Addis Ababa, October 3, 2026 (ENA)— The Damerjog-Dewele Petroleum Products Pipeline Project will accelerate Ethiopia’s economic growth, strengthen fuel security and deepen economic ties between Ethiopia and Djibouti, scholars said. The 120-kilometer petroleum products pipeline, which will connect Damerjog in Djibouti with Dewele in Ethiopia, is among the major infrastructure projects being undertaken to support Ethiopia’s economic transformation and improve the efficiency of fuel supply. The construction of the project was recently launched by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Djiboutian President Ismail Omar Guelleh and Dangote Group President Aliko Dangote. The project is being implemented through a partnership between Ethiopian Investment Holdings and the Dangote Group. During the launching ceremony, it was stated that the pipeline will have the capacity to store and transport more than one million cubic meters of refined petroleum products. Professor Tassew Woldehanna, President of the Ethiopian Economics Association and a lecturer in the Department of Economics at Addis Ababa University, told ENA that the newly launched Ethiopia-Djibouti petroleum pipeline demonstrates Ethiopia’s growing commitment to strategic investment and economic infrastructure.   He said Ethiopia’s longstanding reliance on road transport to import petroleum products from Djibouti has posed challenges to maintaining a reliable and efficient national fuel supply. The Damerjog-Dewele pipeline is therefore expected to help address these challenges by providing a dedicated infrastructure system for transporting petroleum products into Ethiopia, he said. Professor Tassew also emphasized that the significance of an investment should be assessed not only by its contribution to economic growth but also by the employment and business opportunities it creates. In this regard, he said, the pipeline project could generate economic opportunities while supporting activities across various sectors. Economist Birhanu Alemu, for his part, said Ethiopia’s expanding infrastructure development and economic activities require the country to strengthen its petroleum storage and distribution capacity.   Given the growing scale of commercial and productive activities, increasing national fuel reserves is essential to ensuring the continuity of economic operations, he said. From this perspective, the Damerjog-Dewele pipeline will play an important role in ensuring a more reliable and stable fuel supply and reducing disruptions associated with conventional fuel transportation, Birhanu noted. He further explained that a dependable petroleum supply is critical to manufacturing industries, mechanized agriculture and the transport sector, all of which are essential to increasing productivity and supporting economic growth. The scholars said major infrastructure projects being initiated and implemented by Ethiopia could contribute not only to the country’s economic transformation but also to broader regional development. They cited the Damerjog-Dewele pipeline as an example of how infrastructure cooperation between neighboring countries can create shared economic benefits. The project is also expected to strengthen economic interdependence between Ethiopia and Djibouti by improving the movement of strategic commodities and expanding opportunities for investment and trade. According to the scholars, such joint infrastructure initiatives can further consolidate the longstanding relations between the two countries while contributing to regional economic integration. Overall, they said the Damerjog-Dewele Petroleum Products Pipeline reflects Ethiopia’s broader development drive under its national vision of transforming infrastructure, strengthening productive capacity and creating the foundations for sustained economic growth.

Addis Ababa, October 3, 2026 (ENA)—Minister of Water and Energy Habtamu Itefa underscored that the historical legacy of Egypt’s Aswan High Dam and its construction caused major social disruption while proceeding without Ethiopia’s consent. In a social media post early today, Minister Habtamu described the Aswan High Dam as one of Africa’s most consequential mega-dam projects, saying its construction displaced more than 100,000 Nubians and profoundly affected their communities, livelihoods and ancestral lands.   He argued that the history of the Aswan project should be considered in the current debate over Abay (Nile) development and Ethiopia’s right to utilize its water resources. “Ethiopia has a sovereign right to develop and utilize its Nile water resources based on the principle of equitable and reasonable utilization,” Habtamu said, rejecting calls for Ethiopia to obtain prior consent from downstream countries for its water-development projects. The Minister said Ethiopia had repeatedly called for consultation over Nile-water projects, while revealing that historical records from the 1950s documented Ethiopian objections to the lack of broader consultation surrounding the Aswan project and earlier Nile-water arrangements. Against this historical backdrop, Habtamu said the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is governed by a more recent regional framework — the 2015 Declaration of Principles (DoP) signed by Ethiopia, Sudan and Egypt. “Before criticizing Ethiopia, Egypt should explain why it built the Aswan High Dam without Ethiopian consent,” Habtamu said, linking the historical experience of the Aswan project to the contemporary debate over the GERD.   He further stated that Egypt’s historical record weakens its criticism of Ethiopia solely on the grounds of downstream consultation, pointing to the displacement of Nubian communities associated with the Aswan project. “Egypt’s historical record gives it NO moral basis for criticizing Ethiopia solely on the grounds of downstream consultation, because in 1950’s Ethiopia itself formally objected to the lack of consultation over the Aswan High Dam and earlier Nile-water arrangements, while the Aswan project caused large-scale displacement of Nubian communities,” he elaborated.   The GERD, by contrast, was addressed through the 2015 Declaration of Principles signed by Egypt, Ethiopia, and Sudan, Minister Habtamu said.

Addis Ababa, October 2, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia has been building a more dynamic financial system and economy through a series of macroeconomic reforms aimed at addressing structural distortions, expanding financial access and strengthening institutions, National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) Governor Eyob Tekalign said. Speaking during a fireside conversation at the conclusion of the three-day Ethiopia Finance Forum 2026 in Addis Ababa, Eyob described the reform process as a multi chapter undertaking rather than a series of isolated policy announcements. He said the reforms are being implemented through disciplined execution and a focus on delivering tangible results. The governor also clarified that the NBE has taken measures to address distortions in the foreign exchange market, noting that previous approaches had created constraints to building a competitive and dynamic economy. The introduction of a more flexible foreign exchange regime and related measures has laid the foundation for a more functional and market oriented foreign exchange system, he said. Eyob also highlighted the national bank’s efforts to contain inflation. He said the NBE’s policy committee meets quarterly to assess inflation trends and determine appropriate measures to bring price pressures under control. He emphasized that financial sector reform must also expand access to finance for different segments of society. According to the governor, reforms are extending financial services to smallholder farmers through microfinance institutions while efforts to promote financial inclusion are also supporting rural women. Eyob further highlighted housing finance and mortgage policy, describing the cost of housing as a major burden for many households. He said addressing the challenge requires stronger institutions and greater openness to competition across the financial sector, including banking and insurance. On digitalization, the governor stressed that rapid technology adoption must be accompanied by trusted and reliable infrastructure. Trust is essential to ensure digital systems work effectively and securely, he said. Eyob said the reforms are also strengthening financial capacity across insurance, microfinance and other parts of the financial system. He emphasized the importance of financial literacy in enabling citizens to understand financial services and make effective use of expanded access to finance. The governor stressed that the reform process should not be viewed as a collection of slogans or public statements, but as a process that requires sustained implementation, monitoring and accountability. He further urged investors, development partners and Ethiopians across different sectors to work together toward national development objectives, cautioning that waiting for complete certainty could result in missed opportunities. Eyob also called for collective efforts to build an economy and financial system capable of creating better opportunities for future generations, saying the country should learn from the shortcomings of previous generations and work toward leaving a stronger foundation for those to come.

