Addis Ababa, January 15, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia has made significant progress in stabilizing its macroeconomic environment and strengthening public finances following the implementation of wide-ranging economic reforms over the past seven years, according to Minister of Finance Ahmed Shide. Speaking on at the Finance Forward Ethiopia conference, the minister said Ethiopia faced severe macroeconomic pressures seven years ago, including deep imbalances, a heavy debt burden, foreign-exchange shortages, and market instability. He noted that the government’s Home-Grown Economic Reform programs were introduced to address these challenges and have since delivered tangible results. As a result, Ethiopia has emerged as one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa, supported by stronger and more modern public institutions. Among the key outcomes of the reforms, Minister Ahmed said government revenue— including external inflows—has increased fivefold, while tax revenue has risen by 400 percent. Overall government revenue has grown by 446 percent compared to its 2010 level. In addition, Ethiopia mobilized a total of 25 billion US dollars in external resources over the past seven years. Budget allocations to poverty-focused sectors have quadrupled compared to 2010 levels, reflecting the government’s emphasis on inclusive growth. The minister also highlighted improvements in fiscal discipline, noting that the fiscal deficit was reduced from 2.5 percent in 2010 to 0.9 percent in 2017. “These reforms have enabled the design of strong, innovative, and efficient strategies to enhance government revenue and ensure macroeconomic stability,” Ahmed Shide said.

Addis Ababa, January 15, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said his government has taken deliberate and far-reaching measures to strengthen Ethiopia’s finance and economic institutions. Institution building and readiness are core responsibilities of government, he added. Writing about the Finance Forward Ethiopia conference he attended today, the PM said the high-level forum convened the nation’s key public finance and financial-sector institutions to evaluate the progress of the ongoing national reform agenda. The conference provided a vital platform served to highlight progress in fiscal management, monetary and financial sector reform, revenue administration, and capital market development. Additionally, the premier stated that strides in investment governance and public enterprise reform were noted as central to the national agenda. PM Abiy further emphasized the vital role of coordination and connectivity in sustaining reform momentum and advancing Ethiopia’s broader economic transformation agenda.

Addis Ababa, January 15, 2026 (ENA)—The favorable business environment created by the government has been attracting high-tech industries that generate huge foreign exchange, Industry Minister Melaku Alebel said. Following his visit to the Huajian Special Economic Zone, the Minister said the visit was mainly aimed at inspecting industries engaged in the investment sector, identify the assistance they need and extend the necessary support. Recalling the engagement of investors in few limited investment alternatives in the past, he added that there is now a growing interest in investing in modern, technology-based investments. The implementation of a policy that encourages investment by the government, the improvement in electricity supply, and deployment of qualified human resource in the sector are among the reasons for the increased interest in investing in Ethiopia, Melaku noted. As a result, Ethiopia's foreign exchange earnings from investment has been surging, he said, citing as an example the Toyo Solar Plant that recently started operation in Hawassa Industrial Park, generating 55 million USD in just six months. The Minister further stated that Digital Ethiopia 2030 has brought huge opportunities for the industry sector. The strategy will enable industries to increase their production by using high technology, ensure quality, and enhance competitiveness and accessibility in the global market. According to the Minister, trainings are being provided for actors in the sector so as to enable the factories carry out their endeavors with the support of digital technology. Huajian Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Vice President, Teferi Melesse said a company that produces solar cells has started operating in the Special Economic Zone. The company will carry out its activities in two phases, he stated, adding that in the first phase it plans to earn 100 million USD by supplying solar cells to the US market.

Addis Ababa, January 15, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is in attendance at the Finance Forward Ethiopia conference where six major institutions shaping the nation’s financial and revenue systems present and assess their performance to date. The institutions will unveil their strategic priorities for the next five years, according to the Office of the Prime Minister. Over the past five years, Ethiopia has undertaken far-reaching macroeconomic reforms that have delivered tangible progress in expanding financial inclusion.   From the shift to a market-based foreign exchange regime, to the rollout of home-grown economic reforms and the digitalization of payment systems, these years have been defined by bold and commendable government actions aimed at strengthening competitiveness across the financial sector.

