approach minimizes the need for new infrastructure, making registration convenient and accessible to diverse populations, regardless of their proximity to major urban centers. At the heart of Fayda's design is its profound commitment to legal and social inclusion, she said, citing the Ethiopian Digital Identification Proclamation 1284, as a testament to this principle. Gabriella stressed that the proclamation entitles eligibility beyond citizens. "Residents in Ethiopia are eligible to have Fayda ID," she emphasized. "This would mean that it's not only citizens who are entitled to have access to Fayda ID, but also legal residents, including refugees, expats, diplomats, people working in this country in a legal manner who have permits," she elaborated. She also noted this inclusive policy sets Fayda as a pioneering initiative, particularly for often-marginalized groups like refugees. "By providing them with a formal digital identity, Fayda opens doors to essential services and opportunities, fostering a sense of belonging and empowering those in vulnerable situations," she stated. According to her, Fayda’s transformative power lies in its seamless integration with over 55 public and private institutions, making it a gateway to vital financial services like bank account opening and transactions. In sectors requiring digital ID, Fayda simplifies processes, reducing bureaucracy and boosting efficiency, serving students and professionals alike, ensuring widespread physical registration access and practical service use, she explained.

Addis Ababa July 13, 2025 (ENA) -- Seven million hectares of land has been covered with seeds thus far in this rainy season, Agriculture Minister Girma Amente revealed. Agriculture Minister, Girma Amente told ENA that efforts are underway to realize the country's food sovereignty vision. Girma said that the agricultural sector has achieved remarkable results in the previous years of harvesting seasons in summer, spring and irrigation development schemes. Some 21 million hectares of land across the country will be covered with various crops in this sowing season of the nation, the minister revealed. Some hectares of the land have already been covered with cereal seeds such as maize and the likes; the remaining hectares of land are being sown with teff, wheat, barley and others in accordance with the local ecology of the country, Girma stated. He indicated that a better harvest is expected this year due to the use of modern technologies and awareness-raising activities carried out among farmers, he indicated.   Girma noted that fertilizers, select seeds, and various inputs that can increase agricultural production and productivity have been delivered to farmers on time. Summer is the biggest cultivation season for Ethiopia, as 70 percent of the total harvests of the year are cultivated during this season, he emphasized. The minister announced that 13 million hectares of land will be cultivated under cluster farming this summer, marking an increase compared to the same period last year. He emphasized the need to further strengthen cluster farming, as it enhances productivity. Girma added that 6 million hectares of land have cultivated through mechanized farming, an increase by one million hectares of land from same period last year. In modernizing agriculture and increasing production and productivity, the major breakthrough is that farmers' use of technology has been widely growing, the minister pointed out. A target is set to harvest over 659 million quintals of crops by covering 21 million hectares of land with seeds in this meher season, it was learnt.

Addis Ababa, July 13, 2025 (ENA) -- U.S. President Donald Trump's surprise announcement of sweeping 30 percent tariffs on European Union (EU) exports on Saturday has provoked a fierce backlash across the bloc, with officials and industry leaders demanding a strong and united response amid continued trade talks. The proposed tariffs, set to take effect on Aug. 1, target EU imports and were justified by Trump as a correction of a "far from reciprocal" trade relations. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned on Saturday that the tariffs would "disrupt essential transatlantic supply chains, to the detriment of businesses, consumers and patients on both sides of the Atlantic." While emphasizing the EU's continued commitment to a negotiated solution, she said the bloc "will take all necessary steps to safeguard EU interests, including the adoption of proportionate countermeasures if required." European lawmakers and national leaders voiced growing frustration, with many urging immediate retaliatory steps, Xinhua reported. Bernd Lange, chair of the European Parliament's committee on international trade, said the U.S. letter is "both impertinent and a slap in the face" after weeks of negotiations. He urged the EU to begin retaliatory measures on Monday as scheduled, stating that "the period of waiting is over." European Council President Antonio Costa said the tariffs would drive inflation, fuel uncertainty and stall growth. "The EU remains firm, united and ready to protect our interests," he said, urging progress toward a "fair agreement" with Washington. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his "strong disapproval" of the U.S. move, and said the EU must speed up preparing "credible countermeasures" using all tools, including anti-coercion, available if talks fail. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson condemned the move as a "unilateral escalation," and said the EU is prepared to respond with tough countermeasures if necessary. "Everyone loses out from an escalated trade conflict, and it will be U.S. consumers who pay the highest price," he warned. Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala criticized the U.S. tariffs for negatively impacting transatlantic trade and called for "unity and determination" to protect the EU's interests