  Addis Ababa, October 2, 2026 (ENA)—Egypt has been attempting to hinder Ethiopia's integrationist role in the region and to obstruct its development, fearing that these might pull the rug out from under its feet, Abdulshakur Abdulsamad, a Senior Researcher at the Center for Strategic Studies and Regional Integration Initiative said. Egypt mistakenly believes that Ethiopia's continuous accelerated pace of development and growth is ominous for its growth, he added. This fear is flawed, the senior researcher stressed. Instead "looking at the matter through the lens of integrated development, cooperation, and partnership saves a great deal of effort and time as it helps harness joint action to achieve mutual benefits and interests for all." According to Abdulshakur, Ethiopia's lack of access to the sea has adversely affected the entire integrated system, which could have fostered and supported regional security and stability in the area. "Before 1993, when Ethiopian naval forces were present in this region, there were no manifestations of piracy, nor was there any maritime tension. Any observer of security and military affairs recognizes the real role played by the Ethiopian Navy in maintaining security and stability in the region," he elaborated. For the senior researcher, Ethiopia's presence at the sea serves as a safety valve and is a genuine guarantee for security and stability, in partnership with the countries of the region. "This direction is reaffirmed by the recent UN-sponsored meeting in Nairobi, which brought together Ethiopia, Somalia, Djibouti, and Yemen to discuss ways to develop this aspect as one of the messages promoting the path," he stated. Abdulshakur argued that the evidence from the past three decades in the Gulf of Aden, Bab al-Mandab, and the Red Sea shows that the escalation of piracy operations did not begin until after Ethiopia became a landlocked nation. "Today, regional and international requirements dictate that Ethiopia be a primary partner in maintaining maritime security and stability," he said. The senior researcher further noted that for Ethiopia a sea outlet is tantamount to the lung through which it breathes. ''It is an indispensable economic, security, and developmental necessity. Added to this is the geopolitical weight represented by Ethiopia as the second most populous nation in Africa, and its economy being one of the strongest developing economies on the continent,"Abdulshakur underscored. He concluded that Ethiopia's significant development growth achieved over the past decades, along with its regional importance and in alignment and consistent with its vision based on shared growth and regional integration with neighboring countries, warrants a sea outlet.

Addis Ababa, October 2, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s sweeping financial-sector reforms are attracting interest from foreign banks, signaling growing confidence in the country’s financial market, Global Alliance for Banking on Values Executive Director Martin Rohner said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, the Executive Director stated that the reforms being undertaken by the National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) are creating a more attractive environment for foreign banks and direct investment. Rohner noted that recent changes in capital market, monetary policy and foreign-exchange regulations constitute important building blocks of a comprehensive financial-sector reform package. “These are all building blocks of a much more comprehensive financial sector reform package which were necessary to make Ethiopia attractive for foreign direct investors and foreign banks to come into the market.” According to Rohner, initial interests from foreign banks in entering the Ethiopian financial market is already emerging. “It’s encouraging to see that there are initial banks interested in moving into the Ethiopian financial market,” he added. The Executive also commended the NBE for engaging with the private sector and listening to the concerns and needs of financial institutions. “I am very impressed by not just the momentum that is happening with the financial sector reform, but also the willingness of the National Bank of Ethiopia to engage with the private sector, listen to the private sector, and to adapt their regulation to the needs of the private sector,” Rohner said. He further said domestic banks are also encouraged by the reforms, noting that changes in the financial sector are making business conditions easier and contributing to increased business activity. Rohner further highlighted Ethiopia’s large and untapped financial market, particularly in digital financial inclusion. The entry of foreign financial institutions could accelerate digital financial inclusion while encouraging domestic banks to become more dynamic and expand access to financial services, he said. “With the advent of foreign players in the Ethiopian financial market, you will see acceleration in that respect.” He explained that greater competition and improved access to finance could help unlock Ethiopia’s broader economic potential. “Ethiopia is a huge country. It has tremendous economic potential, which still is untapped,” Rohner said, adding that he “thinks the future is bright. The vision is clear. The policy framework is pointing in the right direction”.