Addis Ababa, January 15, 2026 (ENA)—ASCORP Holdings PSC, a privately owned investment firm headquartered in Abu Dhabi, has expressed strong interest in expanding its investment portfolio into Ethiopia. Driven by its commitment to participate in the UAE’s phenomenal economic growth, ASCORP Holdings PSC operates across a wide range of sectors, including industrial automation, security services, transportation, manufacturing, and food services. Ethiopia’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, Jemal Beker, held discussions with Khalfan Saeed Al Kaabi, Chairman of ASCORP Holdings and a prominent Emirati entrepreneur, to explore potential investment opportunities in Ethiopia. During the meeting, Ambassador Jemal highlighted Ethiopia’s steadily improving investment climate, underscoring opportunities emerging from the government’s Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda. He emphasized major infrastructure developments and the ongoing liberalization of key economic sectors as clear indicators of Ethiopia’s commitment to attracting global investors. Khalfan Saeed Al Kaabi commended Ethiopia’s leadership and the visible progress in infrastructure development, noting that these reforms have significantly enhanced investor confidence. He expressed ASCORP Holdings’ readiness to deploy capital and global expertise in Ethiopia, with particular interest in the hospitality and tourism sectors. ASCORP’s proposed investment plan includes the development of a luxury hotel, a golf training center, and a hospitality training institute aimed at strengthening local human capital and enhancing service excellence. Ambassador Jemal welcomed the interest and reaffirmed the Ethiopian government’s full institutional support for prospective investors. Both parties agreed to arrange a pre-investment visit to Ethiopia, enabling ASCORP’s technical team to engage with relevant government institutions and private-sector stakeholders to advance the proposed projects.

Addis Ababa, January 15, 2026 (ENA)—Addis Ababa captured the attention of millions around the world this week following a high-profile visit by internationally renowned social media influencer and live-streaming sensation IShowSpeed, an event city leaders say showcased Ethiopia’s true spirit to a global audience. As the capital of Ethiopia and Africa’s political and diplomatic hub, Addis Ababa has long played a central role on the international stage. Home to the African Union and numerous diplomatic missions, the city continues to strengthen its position as a destination of cultural richness, historical heritage, and growing global appeal. Blending ancient heritage with rapid urban transformation, Addis Ababa’s expanding infrastructure, improving cleanliness, and modern cityscape have increasingly drawn international attention. This transformation was on full display during IShowSpeed’s visit, which once again placed the city firmly in the global spotlight. Streaming live to millions of viewers worldwide, the visit underscored Ethiopia’s growing presence on the global digital stage, particularly among younger audiences. Viewers were offered a rare, unfiltered look at Addis Ababa’s lively streets, cultural landmarks, and renowned hospitality—sparking fresh interest in the city as an emerging travel destination. Addis Ababa City Administration Mayor Adanech Abiebie described the visit as far more than a celebrity appearance. She emphasized that it provided a powerful opportunity to showcase the city’s deep-rooted culture of hospitality, its growing beauty and cleanliness, and the dynamic energy of its people to the world. The visit quickly became a major topic of discussion across social media platforms, generating conversations far beyond Ethiopia’s borders. According to the Mayor, this surge in global interest is expected to translate into increased tourism, as international audiences witnessed an authentic and welcoming side of the country rarely portrayed on global platforms. At the heart of the event were Ethiopia’s youth. Mayor Adanech praised the “patriotic, talented, and influential youth” whose creativity, enthusiasm, and digital engagement helped shape the experience and amplify Ethiopia’s image worldwide. She also commended the strong collaboration among tourism, communication, and entertainment institutions that worked behind the scenes to ensure the visit’s success. Describing the coordination as “commendable,” the mayor said the event demonstrated what is possible when public institutions and creative industries work together with a shared sense of national pride. “This is just the beginning,” she said, expressing optimism that Addis Ababa’s story and Ethiopia’s broader narrative—will continue to reach and inspire audiences around the world.