Addis Ababa, July 12, 2025 (ENA)—The Addis Ababa City Council has approved a historic 350.13-billion Birr budget for the 2018 Ethiopian fiscal year — the largest in the city's history. The approval took place during its 4th regular meeting of the 4th year of operation. Deputy Mayor and Head of the Finance Bureau, Abdulkadir Redwan, has presented a detailed draft budget to the City Council, revealing a substantial increase of 108 billion birr, approximately 45 percent, compared to the previous Ethiopian fiscal year. The proposed budget allocates 91.8 billion Birr for recurrent expenditures, while 246.3 billion birr is earmarked for capital projects and 12 billion Birr for a reserve fund. According to the Deputy Mayor, the significant boost in the capital budget underscores the administration's dedication to people-centered development, which includes key initiatives such as housing construction, corridor development, and other high-impact urban projects. Abdulkadir also stated that the budget was meticulously crafted, taking into account the city's development vision, ongoing initiatives, and emerging needs. The budget prioritizes good governance, the continuation of development activities launched in recent years, the modernization of corridor project service delivery, and the expansion of housing development. To finance the 2018 budget, the administration plans to generate over 238 billion Birr from taxes, more than 56 billion Birr from municipal revenues, over 46 billion Birr from non-tax revenues, 1.8 billion Birr from the road fund, and 6.98 billion Birr from foreign loans and grants.

Addis Ababa, July 12, 2025 (ENA)— Ethiopian Airlines is making remarkable strides in executing its "Vision 2035" strategic roadmap, aimed at positioning the carrier among the world’s leading and most competitive aviation groups, according to CEO Mesfin Tasew. Ethiopian Airlines’ long-term strategy is anchored in providing safe, secure, market-driven, and customer-focused services across its diverse operations — spanning passenger and cargo transport, logistics, aviation training, airport management, ground handling, MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul), aerospace manufacturing, and travel and tourism. Speaking to ENA, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew affirmed that the airline is effectively implementing its strategy, with "fast and profitable growth" at its core. ​​​​He noted that the roadmap is being implemented through various key initiatives, such as expanding the airline’s network, adding new destinations, acquiring state-of-the-art aircraft, and improving operational efficiency. "As part of this strategy, we have been opening new routes over the years," he said, citing recent additions like Sharjah (UAE), Hyderabad (India), Oporto (Portugal) and Hanoi (Vietnam). Increasing flight frequencies to existing destinations is also a core component of the airline’s growth plan, Mesfin added. This commitment to expansion was further demonstrated by the launch of a new route to Vietnam on Thursday. Mesfin also said the airline's strong interest in launching flights to Australia, citing a feasibility study for this new route is currently underway. Regarding fleet expansion, the CEO emphasized that Ethiopian Airlines has placed orders for approximately 120 aircraft from both Boeing and Airbus, noting that the Boeing order includes the 787 aircraft and the newest model 777X. "We have also placed orders for Airbus A350 aircraft," he added. “We are currently receiving Boeing 737 MAX aircraft,” Mesfin stated, confirming the delivery of two aircraft last month and will continue receiving others in accordance to the schedule. Ethiopian also plans to expand its regional fleet, with evaluations underway for the acquisition of additional 100-seat aircraft, and new orders anticipated soon. Beyond fleet expansion, Ethiopian Airlines is actively pursuing strategic partnerships. Mesfin highlighted the airline’s collaborations with four foreign carriers and expressed readiness for additional joint ventures. “Several countries have approached us for support in establishing their own national airlines,” he said. “We typically begin by conducting a feasibility study before moving forward with such partnerships.”

Addis Ababa, July 11, 2025 (ENA)— Ethiopia has marked today a pivotal moment in its financial sector with the official listing and commencement of trading of Government Treasury Bills on the newly established Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX). This landmark event, celebrated by key financial institutions, signals a new era of market-based financing, enhanced transparency, and broader investor participation driven by years of strategic reforms under the Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda. During the occasion, Finance Minister Ahmed Shide underscored the profound significance of the achievement. "The success we celebrate today is the result of many years of reform work, policy coordination, and the commitment of both the government and the private sector." According to him, the listing of government securities on the ESX is a crucial step in modernizing the government's financial system and strengthening the reform efforts initiated over the past six years. Investors have been asking for this for a long time, the Minister noted, adding that the development creates credibility and expands new investment opportunities. On his part, National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) Governor Mamo Mihretu pointed out the capital market's vital role in the national economic growth. "The capital market is to grow alongside other sectors and serve as an alternative source of finance for our country's economic growth," he stated. The Governor elaborated that the ESX will contribute to price stability and serve as a key aid in the effort to enhance the effectiveness of monetary policies and modernize operations. This development provides an opportunity for the government to address budget deficits in a market-driven, non-inflationary manner, thereby facilitating national development and helping to predict and control long-term financial supply, he added. Finance State Minister Eyob Tekalign described the launch as the culmination of seven years of reform. While individual reforms may have seemed disparate, today's event demonstrates that all these reform efforts are now yielding significant results, he said. The state minister expressed the shift to market-based borrowing, even at potentially higher interest rates, was a deliberate, albeit not easy, decision to move away from monetary financing of the treasury and foster sustainable economic growth in a healthy macroeconomic environment. Eyob confirmed the government's commitment to zero monetary financing for the treasury, a policy contributing to the highest export numbers and significant reserves. On the occasion, the Ethiopian Capital Market Authority (ECMA) Director-General Hana Tehelku said today's milestone reflects the authority's unwavering commitment to building a transparent, inclusive, and robust capital market that will foster sustainable economic growth. Since its establishment in 2022, ECMA has been instrumental in laying the legal and regulatory foundations for the capital market. It has issued crucial directives on securities issuance, investor protection, market conduct, and the licensing of market participants, providing a robust framework for market operations. Formed as a public-private partnership under the Capital Market Proclamation No. 1248/2021, the ESX has developed a secure and modern trading platform capable of accommodating both debt and equity instruments. Since October 2024, it has also been facilitating inter-bank money market operations in collaboration with the NBE and commercial banks, it was learned. ESX CEO Tilahun E. Kassahun said on his part that "the first listing of government securities on ESX marks the beginning of a new chapter for a very promising debt market in Ethiopia." Today's ceremonial bell-ringing signified the official commencement of securities trading on the ESX, marking a significant stride in Ethiopia’s journey toward establishing a dynamic and inclusive capital market. This launch represents a pivotal advancement in building a resilient financial system that will support Ethiopia’s economic transformation for generations to come.