By Staff writer What the 2nd Ethiopian Finance Forum 2026 Signals for Ethiopia’s Reform Path Ethiopia is advancing its economic transformation through broad structural reforms aimed at strengthening financial stability, expanding investment, boosting domestic production, and building stronger institutions. These reforms are designed to create a more resilient and self-reliant economy capable of generating employment, attracting investment, and supporting sustainable development. The opening of the Second Ethiopian Finance Forum 2026 on Tuesday at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum highlighted this strategic direction, bringing together key priorities in economic reform, financial sector development, and private sector participation. The forum also focused on ways to transform the country’s human, natural, and institutional resources into powerful drivers of growth and prosperity. Running through October 1, the forum provides a platform to highlight progress in macroeconomic management, expand financing for private enterprises, strengthen agricultural production, and modernize financial services. The key contributors to this progress include ongoing economic reforms, an expanded role for the private sector, enhanced agricultural financing, a declining inflation rate and digitalizing finance. National Economic Reform Ethiopia’s macroeconomic reform program represents a major step toward building an economy aligned with national development priorities while strengthening the state’s capacity to mobilize resources, expand employment and improve citizens’ living standards. Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh said Ethiopia is implementing economic and financial reforms aimed at moving the country from stabilization toward economic transformation. The measures include reforms to the foreign exchange market, monetary policy and financial sector regulation, as well as opening sectors to greater competition and investment. As part of efforts to strengthen national institutions, Ethiopia established Ethiopian Investment Holdings to improve the performance of strategic national assets and institutions, including Ethiopian Airlines, the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia and Ethio Telecom. These institutions have a significant role in expanding services, supporting economic growth and strengthening Ethiopia’s participation in regional and international markets. Ethiopia has also strengthened cooperation with development partners while implementing an economic reform program designed around its national priorities. The program has enabled the country to secure support from the International Monetary Fund to address balance of payments pressures, ease economic imbalances and sustain the reform process. Expanding Private Sector Expanding the role of the private sector has emerged as a major component of Ethiopia’s financial sector reforms, particularly through changes in lending policies that have enabled more resources to reach productive enterprises. The Commercial Bank of Ethiopia increased its annual lending to the private sector from about 30 billion Birr to nearly 300 billion Birr. The number of small and medium sized enterprises benefiting from financing also increased from around 5,000 to 35,000, strengthening their capacity to expand operations, invest and create employment. The bank has also provided financing for home and vehicle purchases by reducing the required down payment to 10 percent and allowing repayment periods of up to 20 years at an interest rate of 14 percent. To support innovation and entrepreneurship, the bank allocated five billion Birr for loans of up to 10 million Birr to emerging entrepreneurs without requiring collateral or an initial contribution. The initiative is intended to create additional opportunities for new businesses and emerging enterprises. These measures reflect efforts to create a financial system that responds more effectively to the needs of the productive economy and enables individuals and institutions to turn ideas into viable economic activities. Agricultural Financing Expanding agricultural financing is another important element of Ethiopia’s economic transformation, given the sector’s contribution to food security, employment, production and trade. The volume of loans extended to agriculture and related sectors increased from 28 billion birr last year to 189 billion Birr. The government is also investing in irrigation development, agricultural mechanization, improved land use and productivity enhancement. Minister of Planning and Development Fitsum Assefa said reform measures have contributed to easing inflationary pressures. She noted that average annual inflation declined from more than 26 percent before the reforms to slightly above 16 percent one year after their implementation, attributing the improvement to coordinated monetary and fiscal measures. Wheat production has emerged as one example of the transformation Ethiopia is seeking to consolidate. According to data presented at the forum, increased domestic wheat production has enabled the country to reduce its dependence on imports and move toward self-sufficiency. The Green Legacy initiative has also contributed to efforts to strengthen agricultural resources and food production while linking environmental protection with long term economic development. Declining of Inflation The decline in average annual headline inflation from about 26 percent in 2024 to nearly 16 percent during the 12 months following the reform reflects progress in efforts to address economic pressures and create a more stable environment for businesses and investors. The reforms included gradual adjustments to the ceiling on bank credit growth, which rose from 14 percent to 18 percent and then 24 percent before the ceiling was abolished. The government also shifted toward instruments such as securities sales to finance budget deficits rather than relying on direct borrowing from the National Bank of Ethiopia. Tax policy reforms have further strengthened the government’s capacity to mobilize and manage domestic revenue, supporting public expenditure and improving coordination between fiscal and monetary policies. Minister of Finance Ahmed Shide said the comprehensive macroeconomic reform has produced tangible results in easing the national debt burden and reducing inflation. He added that completing debt restructuring agreements would help ease pressure on public finances and reduce foreign exchange constraints. At the same time, direct and indirect fuel subsidies have exceeded 600 billion Birr over the past eight years. The government allocated 130 billion Birr for petroleum products during the current fiscal year, in addition to 100 billion birr to support fertilizer supplies, with the stated objective of protecting consumers and maintaining the productive capacity of farmers and businesses. Digitalizing Finance The digital transformation of banking services is another important component of Ethiopia’s financial sector modernization, expanding access to financial services, facilitating transactions and creating new financing opportunities. Services such as CBE Birr and CBE Fast Loan have expanded digital financial services to millions of customers, contributing to financial inclusion and facilitating access to banking services, particularly for small and medium sized enterprises. The forum also witnessed the official launch of the Ethiopian Finance Academy, formerly known as the Ethiopian Financial Studies Institute, following the expansion of its capabilities and the adoption of a new organizational structure. The academy is expected to prepare professionals capable of responding to developments in banking, capital markets and digital finance through training programs, professional certifications and specialized research on financial policy. It will also provide capacity building programs for leaders of financial institutions. The launch was attended by National Bank of Ethiopia Governor Eyob Tekalign, senior bank officials, heads of banking and insurance institutions and other invited guests. Governor Eyob said Ethiopia is working to build a strong and dynamic financial sector capable of supporting the country’s development ambitions and sustainable economic growth. He said strengthening the banking sector includes increasing capital, encouraging mergers and acquisitions, expanding financing and facilitating the participation of foreign banks. Conclusion The discussions at the Second Ethiopian Finance Forum demonstrate an integrated approach to economic transformation that combines macroeconomic stability, institutional development, private investment, increased production and financial modernization. The expansion of private sector lending, the growing number of small and medium sized enterprises accessing finance, increased agricultural financing and the expansion of digital financial services are contributing to a broader economic base and greater participation in national development. The decline in inflation, the development of alternative instruments for budget financing, improved domestic revenue mobilization and progress in debt restructuring are also important components of efforts to create a more stable economic environment. As Ethiopia continues implementing its reform program, greater integration of finance, production, technology and human capital development will be important to ensure that macroeconomic improvements translate into increased employment, higher productivity and improved living standards. The Second Ethiopian Finance Forum therefore provides a platform for assessing the progress of the country’s economic reforms while highlighting the financial sector’s role in mobilizing resources, supporting productive investment and strengthening the foundations for long term economic development.