Addis Ababa, January 14, 2026 (ENA)— The Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI) has laid significant milestones in driving agricultural modernization and food security over the last 15 years, Director General, Mandefro Nigussie said. Commemorating fifteen years of unwavering service to the nation’s farmers and the broader economy, the ATI marked its anniversary today. During the occasion, Mandefro Nigussie, the Director General, joined by senior officials, provided a comprehensive briefing on the Institute’s transformative journey and its strategic vision for the future. The director-general highlighted the key achievements, notably the institute's pivotal role in the National Wheat Development Program, which has established Ethiopia as Africa's leading wheat producer and reduced the nation’s reliance on wheat imports. Over the last decade and a half, ATI has empowered millions of smallholder farmers, enhancing productivity, improving market access, and encouraging the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices. Among its flagship initiatives, the Agricultural Commercialization Cluster (ACC) and ACCII organizes farmers in high-potential regions to boost market access and productivity, setting a precedent for other areas. Additionally, the Agriculture-focused Dignified Employment for Youth in Ethiopia (ADEY), in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation, has generated tens of thousands of jobs in agribusiness, offering essential support to youth, including those with disabilities. He added that ATI has also embraced technology to equip farmers with vital information through platforms like the 8028 Farmers' Hotline and the National Market Information System (NMIS). These initiatives enhance decision-making and operational efficiency for farmers across the country. On the institutional front, ATI has collaborated with numerous stakeholders to establish Regional Transformation Centers, facilitating the effective implementation and scaling of innovative agricultural practices nationwide. He underscored that the institute remains committed to disseminating knowledge and fostering a sustainable and inclusive agricultural transformation by scaling best practices and leveraging digital tools in both crop production and livestock sectors. Recognized for its exceptional contributions to sustainable agriculture, the ATI received the prestigious FAO Achievement Award 2025 from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), it was learned.

Addis Ababa, January 13, 2026 (ENA)— The Ministry of Finance and the World Bank have signed an additional financing agreement amounting to 250 million USD for the implementation of the Urban Productive Safety Net and Jobs Project. According to the social media post by the ministry, this additional financing will enable the Government of Ethiopia to intensify efforts to improve incomes for the urban poor. The financing will also enhance labor market inclusion for the youth and women. Accordingly, key activities include providing labor-intensive public work opportunities and livelihood grants targeting vulnerable urban households, it was learned. The financing will foster youth employment in line with the national job creation plan, and extending support to include refugees and host communities in selected localities. According to the post, the project will also strengthen social assistance systems through cash transfers and services aimed at social and economic reintegration. The agreement was signed virtually by Semereta Sewasew, State Minister of Finance, and Maryam Salim, World Bank Division Director for Ethiopia, Eritrea, Sudan, and South Sudan. According to the social media post by the ministry, this additional financing will enable the Government of Ethiopia to intensify efforts to improve incomes for the urban poor. The financing will also enhance labor market inclusion for the youth and women. Accordingly, key activities include providing labor-intensive public work opportunities and livelihood grants targeting vulnerable urban households, it was learned. The financing will foster youth employment in line with the national job creation plan, and extending support to include refugees and host communities in selected localities. According to the post, the project will also strengthen social assistance systems through cash transfers and services aimed at social and economic reintegration. The agreement was signed virtually by Semereta Sewasew, State Minister of Finance, and Maryam Salim, World Bank Division Director for Ethiopia, Eritrea, Sudan, and South Sudan.

Addis Ababa, January 14, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia is intensifying the expansion and modernisation of its road network as a central pillar of national development, regional integration, and economic transformation. In a social media post, the Office of the Prime Minister announced that large-scale investments are underway to construct new highways, upgrade key transport corridors, and expand rural and urban road networks, significantly improving nationwide connectivity. These projects are reducing travel times, enhancing road safety, and lowering transportation costs, resulting in a more efficient logistics system that supports trade, industrialisation, and agricultural productivity. Improved road access is also transforming daily life by connecting communities—particularly in previously underserved areas—to schools, healthcare facilities, and markets. By prioritising both new construction and long-term maintenance, Ethiopia is building a resilient, reliable, and sustainable transport system. This effort is strengthening local businesses, creating employment opportunities, and reinforcing the country’s position as a regional economic hub. The ambitious road development drive underscores Ethiopia’s commitment to inclusive economic growth, improved living standards, and long-term national prosperity.

Addis Ababa, January 13, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed called for a nationwide campaign to protect Ethiopia’s natural resources, stressing the urgency of tackling soil loss that he described as “extremely difficult to replace.” “Let Us Rise Up, Let Our Hands Touch the Soil, and Let Us Build Our Country”, PM Abiy made the calls on social media post today. “Because our environmental protection system is weak, we have been losing our fertile soil, which is extremely difficult to replace once it is gone,” the Prime Minister wrote. He welcomed the cooperative efforts between the people and government, saying it is “encouraging that the environmental protection work, begun through cooperation between the people and the government, has started in this way before the rainy season arrives.” PM Abiy further urged collective responsibility for conservation. “Let the development and conservation of our natural resources in every way be our collective duty,” he said, adding a call to action “Let us rise up, let our hands touch the soil, and let us build our country!”