Addis Ababa, July 11, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia has marked today a historic milestone in its financial sector with the official listing and commencement of trading of Government of Ethiopia Treasury Bills on the newly established Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX). The landmark event was celebrated by key financial institutions, including the National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE), the Ethiopian Capital Market Authority (ECMA), the Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX), and the Central Securities Depository (CSD). According to a press release from the organizers, the launch signifies the beginning of a new era of market-based financing, greater transparency, and broader investor participation in Ethiopia’s emerging capital market. This achievement is the result of years of reform under the Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda, which prioritized the development of capital markets. Since 2021, the government has pursued a phased approach focusing on regulatory preparedness, institutional capacity building, and technological modernization. A cornerstone of the new financial infrastructure is the creation of the Single-Entity Multi-Asset Central Securities Depository, fully owned and operated by the NBE. The CSD enables seamless issuance, settlement, and safekeeping of securities. Integrated with the Ethiopian Automated Transfer System (EATS) and ESX’s Automated Trading System (ATS), the platform supports efficient delivery-versus-payment (DvP) settlement. “The National Bank of Ethiopia is committed to continued innovation and collaboration to ensure our capital market ecosystem supports Ethiopia’s long-term financial prosperity,” NBE Governor Mamo Mihretu said. Since its establishment in 2022, the ECMA has laid the legal and regulatory foundations for the capital market by issuing directives on securities issuance, investor protection, market conduct, and licensing of market participants. “Today is a landmark moment for Ethiopia’s financial sector as we officially begin securities trading on the Ethiopian Securities Exchange,” ECMA Director-General Hana Tehelku said. The milestone reflects the authority's commitment to building a transparent, inclusive, and robust capital market that supports sustainable economic growth, she added. Formed under the Capital Market Proclamation No. 1248/2021 as a public-private partnership, the ESX has developed a secure and modern trading platform designed to accommodate both debt and equity instruments. Since October 2024, it has also been facilitating inter-bank money market operations in collaboration with the NBE and commercial banks. “Today marks another major milestone for ESX and all stakeholders working to develop Ethiopia’s capital markets,” ESX CEO Tilahun Esmael Kassahun said. The Exchange is “proud to launch this trusted platform where capital meets opportunity, and to open the door to a promising future for Ethiopia’s debt and equity markets, " he added. The ceremonial bell-ringing marked the official start of securities trading on the ESX, a significant step in Ethiopia’s journey toward establishing a dynamic and inclusive capital market. The launch of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange represents a pivotal advancement in building a resilient financial system that supports Ethiopia’s economic transformation for generations to come.  