Addis Ababa, October 1, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia and the World Bank have agreed to deepen their strategic partnership and accelerate cooperation aimed at driving private sector-led growth, creating jobs and strengthening the country’s economic resilience. Minister of Finance Ahmed Shide and National Bank of Ethiopia Governor Eyob Tekalign held discussions today with World Bank Managing Director of Operations Anna Bjerde and Regional Vice President for Eastern and Southern Africa Ndiamé Diop. In its press release sent to ENA, the Ministry of Finance said the minister highlighted the government’s ongoing economic reform agenda, including efforts to boost domestic revenue mobilization, improve the business environment and expand opportunities for private sector development. Ahmed also expressed appreciation for the World Bank’s continued support to Ethiopia, including through budget support operations. Bjerde welcomed the progress made under Ethiopia’s reform program, noting the government’s commitment to private sector-led growth and job creation.   She reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment to further strengthening its partnership with Ethiopia and supporting the country’s development priorities, particularly its transition toward a stronger private sector-led economy under the new Country Partnership Framework. The two sides agreed to expand cooperation in key areas, including Mission 300, the AgriConnect Compact, the E-Mobility Program and the Water Forward Initiative. They also discussed expanding Ethiopia’s access to additional financing windows to strengthen the country’s resilience to climate-related and external shocks.   Both sides emphasized the need to improve implementation efficiency and accelerate development outcomes through the Development Ready Initiative, with a focus on delivering timely and tangible benefits to the Ethiopian people. The discussions reaffirmed Ethiopia and the World Bank’s shared commitment to advancing the country’s economic transformation, strengthening resilience and fostering sustainable and inclusive private sector-led growth.

Addis Ababa, October 1, 2026 (ENA)—The rapid expansion of digital financial services, coupled with comprehensive macroeconomic reforms, is creating a major turning point for the growth and transformation of Ethiopia’s banking sector, according to the National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE). Speaking on the second day of the Ethiopia Finance Forum 2026, Gemechis Dugasa, Director of Regulation, Licensing and Approval at the NBE, said simultaneous structural changes in the economy and the emergence of capital markets are reshaping Ethiopia’s financial landscape.   Dugasa made the remarks while opening a session titled “Partnering for Growth: An Enabling Policy and Regulatory Environment for Banking Sector Investment.” He said the rapid expansion of mobile banking, digital payments, mobile money and agent based financial services is creating new business models while raising the standard of financial services available to customers across the country. “Digital finance is changing the way financial services are delivered in Ethiopia,” Dugasa said, noting the continued growth of mobile banking, mobile money, digital payments and agent-based services. Ethiopia recorded digital financial transactions worth 33 trillion birr during the 2025/26 fiscal year, reflecting the rapid expansion of digital financial services, particularly mobile money and digital banking. Dugasa, however, stressed that the rapid digitalization of the financial sector must be accompanied by strong cybersecurity, effective data protection, reliable digital infrastructure and strengthened operational governance. He said Ethiopia has also been modernizing its banking regulatory framework while establishing a legal basis for foreign participation in the financial sector. Developments in capital markets and digital financial infrastructure are further expanding opportunities for investment and innovation, he added. According to Dugasa, foreign investors entering Ethiopia’s financial sector are expected to bring more than capital.   They are expected to contribute long term investment commitments, advanced technologies, knowledge transfer, human capital development, sound governance practices and international financial connectivity. He also emphasized the need to adapt international financial practices to Ethiopia’s economic circumstances rather than adopting them without consideration of local realities. Such an approach, he said, would help support sustainable and responsible growth while strengthening the resilience and capacity of the national financial system. Ethiopia is undertaking broad economic reforms aimed at strengthening macroeconomic stability, expanding financial inclusion, mobilizing investment and accelerating digital transformation. The financial sector is at the center of these efforts, playing a critical role in mobilizing savings, financing investment, supporting innovation and expanding access to financial services. The NBE is hosting the Ethiopia Finance Forum 2026, which brings together policymakers, financial institutions, development partners, private sector representatives and financial sector experts to examine the modernization and structural transformation of Ethiopia’s financial system. The forum provides a platform for stakeholders to discuss policy and regulatory reforms, investment opportunities and the future direction of the financial sector while promoting collaboration among domestic and international actors. The discussions are also expected to help build greater alignment on the future of Ethiopia’s financial system and identify opportunities for investment and partnership as the country advances its broader economic transformation agenda.

Addis Ababa, October 1, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia has established a national committee to assess economic losses and foregone development opportunities linked to water projects that have been “blocked or obstructed by Egyptians” over the Nile River, Minister of Water and Energy Habtamu Itefa announced. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Habtamu said the committee has so far identified more than 22 development projects, including the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), that Ethiopia were obstructed by Egypt. “We have established a national committee. And as a {committee}, we counted more than 22 projects that have been blocked or obstructed by Egyptians, including the GERD project,” the Minister disclosed. Ethiopia’s longstanding concerns over Nile Basin development inequalities are gaining growing scholarly support, strengthening its case for redress over historical economic losses and foregone development opportunities. In that regard, Minister Habtamu said the newly established committee is compiling evidence on the projects and examining the basis for Ethiopia’s compensation claims. The assessment involves experts, former ministers, advisers and legal professionals who are examining the scale of the losses and possible approaches for addressing them, he pointed out. “We are already collecting the evidence. We have documented as many of the projects as possible that they (Egyptians) opposed, including the GERD, over which they even attempted to threaten Ethiopia, to say as if they have a giant military power and then come to exercise something, which is really a crime in front of the international community,” Habtamu stated. Habtamu further elaborated that the review will consider not only projects that were prevented from being implemented, but also Ethiopia’s environmental conservation efforts and the benefits its water-management infrastructure provides downstream. He cited the Green Legacy Initiative, under which more than 50 billion trees have reportedly been planted, noting that substantial activities have taken place in major river basins, including the Baro, Abay and Tekeze. Habtamu said this conservation efforts should be considered in assessing Ethiopia’s contribution to protecting water resources and addressing climate-related impacts across the Nile Basin. He also highlighted the GERD’s potential role in regulating river flows, saying its operation could help reduce downstream flooding and maintain water availability during periods of lower rainfall. The Minister pointed to current El Niño-related rainfall conditions as an example of the importance of coordinated water management, saying flow regulation could provide benefits to downstream countries, including Sudan and Egypt. Outlining possible scenarios for securing compensation, the Minister said Ethiopia’s approach would have clear milestones, with negotiation and mutual understanding as the preferred option, while other scenarios would involve Ethiopia taking further action.