Addis Ababa, January 13, 2026 (ENA)—A high-level lenders due diligence discussions are underway in Ethiopia to advance the financing of 300 MW Aysha 1 Wind Power Public-Private Partnership project, according to Ministry of Finance. The landmark independent wind power project and Ethiopia’s first utility-scale renewable energy Independent Power Producer (IPP) to be developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework is a flagship USD 620 million renewable energy development being implemented by the leading renewable energy developer AMEA Power. The project is structured as a PPP between the Government of Ethiopia, Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP), and AMEA Power.     Following the execution of the Power Purchase Agreement, Implementation Agreement and Land Lease Agreement on August 17, 2024, the African Development Bank and the International Finance Corporation have been confirmed as the mandated Lead Arrangers for the project’s financing. Speaking at the meeting that began yesterday, Finance Minister Ahmed Shide emphasized that Public-Private Partnerships are a central policy tool for closing the infrastructure financing gap and enhancing service delivery, particularly in the energy sector. The Minister underscored the strategic importance of the Aysha 1 Wind Power Project, noting that it is expected to set a benchmark for future renewable energy and PPP projects in the country. According to him, the project provides a replicable and financially viable framework to support Ethiopia’s clean energy ambitions and expand private sector participation in infrastructure development. Ahmed acknowledged the coordinated efforts of AMEA Power, the PPP Directorate General, and Ethiopian Electric Power, and welcomed IFC and AfDB as mandated lenders, noting that their participation validates the strength of the transaction. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transparency, pragmatism, and adherence to global project finance norms throughout the due diligence and negotiation process. Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP) Deputy-CEO, Ephraim Woldekidan, reaffirmed the utility’s commitment to the project, describing it as a flagship initiative that will significantly expand Ethiopia’s energy mix. The project reflects EEP’s interest in engaging private-financed energy projects in the future and reiterated their commitment to support the project in every possible way, he added. The discussions are scheduled to continue with further engagements involving the Ministry of Water and Energy, Petroleum and Energy Authority, Ethiopian Electric Power, and Ethiopian Electric Utility, followed by a site visit to the project location in Aysha Woreda, Somali Regional State, it was learned. Upon completion, the project will add 300 MW of clean energy to Ethiopia’s national grid, diversify the country’s renewable energy mix, and establish a landmark precedent for privately financed large-scale power generation projects in Ethiopia.

Addis Ababa, January 13, 2026 (ENA)—Various reform measures are being taken to make Ethiopia an aviation hub, Transport and Logistics Minister Alemu Sime said. The Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority has issued licenses for two organizations today. One of the licenses was issued to an organization providing maintenance services for private airlines. The institution is in the Ethiopian Air Force. Similarly, the authority has also issued license to the Aviation Training School to train people in international cargo aviation service. Speaking on the occasion, Transport and Logistics Minister Alemu Sime stated that reforms are being taken to make Ethiopia an aviation hub.. According to him, the Bishoftu International Airport, whose construction was recently launched by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, will create additional capacity in this regard. He also noted that the licenses granted to the two institutions today in the industry are of great significance.     The license given to the Ethiopian Air Force in the maintenance sector will significantly reduce the costs that private airlines spend on aircraft maintenance, he stated. Similarly, the other license issued to the Aviation Training School will play a significant role in the national journey to produce skilled manpower in the sector. He added that the training will have a positive contribution to the movement to produce professionals beyond Ethiopia. Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority Director-General, Yohannes Abera, said that the accreditation of the institutions has been confirmed as meeting the necessary criteria.     The ceremony was also attended by Ethiopian Air Force Commander Lieutenant General Yilma Merdasa and other senior government officials and stakeholders.