Addis Ababa, July 11, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia's Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda has brought transformative changes that encourage Indian foreign direct investment (FDI) into the country, India's Ambassador Anil Kumar Rai told ENA. The Indian Ambassador to Ethiopia hailed the economic reform agenda as a significant catalyst that encourages Indian companies to invest across various sectors in the country. The prospects for foreign investment, particularly from India, appear to be promising and pave the way for enhanced economic growth and collaboration between the two nations, he added. According to him, the floating of the Ethiopian currency and the relaxation of investment policies that allow foreign investors to repatriate dividends freely, and the recent legislative change which enables foreigners to purchase property in Ethiopia mark a pivotal shift in the investment landscape. “The Homegrown Economic Reform of Ethiopia has brought many changes from economic perspective,” the ambassador noted, adding that “the currency has been floated, foreign investors are given leverage to take back their repartition of dividends, the investment policy has been relaxed, the parliament passed bill which allows foreigners to come and hold a house in Ethiopia. These are some very positive changes which are taking place in the country.” Moreover, Ambassador Rai stated that the improvements in the money market and the opening of the retail sector are leading to increased interest from Indian businesses. A number of Indian companies are looking very seriously towards Ethiopia, he revealed. Furthermore, he pointed out that “sectors like mining, which has been underutilized, information technology, banking and finance, capital markets, among others, are some of the areas that Indian investors are keenly interested in.” Noting that agriculture is a cornerstone of Ethiopia's economy, the ambassador said the sector remains a focal point for Indian investors. "Agriculture is an important sector where Ethiopia has large arable land, good water resources, and very hardworking population. So, Indian companies are looking to establish a base in Ethiopia for cash crops, horticultural products, floriculture as well as medicinal and aromatic plants.” Finally, the ambassador expressed optimism about the future of Ethiopia, crediting the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for opening up the economy. "His energy, vision, and dynamism are sure to bring substantial benefits to the people of Ethiopia."

Addis Ababa, July 11, 2025 (ENA)—The Corridor Development initiative has built a positive image for Ethiopia by significantly enhancing Addis Ababa's livability for residents and making it more convenient and welcoming to tourists, Mayor Adanch Abiebie said today. Presenting the 2017 Ethiopian budget year performance report at the Addis Ababa City Council meeting, the mayor underscored the swift and well-coordinated implementation of the Second Phase of the Corridor Development program. According to her, lessons learned from the first phase were effectively applied to improve planning and execution in the second. Active community participation was also ensured by reaching consensus and a shared vision. The initiative has played a transformative role in upgrading informal settlements and delivering dignified housing, workspaces, green development, children's playgrounds, and vital social infrastructure such as schools and health centers. The second phase has delivered significant infrastructure, including 135 kilometers roads, 246 kilometers pedestrian walkways, 141 kilometers bicycle lanes, jogging tracks, and 53 bridges for both vehicles and pedestrians. It also incorporated crucial flood control measures and essential support infrastructure. Efforts to modernize urban transport included the construction of parking lots and terminals with a combined capacity for up to 35,000 vehicles. Electrical infrastructure has also been upgraded through the installation of both standard and smart poles, alongside the laying of underground power lines. Public amenities have seen substantial expansion, with the development of 431 hectares of green space, 110 public recreational plazas, and 112 modern roadside public toilets. Mayor Adanech emphasized that these improvements are part of a broader urban strategy to enhance Addis Ababa's quality of life and increase its global competitiveness. She proudly announced that Addis Ababa had been ranked first in urban transformation among 115 cities in a global Smart City competition. It also won the Africa Smart City Award. The mayor stressed that the development has been inclusive, benefiting all segments of the society and making sure that no one is left behind. The Corridor Development has reshaped the city's image, boosted competitiveness, fostered a culture of innovation and collaboration, and improved project implementation efficiency, she added. Furthermore, the initiative has created employment opportunities for hundreds of thousands of residents and significantly enhanced the city's beauty, cleanliness, and environmental sustainability, contributing positively to the country's image on the global stage.

Addis Ababa, July 11, 2025 (ENA)— Stakeholders underscore the critical need for broad societal involvement to achieve a sustainable and inclusive food system in Ethiopia. The Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), in partnership with the Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI), hosted a national forum titled "From Vision to Action: Ethiopia's Sustainable and Inclusive Food System Transition Journey." While presenting the initial discussion points, Firew Tegegn, Deputy Director General of the Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI), reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting the country’s leadership in transforming its national food systems. He said that Ethiopia, in partnership with Italy, will co-host the 2nd United Nations Food and Agriculture Conference in Addis Ababa from July 27-29, 2025. Firew noted the event would boost Ethiopia’s international standing and highlight its ongoing progress in food system transformation. Since the transition began, Ethiopia has launched several flagship national programs to accelerate change within its food system. Key initiatives include Yelemat Tirufat (Bounty of Basket), wheat development, Green Legacy Initiative, School feeding, Ethiopia Tamert (Let Ethiopia Produce), and the Seqota Declaration. Frealem Shibabaw, Director of the Ethiopian School Feeding Initiative, highlighted the government’s role in fostering a stronger generation through these programs. She noted that over 800,000 students in the Addis Ababa City Administration currently receive two meals daily under the School Feeding Program, which aligns with the Sekota Declaration. Improving agricultural productivity is a shared national responsibility, stated Bikila Workneh, Dean of the College of Natural Sciences and Engineering at Addis Ababa University. He called for increased private sector involvement, especially in food processing and value addition. Brooke Kebede, CEO of NBC Television, underscored the media’s crucial role in advancing food systems and food sovereignty. He cited media contributions in raising awareness on key national issues like the Green Footprint campaign, land tenure, and agricultural mechanization. Helen Tilahun, Executive Director of New Life Ten Challenge Development, stressed the importance of engaging youth, women, and persons with disabilities in the food system transformation to ensure it is inclusive and equitable. Preparations are currently underway for the successful hosting of the upcoming United Nations Food Systems Summit.