Addis Ababa, September 30, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia is harnessing digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to unlock its tourism potential, enhance visitor experiences, and create economic opportunities for local communities and businesses, Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa said. Speaking at the launch of the 6th Oromia Tourism Week in Addis Ababa on Tuesday, the Minister noted that the government is advancing the digital transformation of the tourism sector through policy measures, strategic partnerships, and technology-driven initiatives. Ethiopia's new tourism policy, which came into effect this year, identifies key directions for transforming the sector through digital technology and AI. Selamawit stated that AI is increasingly reshaping how tourism destinations are marketed, trips are planned, businesses operate, heritage sites are interpreted, and visitors experience destinations. Emphasizing the importance of inclusive digital transformation, the Minister said the adoption of AI and digital technologies should remain open, inclusive, and human-centered, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are not concentrated in a limited number of destinations and digital platforms. She highlighted the role of digital platforms in connecting visitors with tourism businesses, tour operators, hotels, and other stakeholders, The establishment of a Smart Tourism Information Center at the Ministry of Tourism's headquarters is another initiative demonstrating the government's commitment to digitalizing the sector. The Minister also said the country's upcoming AI University would contribute to building artificial intelligence capabilities in Ethiopia and across Africa, with potential benefits for the tourism industry. Highlighting Ethiopia's diverse tourism resources, she said the country is endowed with abundant natural and cultural heritage, including its status as the cradle of humanity, the birthplace of coffee, and the source of the Blue Nile. Selamawit described Oromia as an important part of Ethiopia's tourism landscape, citing its natural attractions, diverse wildlife, cultural heritage, and potential to create opportunities for local communities and businesses. Tourism development requires strong collaboration among federal and regional governments, the private sector, local communities, development partners, and international markets, the Minister underscored. For her part, Oromia Tourism Commissioner Lelise Duga said the Week is growing into an annual platform connecting domestic and international tourism stakeholders. Representatives from more than 20 countries are participating in this year's Tourism Week and the event is creating opportunities for tourism and investment by bringing together tourism professionals, tour operators, partners, and private-sector actors. The three-day event features various programs, including panel discussions focusing on digital tourism, artificial intelligence, and inclusive tourism.

Addis Ababa, September 30, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopian Airlines has signed a landmark agreement with Boeing for 10 Boeing 777 freighters, significantly expanding the airline’s global cargo fleet and operations. The agreement was formally signed by Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew and Boeing Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing Brad McMullen. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mesfin highlighted that the agreement includes eight firm orders for the Boeing 777-8 Freighter, a next-generation cargo aircraft, with deliveries scheduled between 2033 and 2035. Additionally, the agreement covers two current-generation Boeing 777 Freighters, with deliveries slated for 2027 and 2028, bringing the total firm aircraft order to 10. “In addition to that, we will be acquiring four more Boeing 777 freighter airplanes converted from passenger to cargo,” Mesfin said, adding that the move is aimed at further enhancing Ethiopian Airlines’ cargo operations. The CEO further noted that cargo operations currently contribute about 23 percent of the airline’s total revenue, making the business an important component of Ethiopian Airlines’ overall operations. “As part of our Vision 2040 strategy, we are set to expand our cargo operation by adding more cargo airplanes,” he said. He also expressed the long-standing partnership between Ethiopian Airlines and Boeing, noting that nearly 80 percent of the airline’s jet aircraft were manufactured by Boeing. “Out of the 102 firm orders, 84 are from Boeing to be delivered in the coming seven years.” According to him, the partnership between the two companies extends beyond aircraft purchases and operations to areas including industrial development, capacity building, training, leadership development and aerospace manufacturing. Ethiopian Airlines manufactures aircraft parts and supplies them to Boeing for the production of new aircraft, he noted. “Our cooperation between the two companies is wide, and it is based on value, trust and collaboration.” Ethiopian Airlines is seeking to expand rapidly in both passenger and cargo operations, making the acquisition of new aircraft essential to the airline’s growth strategy, he underscored. For his part, Boeing Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing Brad McMullen said the partnership between Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines spans the nearly 80-year history of the airline. Recalling that Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines have marked several milestones together, he said that, "Today, we recognize Ethiopian Airlines as the first African carrier to order another member of the 777X family, the 777-8 Freighter." McMullen further noted that the purchase of eight 777-8 Freighters and two 777 Freighters demonstrates the continuation of their strong partnership as Ethiopian Airlines expands its fleet and network in Africa and beyond. According to McMullen, the order combines the proven performance of the Boeing 777 Freighter with the advanced capabilities of the 777-8 Freighter, describing it as the newest, largest, and most efficient twin-engine freighter in its class. He expressed confidence that the aircraft would help Ethiopian Airlines meet the growing demand for air cargo services. The Boeing 777 Freighter is currently the world’s longest-range twin-engine freighter and enables carriers to reduce fuel and operating costs while maintaining high daily aircraft utilization, McMullen added. The Ethiopian Airlines 777 Freighter was the most-utilized aircraft across the global commercial fleet last year, which is a testament to the strength of the airline’s cargo business and the partnership between the two companies. McMullen also pointed out that the 777-8 Freighter retains key features of the 777 Freighter that support efficient operations, high utilization, and reliability, while incorporating advanced technologies as a member of Boeing’s 777X family, including an all-new carbon-fiber composite wing. He added that Boeing’s partnership with Ethiopian Airlines extends beyond aircraft sales to the broader development of Ethiopia’s aviation ecosystem. The companies are collaborating in areas including industrial development, aviation supply-chain opportunities, aviation education and training through a Center of Excellence, the expansion of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) capabilities, and the development of the next generation of aviation leaders. “We look forward to shaping the future together,” McMullen underscored.