Addis Ababa, January 13, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s growing role as a regional logistics hub and industrial base is attracting increasing attention from Japanese companies seeking opportunities in Africa, according to Japan’s Foreign Affairs State Minister Kunimitsu Ayano. Speaking at the Ethio-Japan Business Forum held today in Addis Ababa, the State Minister said Ethiopia’s strategic position, expanding aviation network, and integration into the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) are enhancing its appeal as a gateway to regional markets.     The second-most populous African nation is emerging as a major future market for Japanese firms, she stated, adding that the country’s air connectivity, anchored by Ethiopian Airlines’ extensive continental routes, further strengthens its competitiveness as a logistics center. Ayano said that Japan supports Ethiopia’s ongoing macroeconomic reforms aimed at transitioning toward a private-sector-led economy. She cited the progresses in foreign exchange liberalization, opening sectors to foreign investment, and improving the business environment. According to her, Japan is providing bilateral assistance to enhance Ethiopia’s manufacturing and agricultural productivity, while encouraging continued reform to improve administrative efficiency and contract enforcement, among others, to attract more foreign investors. At the forum held today, 35 Japanese companies have participated, reflecting growing business interest between the two countries. Speaking at the event, Trade and Regional Integration Minister, Kassahun Gofe, said Ethiopia and Japan share a long-standing partnership that is now poised for deeper trade and investment cooperation driven by Ethiopia’s ongoing reforms. The Minister stated that bilateral trade continues on a positive trajectory, with Japan showing rising demand for Ethiopian agricultural exports such as coffee, sesame, and cut flowers, alongside growing interest in value-added products, including textiles.     Kassahun further emphasized Ethiopia’s commitment to regional and continental integration through AfCFTA, which offers access to a unified market of more than 1.4 billion people, and called on Japanese investors to leverage Ethiopia as a production and export base for Africa. Praising Japan’s global leadership in advanced manufacturing, automotive and electronics, green technology, agro-processing, and human resource development, he noted that deeper cooperation in these areas would support Ethiopia’s modernization through technology transfer and integration into global value chains.     Ethiopian Investment Commissioner Zeleke Temesgen said Ethiopia’s fast-growing economy and favorable demographic profile position the country as a strategic base for investment in Africa. He highlighted Ethiopia’s connectivity, logistics infrastructure, and proximity to major markets in the Middle East and Europe as key advantages for Japanese firms seeking regional access.     Ethiopia is strengthening its investor-friendly ecosystem by enhancing transparency, predictability, and regulatory reforms while offering competitive incentives such as tax exemptions and logistical support, the Commissioner added. He invited Japanese investors to engage in the priority sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, ICT, renewable energy, electric mobility, tourism, mining, and other emerging industries. Zeleke also stressed the government’s commitment to creating a stable and supportive environment for long-term investment. The Ethio-Japan Business Forum brought together government officials, business leaders, and representatives of more than 30 Japanese companies to explore trade, investment, and industrial cooperation opportunities. The participants discussed Ethiopia’s reform agenda, logistics potential, manufacturing development, and access to regional markets, with the forum serving as a platform to strengthen bilateral economic ties and encouraging concrete partnerships, joint ventures, and future investments between Ethiopia and Japan.

Addis Ababa, January 13, 2026 (ENA)—The Ethiopia-Japan Business Forum, which aims at strengthening trade and investment ties between the two countries, is underway. The forum welcomed a delegation led by Japan's State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Kunimitsu Ayano, along with representatives from over 35 Japanese companies and members of Ethiopia’s business community. Speaking at the opening, Minister of Trade and Regional Integration, Kassahun Gofe, highlighted the long-standing and cordial relationship between Ethiopia and Japan, grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and a common vision for sustainable development.   He noted that the forum offered a comprehensive overview of the opportunities arising from Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reforms. “Today’s discussions will play a crucial role in enhancing sustainable trade and investment relations, ensuring mutual benefits,” Minister Kassahun said. “We will continue to work diligently to transform our ideas into tangible projects.” He also reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to expanding bilateral, regional, and multilateral trade ties, emphasizing that cooperation with Japan will support the country’s vision for national prosperity.