Addis Ababa, July 10, 2025 (ENA)—— Mayor of Addis Ababa, Adanech Abiebie, announced that close to 16,000 community-centered projects were successfully completed and put into operation during the 2017 Ethiopian fiscal year, marking a significant milestone in the city’s grassroots development efforts. The mayor attributed this remarkable achievement to the strong partnership and collaborative efforts between the government and the people, highlighting it as a testament to the power of collective action in driving community development. She made these remarks during the 4th regular session of the 4th year of the 3rd Addis Ababa City Council, where Mayor Adanech presented the city administration’s implementation report. The report emphasized a broad range of initiatives aimed at accelerating the city’s social and economic transformation. Among the key developments are the Addis International Convention Center, new shopping centers, and critical infrastructure improvements in sectors including health, education, and the arts. Housing development was also a major area of focus, with 5,176 housing units constructed using the city’s own budget, she stated, adding that 8, 786 homes for vulnerable communities were also built entirely through voluntary contributions. The city also made major advances in its economic corridor development strategy, completing 5,563 retail shops in key locations such as Kazanchis, Bole, Lideta, Lafto, and Arat Kilo. According to the mayor, these projects were made possible through strong public-private partnerships. Furthermore, 1,064 workshop sheds were completed and are now in use, further energizing local economic activity. As part of its initiative to make Addis Ababa more child-friendly, the city completed 1,155 children’s playgrounds under the First Childhood Movement, she added. Youth development also remained a priority, with 122 youth sports fields completed. In the transport sector, 153 new parking lots and transport terminals were constructed in the first phase of the fiscal year. Of the total 15,960 projects, 16 were identified as mega projects, strategic, large-scale developments with citywide impact, notably 9,000 of the projects were carried out through community participation and voluntary service, reflecting the administration’s emphasis on civic engagement. In terms of road infrastructure, the city constructed and rehabilitated 1,392 kilometers of roads, including asphalt, cobblestone, gravel roads, and pedestrian sidewalks, she said adding these improvements have enhanced urban mobility and contributed to easing traffic congestion, further improving the quality of life for residents.

Addis Ababa, July 10, 2025 (ENA) – Ethiopian Airlines, the largest network operating carrier in Africa, and one of the world’s fastest-growing airline brands, officially commenced today a new four times weekly passenger service to Hanoi, Vietnam. This new route will further enhance Ethiopian Airlines' global connectivity and provide convenient travel options for passengers traveling between Africa and Southeast Asia. Speaking during the launching ceremony, Ethiopian Group CEO Mesfin Tasew said the new flight would increase the destination of airline in Asian countries to 28. The new route, which marks a significant milestone in strengthening air connectivity between Africa and Southeast Asia, is expected to promote trade, tourism and people-to-people relations between Ethiopia and Vietnam, the CEO added. Ethiopian Airlines is also in discussion with Vietnam Airlines to explore cooperation and network expansion opportunities in the near future, it was learned. Ethiopian Airlines was founded in 1946 and has grown to become Africa’s largest and most profitable airline. It operates international passenger and cargo services to global destinations and domestic services across the country. As a member of the Star Alliance, the airline continues to expand its global reach with a fleet of more than 140 aircrafts, including modern Airbus A350s and Boeing B787s.

Addis Ababa, July 10, 2025 (ENA) – The Ethiopian Deposit Insurance Fund (EDIF) announced that it has collected a total of 13.84 billion Birr initial and annual premiums from member financial institutions over the past two years. The announcement was made at a workshop on raising awareness about the Deposit Insurance Fund. Speaking on the occasion, National Bank Deputy Governor and Ethiopian Deposit Insurance Fund Chairman, Solomon Desta, emphasized the crucial role the Fund plays in ensuring a healthy, resilient, and stable financial system for the country. He underscored that by providing adequate protection for depositors, the Fund significantly contributes to the stability of the financial system and the broader financial sector. Solomon further stated that EDIF has diligently undertaken numerous initiatives to fulfill its mandate comprehensively and effectively. He also stressed the importance of strengthening such platforms to enhance awareness and knowledge among depositors and stakeholders regarding the Fund's operations. Ethiopian Deposit Insurance Fund CEO, Dessalegn Ambaw, said the Fund has registered impressive achievements in a short period. The CEO pointed out the significant progress made in organizing the Fund and securing the necessary human resources and other inputs for its operations. As a result of these, EDIF has successfully collected 13.84 billion Birr in initial and annual premiums from member financial institutions over the past two years. EDIF provides a safety net for individuals saving or depositing money in commercial banks and microfinance institutions. In the event of a crisis affecting these institutions, the Fund ensures a system through which depositors receive compensation, safeguarding their hard-earned savings.