Addis Ababa, September 30, 2026 (ENA) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Kenya’s Lamu refinery will provide Ethiopia with an additional regional source of refined petroleum, broadening its supply options while creating new opportunities for trade and investment. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony attended by African Heads of State and Government, industrialist Alhaji Aliko Dangote, ministers, ambassadors and other dignitaries, Prime Minister Abiy described the project as a significant step toward strengthening energy security and advancing regional economic integration in East Africa. He noted that much of the fuel powering African economies has for years been refined outside the continent, leaving countries exposed to disruptions and volatility in global markets. As African cities expand and industries grow, the Premier said rising demand for fuel makes it increasingly important to develop refining capacity closer to regional markets and build more resilient supply systems. “The Lamu refinery offers a way to change that balance,” he said, noting that the project would bring refining capacity closer to African consumers and add significant capacity to the region. “For Ethiopia, an additional regional source will broaden our supply options and create new opportunities for trade and investment,” PM Abiy said. He added that the refinery’s significance would extend beyond fuel production, as related industries could emerge around the facility. Its location within the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) Corridor, he said, could further strengthen connections between production centers and regional markets. Prime Minister Abiy commended Kenyan President William Ruto for advancing an infrastructure project with significance beyond Kenya, saying such investments can help deepen economic integration among neighboring countries. He also praised Alhaji Aliko Dangote for bringing his experience in developing large-scale African industrial enterprises to the project, citing his investments in cement, fertilizer and refining as examples of the industrial capacity needed to drive Africa’s economic transformation. Addressing business leaders, the PM said East Africa should be seen not only as a market but also as a place to produce, build and create value. He stressed that the lasting impact of a project of this scale should be measured by the opportunities it creates—from technological knowledge and new enterprises to skilled employment and pathways for the next generation. “Young Africans should not remain observers of projects such as this. They should become their engineers, technicians, entrepreneurs, and leaders,” the Premier said. Prime Minister Abiy said the convergence of national leadership, private enterprise and regional cooperation could transform what the region produces and strengthens Africa’s capacity to meet its own growing needs. “Ethiopia welcomes this development,” he said, expressing hope that the Lamu refinery will serve Kenya while contributing to Africa’s broader drive to produce more of what it consumes. According to Dangote Group, the launch of Kenya’s 16-billion USD Lamu oil refinery marks a new chapter in Africa’s industrialization, with the 700,000-barrel-per-day facility demonstrating the continent’s growing capacity to build its own industrial future.

Addis Ababa, September 30, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrives in Kenya this morning ahead of the groundbreaking ceremony for the multibillion-dollar Lamu Petroleum Refinery. The project, backed by the Dangote Group, represents a major expansion of regional energy infrastructure in East Africa. Situated along the strategic Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) corridor, the facility is designed to process crude oil and supply refined petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, and aviation fuel, across neighboring markets. Once operational, the refinery will strengthen energy security and deepen trade links across East Africa.

Addis Ababa, September 30, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia’s comprehensive macroeconomic reform has delivered tangible results in easing the national debt burden and curbing inflation, Finance Minister Ahmed Shide announced. Speaking at the opening of the 2nd Finance Forum 2026 at the Adwa Victory Memorial on Tuesday, Ahmed noted that the success of the overarching economic reform reflects the ambitions of a great nation and its people. During a panel discussion at the forum, the Minister emphasized that Ethiopia is actively executing home-grown economic adjustments. The successful conclusion of debt restructuring agreements will alleviate fiscal pressure and ease foreign exchange constraints in synergy with broader macroeconomic measures, he elaborated. Ahmed further highlighted that boosting domestic revenue collection, bank savings, foreign direct investment, public-private partnerships, diaspora finance, and capital market development remains essential to building long-term financial resilience. Planning and Development Minister Fitsum Assefa stated that the reform measures have significantly curbed inflationary pressures. Fitsum pointed out that average annual inflation dropped from over 26 percent prior to the reform implementation to just above 16 percent one year later, attributing this progress to synchronized monetary and fiscal interventions. Key demand-side measures included the central bank's credit growth ceiling, the termination of direct fiscal financing, and targeted fiscal consolidation. On the supply side, initiatives in irrigation, agricultural mechanization, land use, and cluster farming enhanced yields and stabilized food supply. Notably, the national wheat initiative transformed Ethiopia from a wheat importer to self-sufficiency, she states. However, Fitsum cautioned that sustained inflation control faces ongoing domestic and external risks. She further emphasized that supply chain bottlenecks, rising fuel and transport costs, monetary policy credibility, and long-term fiscal consolidation require continued priority.

Addis Ababa, September 30, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopian Investment Holdings (EIH) says it is expanding beyond managing existing state-owned enterprises to develop new businesses in strategic sectors, with an ambition to build companies that can drive Ethiopia’s economic growth and expand across Africa. EIH Chief Executive Officer Brook Taye says the investment strategy is intended to preserve and strengthen the assets inherited from previous generations while creating new enterprises for the future. “So the investment side of EIH is equally important in terms of creating the next Ethiopian Airlines, the next Ethiotelecom, the next Commercial Bank of Ethiopia. Those are the companies we’ll be handing over. Currently we’re working on over 29 different investments. We’ve established up to five different companies that are working on several different sectors.” Beyond commercial returns, Brook says some investments are designed to address strategic needs, particularly where domestic capacity is important for national resilience. One example is a passport-printing company established in Ethiopia with a Japanese partner, following supply challenges experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. “As a sovereign, you manufacture, you produce what you think is important for your country. If you rely on a third party, it’s not about price, it’s about availability. So, as a result, what we’ve decided as EIH, with the direction of the government, is to establish a passport-printing company in Ethiopia. We’ve got a partner, a Japanese partner, Toppan. The factory is being completed, and we’re producing that in Ethiopia.” EIH is also exploring investment opportunities in agriculture, hospitality and mining, including plans involving agricultural land and the development of Ethiopia’s potash resources. Brook says the institution ultimately wants to extend its investment footprint beyond national borders. “In the next 5-10 years, I want EIH to be the most highly sought-after investment company in the continent. Our aim is to diversify our portfolio across the continent, not only Ethiopia, the same way Ethiopian Airlines has businesses across the continent. We want all our portfolio companies to be active. We want to drive economic growth in Ethiopia, be it in technology, agriculture, manufacturing.” Brook says EIH’s mandate is to manage its assets profitably and generate returns for the Ethiopian people, while investing in businesses that can support long-term economic growth. Its continental ambitions also point to a wider role for African investment institutions in building productive capacity and retaining more economic value within the continent.