Addis Ababa, July 10, 2025 (ENA) --- Young African entrepreneurs said that the 3rd Africa Job Creation Forum, hosted by Ethiopia, created a conducive opportunity for them to learn from each other and promote their products. The three-day forum, held in Addis Ababa, concluded yesterday with a strong emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and sustainable economic opportunities for Africa's growing youth population. African young entrepreneurs who showcased their products at an exhibition held alongside the forum told ENA that the forum provided them with input to create connections and improve their product development. Kaikara Babra, Founder of Imaro Innovations from Uganda, said she is adding value to agricultural products and bringing them to market. She explained that her participation in the 3rd Africa Job Creation Forum in Ethiopia will enable her to improve product quality by fostering connections.   ‘‘The networking part of it, there is a way it changes our lives. One, you get money because at the end of the day we are working business because we need money. You get money, you get exposed. Even mentally, you're thinking. There is a way to grow. It doesn't mean that you have to go to school and sit in the desk and learn some things. There are things that when you move, when you network with people, there is a way your mind changes. The opportunity is the networking opportunity where I will be.’’ The city is very clean and Ethiopians are also very welcoming, she stated. Gertrude Chambati, Director of Majestic Africa Pvt Ltd from Zimbabwe, stated that she is engaged in agricultural product processing and marketing. She further added that the Africa Job Creation Forum, beyond market linkages, created an opportunity for her to learn from others and promote her products.   She said that the experience gained in creating connections with each other will help transform our lives. "First, it's a way for us to earn money, because when we engage in business, earning money is one of the main goals. It also helps to develop our mindset. Beyond learning in school, by moving from place to place and connecting with people, one can change their mindset." ‘‘we can be able to network with like-minded people, which is also an opportunity for me to learn from others. Not only that, it is also a platform for me to showcase what I am doing so that I will be able also to help others when I get feedback of what I am doing.’’   The participants, who noted this was their second time visiting Ethiopia, also stated that they observed the country's rapid development. They added that they have noticed conducive activities being undertaken in Ethiopia for youth job creation.   "I'm glad to say that this is my second time here in Ethiopia. I was here last year at the African Youth in Agribusiness Conference and I also attended the World Resilient Hunger Conference. I was glad to see that there is a fast, fast, fast progress when it comes to infrastructure in Ethiopia and as a youth I'm glad because it is promising that there is a lot of industrialization taking place here, which will benefit those who are into entrepreneurship," Chambati elaborated.

Addis Ababa, July 10, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia’s Finance Minister Ahmed Shide held discussion with the World Bank Executive Director for Africa Group 1 Constituency, Zarau Kibwe arrives for a three-day official visit in Ethiopia. Kibwe represents Ethiopia and a group of 21 other African countries in the World Bank Board. Minister Ahmed briefed the Executive Director on the successful implementation of the macroeconomic reform, strong portfolio performance, and discussed ways to deepen cooperation between Ethiopia and the World Bank, according to the Ministry of Finance. During the meeting, Minister Ahmed Shide commended the World Bank’s critical role in supporting Ethiopia’s development priorities, with a portfolio exceeding 16 billion USD across key sectors, including the recent USD 1 billion support for Development Policy Operations II. The Minister mentioned the importance of continued support from IDA21 allocations to sustain macroeconomic reform and to finance key priority areas, including infrastructure, agricultural productivity, and climate resilience initiatives to further advance the country’s development agenda. The Executive Director congratulated the Government of Ethiopia on concluding the MoU under the G20 Common Framework, praised the macroeconomic reform implementation, and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the country’s development priorities. During his visit, Kibwe will also meet with different government officials and stakeholders to discuss collaborative efforts between Ethiopia and the World Bank.

Addis Ababa, July 10, 2025 (ENA)—In the run-up to the 2nd UN Food Systems Summit Stocktake (UNFSS+4), a high-level panel discussion underscored Ethiopia’s agricultural revolution as a catalyst for advancing food and nutritional outcomes. The panel discussion, jointly organized by the Ethiopian News Agency and the Ethiopia’s Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI), provided a comprehensive platform to examine the national food and nutrition strategy from a broad and strategic perspective. Over the past six years, under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the Ethiopian government has steadfastly pursued a path of multidimensional prosperity—placing agriculture at the center of its efforts to transform the national nutrition system through a series of strategic initiatives and impactful programs. It was noted these efforts are centered on enhancing food security, advancing the production of diverse and nutritious foods, and reinforcing multi-sectoral coordination to ensure a resilient and inclusive food system in Ethiopia, it was learned. This has significantly bolstered Ethiopia’s position, as the country—widely recognized for its leadership during the 2021 UN Food Systems Summit and the UNFSS+2 in 2023. To this end, the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub has officially selected Ethiopia, in partnership with Italy—a longstanding advocate for food systems transformation—to co-host the 2nd UN Food Systems Summit Stocktake, scheduled for the end of this month. Today’s panel discussion, held under the theme “From Vision to Action: Ethiopia's Path to Sustainable, Inclusive and Resilient Food System,” brought together key stakeholders from across the country’s food and nutrition system. The event amplified Ethiopia’s ongoing strategies and initiatives, highlighting the country’s significant progress in strengthening its nutrition system and advancing toward the Sustainable Development Goals. Opening the panel discussion, Mandefro Niguse, Director-General of the Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Institute, emphasized that Ethiopia has launched comprehensive strategies and initiatives aimed at transforming its food systems at the national level. Referring to the global commitment to achieve food systems transformation by 2030, he highlighted Ethiopia’s bold initiatives in this regard He pointed out that the country has delivered exemplary results over the past six years. Stressing the importance of a food systems approach that passes through a proper food chain process, the director-general mentioned that Ethiopia has come also a long way to address these interconnected drivers in the context of the country’s unique challenges and opportunities. This success story has played a pivotal role in positioning Ethiopia to host the upcoming 2nd UN Food Systems Summit Stocktake (UNFSS+4), according to Mandefro. With the summit expected to attract thousands of participants from UN member states and serve as a critical milestone for global food systems transformation, the Director-General called for extensive media promotion and coverage from the Ethiopian capital to reflect the event’s significance. On his part, Ethiopian News Agency (ENA) CEO, Seife Deribe noted that as Ethiopia is undertaking massive agricultural initiatives in pursuit of national prosperity, the role of the media has become more critical than ever in informing, engaging, and mobilizing the public. Highlighting the leading role of ENA, Seife stated that the agency stands at the forefront of promoting agricultural development initiatives, providing comprehensive news coverage and organizing panel discussion at the national level and even beyond. The CEO also reaffirmed ENA’s commitment to delivering comprehensive news and content coverage across key development sectors, with a particular emphasis on agriculture. Currently, Ethiopia has also employed proper investment on technologies, modernization and mechanization that happened in the country’s agriculture sector over the past six years. Accordingly, the country has become self-sufficient in wheat and cereals, Dr. Firew Tegegn, Deputy Director-General of ATI said on his part. Firew, who also presented a paper during the panel discussion, underscored that Ethiopia’s major agricultural initiatives—such as the ‘Bounty of the Basket,’ summer irrigation programs, and the Green Legacy Initiative—are making a significant contribution to improving food and nutrition across the country. According to the report, since Ethiopia adopted a nutritional security approach, the country has seen a notable increase of 20 to 45 percent in the production of milk, meat, eggs, honey, and even fish over the past few years.

Addis Ababa, July 9, 2025 (ENA) -- Labor and Skills Minister, Muferihat Kamil stressed that Africa requires collaborative efforts in terms of economy and infrastructure connectivity to ensure sustainable development on the continent. The 3rd Africa Job Creation Forum created a conducive environment to strengthen ties among the youth and entrepreneurs of the continent, the minister noted. The three-day forum, held in Addis Ababa, concluded today with strong emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and sustainable economic opportunities for Africa's growing youth population. In her closing remarks, Minister Muferihat stated that Ethiopia is making concerted efforts to enhance the economic participation of its youth and entrepreneurs. She highlighted that the country has recorded encouraging progress in promoting youth entrepreneurship and expanding job opportunities.   Muferihat pointed to key achievements such as the expansion of alternative employment opportunities, the introduction of improved technologies across various sectors, and the increasing involvement of youth in economic activities. The Minister emphasized that the forum provided a vital platform for young people and entrepreneurs across Africa to exchange experiences, build networks, and collaboratively address common challenges. Participants have agreed to continue working together on shared priorities and to outline future directions for joint action, she noted. Muferihat further stressed that Africa requires collaborative efforts in terms of economy and infrastructure connectivity to ensure sustainable development in the continent. Finally, she reaffirmed Ethiopia's commitment to strengthening cooperation with fellow African nations in the areas of job creation, innovation, and entrepreneurship and beyond.