Sept. 30, 2026 (ENA) The successful completion and inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has demonstrated that Ethiopia possesses the engineering, institutional and financial capacity to undertake projects of historic scale. The achievement has also opened a broader question: What comes next for Ethiopia’s development of the Abay (Blue Nile) Basin? GERD is more than a single hydropower project. With an installed capacity of 5,150 MW and a reservoir capacity of about 74 billion cubic metres, it represents one of Ethiopia’s largest infrastructure undertakings and a major expansion of the country’s capacity to develop its water and energy resources. The experience accumulated through GERD—from engineering and project management to financing, institutional coordination and human-resource development, provides Ethiopia with a substantial knowledge base for considering additional water-resource projects. The Abay Basin Has More Potential GERD is not the only hydropower opportunity identified in the Ethiopian Blue Nile system. An International Water Management Institute (IWMI) assessment found that more than 120 potential hydropower sites had been identified along the Ethiopian Blue Nile, while 26 were investigated in greater detail under the Abay River Basin Master Plan. The assessment also identified substantial potential for additional hydropower development, alongside irrigation schemes. More recent research further points to the possibility of integrating hydropower generation with irrigation development. Research available through Addis Ababa University indicates that a four-project cascade that could generate up to about 38 TWh of annual electricity under a hydropower-focused scenario, while integrated irrigation development would require balancing electricity generation against water-use needs. These findings do not mean that every identified project should automatically be constructed. Rather, they demonstrate that the Abay Basin contains a significant portfolio of technically identified opportunities that can be evaluated according to economic feasibility, environmental sustainability, downstream effects and Ethiopia’s long-term development priorities. From One Mega Project to a Broader Development Strategy For Ethiopia, the strategic significance of GERD therefore extends beyond electricity generation. Additional carefully planned hydropower and irrigation infrastructure could contribute to electricity supply, agricultural productivity, food security, industrialization and regional power connectivity. Hydropower could also strengthen Ethiopia’s renewable-energy base and create additional opportunities for electricity exports. The key lesson from GERD is that large national infrastructure projects require more than physical construction. They require long-term planning, institutional capacity, financing mechanisms, technical expertise, public participation and sustained national commitment. Solomon Zena, Executive Director of the Policy Innovation Research Center (PIRC), told ENA recently that Ethiopia should build on the experience gained through GERD. “The nation needs to move ahead and build more dams,” Solomon said, stressing that the successful completion of GERD demonstrated what Ethiopians could accomplish through unity and determination. His argument reflects a broader development proposition: GERD should not necessarily be viewed as the conclusion of Ethiopia’s major water-infrastructure ambitions, but as a foundation from which future projects can be evaluated. Development Rights and Shared Waters The debate over additional dams, however, cannot be separated from the broader Nile Basin dispute. Egypt has repeatedly opposed reports of additional Ethiopian dams. In August 2026, Egyptian Irrigation Minister Hani Sewilam said Egypt would not allow Ethiopia to build new dams on the Nile. Egyptian officials have also called for legally binding arrangements concerning the operation of GERD and Nile-water flows. Ethiopia, for its part, maintains its right to develop its water resources for economic and social development while arguing that its projects can be pursued without causing significant harm to downstream countries. This disagreement, particularly as tensions escalate over Egypt’s opposition to Ethiopia’s development projects, highlights a fundamental challenge in the Nile Basin: how the principle of equitable and reasonable utilization can be advanced in a way that respects the development rights of all riparian states. The issue should therefore be addressed through evidence, technical assessment and genuine cooperation—not through efforts to freeze development, particularly in the upstream countries of the basin. Beyond GERD The completion of GERD has changed the scale of what Ethiopia can realistically contemplate in terms of national infrastructure. The country now possesses experience from one of Africa’s largest hydropower projects, while the Abay Basin contains a much wider portfolio of historically identified hydropower and irrigation opportunities. The next phase should consequently focus on careful, technically sound and economically viable development and dam infrastructures. Additional dams should be considered project by project, based on hydrological data, economic returns, environmental and social impacts, irrigation requirements, climate resilience and Ethiopia’s aspiration for future development. GERD has demonstrated Ethiopia’s capacity to build at an unprecedented scale. The larger question now is how that capacity can be translated into a long-term, integrated Abay Basin development strategy that expands clean energy, supports agriculture and industry, strengthens regional electricity integration and advances Ethiopia’s development objectives while engaging constructively with downstream countries. The lesson of GERD is therefore not simply that Ethiopia can build a mega-dam. It is that Ethiopia has acquired the experience and institutional confidence to think beyond a single project and consider the next generation of transformative infrastructure.

Addis Ababa, September 29, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia is building a strong and vibrant financial sector to support the country’s development ambitions and sustainable economic growth, National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) Governor Eyob Tekalign said. Briefing the media on the sidelines of the second Ethiopia Finance Forum that opened today, the Governor noted that successful implementation of the country's development strategy requires significant resource mobilization, particularly financial resources to support investment and development. Therefore, the banking sector is being positioned to play a greater role in this process through increased capitalization, mergers and acquisitions, additional financing and participation of foreign banks. “The Central Bank will be focused on creating a very strong, vibrant financial sector that can really carry the development hurdles that the nation faces,” Eyob said.   The Governor said a stronger financial sector will help expand the capacity of the economy to support investment and productive activities. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining a sound macroeconomic foundation while advancing the country’s growth and development agenda. Eyob expressed confidence in Ethiopia’s economic prospects, pointing to the transformation achieved across the country over the past eight years. “Ethiopia’s progress offers significant promise for the coming decades, particularly for the country’s young generation,” he said. According to him, sustainable growth and macroeconomic stability will remain important foundations for achieving the country’s long-term development ambitions. The Governor further highlighted efforts to improve citizens’ living standards through higher incomes, greater productivity and improved access to essential goods and services. Housing and food production are among the key areas being addressed as part of efforts to improve livelihoods, he added. Increasing productivity and making essential food commodities more accessible can also contribute to improving household welfare. Eyob also noted that the government has significantly increased salaries for public servants as part of broader efforts to enhance citizens’ incomes.   The Governor stressed that the end result is to make sure people feel empowered and they have better livelihoods. “Strategy is judged by citizens’ results. What does it bring to an individual Ethiopian? And that’s the question,” he said. The Governor reaffirmed NBE’s commitment to strengthening Ethiopia’s financial sector and supporting investment, productivity, sustainable growth and improved livelihoods. The Ethiopia Finance Forum has brought together policymakers, financial institutions, development partners, private-sector leaders and members of the Ethiopian diaspora to discuss Ethiopia’s financial sector reform agenda.

Addis Ababa, September 29, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia has been pursuing economic and financial reforms that aim at moving the country from stabilization to economic transformation, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh said. Opening the second Ethiopia Finance Forum, the DPM said the country has undertaken major reforms in the foreign exchange market, monetary policy and financial-sector regulation, while opening sectors to competition and investment. “Nations do not transform themselves by choosing only what is easy. They transform themselves by doing what is necessary, and by sustaining that course long enough for reform to become institutions, for institutions to create confidence, and for confidence to create opportunity,” he elaborated. Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen pointed to improvements in exports, reserves and government revenues as well as easing inflationary pressures. He also noted improved access to foreign exchange and the easing of constraints affecting private investment.   The success of reforms should however be ultimately measured by their impact on citizens, he added, stressing that farmers, young people, women entrepreneurs and MSMEs should be able to access finance and expand their businesses. According to the DPM, capital is more than money and all depends on confidence in institutions, laws, markets and policy credibility. “Our response to uncertainty will not be retreat. It will be stronger institutions. Our response to pressure will not be abandonment of reform. It will be deeper reform. And our answer to those who doubt Ethiopia’s future will not be rhetoric alone; it will be results,” he noted. The next phase of reform will focus on moving from stabilization to transformation through expanded financial inclusion, agricultural finance, investment and deeper financial markets, Temesgen announced. The agenda also includes housing finance, insurance, depositor protection and modern financial-market infrastructure. Moreover, he highlighted digital transformation, cybersecurity, consumer protection and financial literacy as key elements of the financial-sector reform agenda. The government cannot deliver the transformation alone, the DPM stated, calling for stronger cooperation among the private sector, financial institutions, investors and development partners. Ethiopia’s growing domestic market, young population and potential in agriculture, manufacturing, energy and services create significant opportunities.   Temesgen stressed that economic growth must be inclusive and extended to financing opportunities to women, youth, farmers, MSMEs and communities beyond major cities. “Our task is therefore not merely to make finance larger. It is to make finance work better—more competitive, more innovative, more inclusive, more resilient, and more deeply connected to the productive economy.” The DPM urged forum participants to identify practical solutions and make concrete commitments, stressing that policies deliver results only through implementation. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to macroeconomic stability, responsible reform and a competitive private sector that expands opportunities for Ethiopians.   The three-day Ethiopia Finance Forum, running from September 29 to October 1, has brought together policymakers, financial institutions, investors, development partners and private-sector leaders.

Addis Ababa, September 29, 2026 (ENA) —An international coffee expo in Toronto has brought together Ethiopian coffee exporters and Canadian buyers in a bid to expand bilateral coffee trade and unlock new market opportunities. Organized by the Embassy of Ethiopia in Canada, the expo brought together Ethiopian coffee exporters, Canadian coffee importers, business leaders, industry experts, diplomats and other key stakeholders to promote Ethiopia’s coffee sector and forge stronger business-to-business (B2B) partnerships.   Opening the event, Ethiopian Ambassador to Canada Tewodros Girma said that despite Ethiopia’s immense coffee potential, direct coffee trade with Canada remains limited compared with the size and capacity of the Canadian market. He underscored the strong demand for coffee in Canada and the global reputation of Ethiopian coffee. Ambassador Tewodros further stressed the need to establish stronger and more direct connections between Ethiopian exporters and Canadian buyers. Representing the Coffee Association of Canada, Anna Mancini highlighted the significant potential of the Canadian coffee market and expressed the association’s readiness to work with Ethiopian coffee exporters to deepen collaboration and open new opportunities.   The expo provided a platform for direct trade networking, allowing Ethiopian exporters to engage with Canadian importers and industry stakeholders and explore opportunities to expand Ethiopia’s coffee presence in the Canadian market. In its press release sent to ENA, Ethiopian Embassy in Canada noted that the initiative highlights growing efforts to translate Ethiopia’s globally recognized coffee heritage into stronger direct trade links and expanded access to international markets.

Addis Ababa, September 28, 2026 (ENA) —Egypt’s escalating media and political rhetoric over the Nile is partly aimed at diverting public attention from mounting economic and livelihood pressures, journalist and writer Zahid Zidan said. In an exclusive interview with POA, Zahid pointed to rising living costs and economic difficulties in Egypt, saying the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and Nile water issues have increasingly featured in the country’s political and media discourse. His comments come amid continued economic challenges identified by international financial institutions. In a September 21, 2026 assessment, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said Egypt had shown resilience to recent external shocks but that significant vulnerabilities remained, including high public debt and large financing needs. The IMF has also projected inflation to rise to about 16.7 percent in the second half of 2026, citing higher energy prices, exchange rate pressures and other factors “They want to manufacture anything, any kind of material, a dark weapon to distract the Egyptian public,” Zahid said, arguing that heightened rhetoric over the Nile is being used to shift attention from domestic challenges. He cited what he described as claims in some Egyptian media outlets concerning the potential effects of GERD, as well as allegations that Ethiopia intends to transfer water to Israel. According to Zahid, such narratives contribute to keeping the dam at the center of public debate. He stressed that his criticism was directed at Egyptian media platforms and political figures whom he accused of exploiting external disputes, rather than at the Egyptian people. He said ordinary Egyptians are primarily concerned with everyday challenges, including meeting basic needs, earning livelihoods and supporting their families. The remarks come amid renewed exchanges between Ethiopia and Egypt over Nile water development. Ethiopia has consistently maintained that it has a sovereign right to develop its natural resources, including the Abay River, while advocating cooperation and shared development among Nile Basin countries. In a September 22 statement responding to remarks by Egyptian Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam, Ethiopia’s Ministry of Water and Energy reaffirmed the country’s right to utilize its natural resources and said transboundary rivers should promote “cooperation, shared prosperity, and regional integration.” The completion of GERD has also strengthened calls within Ethiopia for further investment in hydropower and irrigation projects along the Abay River. Supporters of additional development argue that the experience gained from GERD can help expand renewable electricity generation, strengthen energy security, support agricultural development and increase cross-border power connectivity.