Addis Ababa, July 9, 2025 (ENA) -- The Science Museum in Addis Ababa represents the greatness of Africa, positioning Ethiopia as a leader and the 3rd Africa Job Creation Forum hosted in Addis generated valuable insights not just for Malawians, but for African youth as a whole, Malawi’s SMEDCO Chairperson Kadzamira Boniface said. Speaking to ENA, Chairperson of Malawi’s small and Medium Enterprises Development Corporation (SMEDCO) Kadzamira Boniface expressed deep admiration for Ethiopia’s capital, highlighting its pivotal role in showcasing Africa’s potential on job creation. The 3rd Africa Job Creation Forum, themed “Advancing Job Creation and Economic Resilience through Regional Integration, Digital and Financial Inclusion along Agricultural Value Chains in the AfCFTA Market convened in Addis Ababa from July 7-9, 2025. “This marks my initial visit to Ethiopia, especially here in Addis Ababa. Prior visits were merely transitory; however, this is the first occasion I’m experiencing the city firsthand,” Kadzamira remarked. The chairperson described the city as “remarkable,” noting its beauty, cleanliness, and vibrancy, which surpassed his expectations. “It doesn’t, in my opinion, resemble an African city. It’s beautiful, clean, and I am thoroughly impressed, as I never anticipated witnessing what I have. It’s absolutely astonishing.” He was equally moved by the warmth and hospitality of the Ethiopian people. “The level of hospitality has been exceptional. It feels like home, almost like a second home.” He expressed his admiration to the Addis Ababa Science Museum. “We are thoroughly amazed. It transcended expectations. It’s difficult to articulate. This experience has been so remarkable for me, and I believe for everyone who toured that science museum.” He added that his visit to Addis Ababa’s Science Museum left a lasting memory on him, reinforcing his appreciation for Ethiopia’s blend of historical significance and modern innovation. “You have showcased us the potential of Africa, positioning yourself as a leader in this regard. The Science Museum was phenomenal. It represents the greatness of Africa,” he reflected. Meanwhile, Malawi’s SMEDCO chairperson also reflected that the 3rd Africa Job Creation Forum resonated strongly with his mission in Malawi. He described the forum as “a unique opportunity to acquire valuable insights not just for Malawians, but for African youth as a whole.” The event was instrumental to foster learning and collaboration, he said. “The Forum has been an enlightening experience, a real learning opportunity. I am confident that we will return to our nations reinvigorated. We are set to share the knowledge we have gained here with our communities,” SMEDCO’s chairperson explained. He further elaborated that major takeaways from the forum included the importance of regional integration, technology transfer, and empowering women and youth in entrepreneurship. The insights will directly enhance SMEDCO’s efforts to nurture small and medium enterprises in Malawi, with a renewed focus on local talent and inclusive growth. Finally, Kadzamira expressed optimism for Africa’s future, underscoring Ethiopia’s emergence as a center of innovation and a model for deliberate development, self-sufficiency, and regional partnership. The knowledge gained in Addis Ababa is expected to shape Malawi’s economic strategy, with a focus on empowerment and technological advancement for a more prosperous future, he said.

Addis Ababa, July 9, 2025 (ENA) -- Ethiopia earned 2.6 billion USD from coffee exports in the just-concluded fiscal year, the Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority (ECTA) announced. Director General of the Authority, Adugna Debela, stated that the Authority had initially planned to export 326,000 tons of coffee and generate 2 billion USD in revenue. However, over 470,000 tons were exported, resulting in earnings of 2.65 billion USD. Adugna highlighted that this achievement makes Ethiopia the leading coffee exporter in Africa and the third-largest coffee producer and exporter globally. He recalled that in the 2016 Ethiopian fiscal year, the country earned 1.4 billion USD from coffee exports. The 2017 Ethiopian fiscal year’s revenue thus represents an increase of 1.2 billion USD.   The Director General attributed this success to various reform measures implemented to boost income from the coffee sector. These include policy changes that allow coffee farmers to export directly, thereby increasing their profits. He also noted the training provided to farmers, the replacement of old coffee trees with new, high-yield varieties, and the introduction of improved coffee species, all of which contributed to enhanced productivity. Quality control efforts have also improved, enabling the export of higher-quality coffee products to the international market, which has further benefited both farmers and suppliers. Adugna added that the Green Legacy Initiative has played a key role in boosting production. Over 8.5 billion coffee seedlings have been planted in the past five years, and plans are underway to plant over 2 billion more during the current rainy season.

Addis Ababa, July 9, 2025 (ENA) -- Ethiopia officially launched the Steering Committee for the National Coffee Platform bringing together a broad spectrum of stakeholders to support one of the country's most vital economic and cultural sectors in Addis Ababa. Speaking at the launch, Semereta Sewasew, State Minister of Finance and Chairperson of the Steering Committee, noted ongoing challenges, including climate change, market vulnerability, and regulatory hurdles. She commended producers, exporters, and the Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority (ECTA) for their role in achieving record-breaking export figures. Addressing the gathering, Adugna Debela, Director General of ECTA, and Samuel Doe, UNDP Representative in Ethiopia, highlighted the importance of unity and shared purpose in advancing Ethiopia’s coffee sector. The Steering Committee is tasked with guiding the National Coffee Platform—first introduced in November last year—toward a shared vision for the future of the sector. The platform is designed to foster leadership, accountability, and cooperation among farmers, cooperatives, exporters, civil society, government, and private sector actors. The coffee sector supports over 5 million smallholder farmers—many of them women—and directly or indirectly employs roughly a quarter of the population, according to Ministry of Finance. Coffee remains Ethiopia’s leading export, generating over 2.5 billion USD this year-one of the highest contributions in the country's history.