Addis Ababa, January 13, 2026 (ENA)—A high-level Japanese business delegation led by State Minister for Foreign Affairs Kunimitsu Ayano has paid an official visit to Ethiopia’s Bole Lemi Special Economic Zone, highlighting growing momentum in trade and investment relations between Ethiopia and Japan. According to the Industrial Parks Development Corporation (IPDC), the delegation, comprising more than 48 representatives from over 35 Japanese companies. ​​The delegation received a comprehensive briefing from Bole Lemi Special Economic Zone Manager Tinsae Yimam on the zone’s operations, investment potential, and expansion plans. During the visit, the delegation toured several companies operating within the zone, including Jay Jay Textile, a major garment and textile manufacturer, and inspected the construction site of the Toppan Gravity factory. The facility, a joint venture between Japanese and Ethiopian partners, will specialize in security printing production once operational. The visit is part of a broader engagement in Ethiopia led by Japanese State Minister for Foreign Affairs Kunimitsu Ayano, aimed at identifying concrete trade and investment opportunities across key economic sectors. In parallel, delegation members are also participating in the Ethiopia–Japan Business Forum being held today, an event expected to further strengthen and elevate bilateral trade and economic cooperation between the two countries.

Addis Ababa, January 13, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia’s role as a global leader in the energy transition was underscored during the 16th Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), held in the United Arab Emirates. Delivering Ethiopia’s message at the assembly, Ambassador Jemal Beker said the country, as a founding member of the Accelerated Partnership for Renewables in Africa (APRA), is at the forefront of efforts to advance Africa’s transition toward a green economy. He noted that Ethiopia derives more than 98 percent of its energy from renewable sources and has introduced transformative policy measures, including a ban on fossil-fuel vehicle imports, positioning the country as a pace-setter for a green industrial revolution. IRENA, the world’s leading intergovernmental organization for renewable energy, serves as its top decision-making body, setting the global agenda, approving budgets, endorsing work programs, and strengthening international cooperation to accelerate the energy transition. The assembly comes amid shifting global dynamics, taking place just days after the United States announced its intention to withdraw from IRENA. During the opening plenary on Sunday, Kenya was elected Vice President of the 16th Assembly, representing Africa. Ambassador Jemal reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to sharing its experience in carbon-free energy development, highlighting the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as more than a power project, describing it as a symbol of regional integration and climate resilience. “Our message is clear: the future is renewable, and Ethiopia is ready to lead,” he said in a social media post. He further stated that Ethiopia will play an active role in helping the continent achieve the Nairobi Declaration goal of tripling renewable energy generation capacity by 2030. Ethiopia’s policy initiatives promoting green industrial development powered by renewable energy and expanding access to electric vehicles were also presented as best practices for partner countries. Looking ahead, Ambassador Jemal noted that the 32nd UN Climate Change Conference (COP32), which Ethiopia is set to host in 2027, will provide a major platform for APRA member states to showcase their achievements. He called on partner nations to stand in solidarity with Ethiopia in preparation for the event. The Accelerated Partnership for Renewables in Africa (APRA) was established in September 2023 and currently includes 10 African countries, with Ethiopia among its founding members.

Addis Ababa, January 12, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia and Japan have agreed to strengthen their strategic economic partnership with the aim of expanding investment flows and enhancing bilateral trade relations, following high level discussions held in Addis Ababa. The understanding was reached during a business meeting between Ethiopia’s Minister of Finance Ahmed Shide, and a joint public private mission from Japan led by State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Kunimitsu Ayano. The engagement brought together senior government officials and private sector leaders from both countries. The Japanese mission, the third of its kind since 2008, included representatives from around 40 Japanese companies and a total of 48 participants from public and private institutions. Officials said the size and composition of the delegation reflected growing Japanese interest in Ethiopia’s investment and trade potential. During the meeting, Minister Ahmed Shide outlined Ethiopia’s ongoing reforms under the “Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda,” noting that the program is designed to promote private sector led growth and economic diversification. He said current reform priorities focus on manufacturing and industrialization, energy development, agro processing, logistics, and the digital economy, alongside sector liberalization in telecommunications, technology, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals. The minister stated that the government is working closely with relevant institutions to improve investment incentives, strengthen tax administration, ensure capital repatriation, expand public private partnership access to industrial parks, and implement robust PPP frameworks. According to the ministry, these measures are intended to build a transparent and investor friendly environment for foreign companies operating in Ethiopia. Members of the Japanese delegation raised operational concerns related to customs clearance delays, taxation clarity, and access to foreign currency. In response, Minister Ahmed Shide pledged to address the challenges and announced the establishment of a dedicated “Japan Desk” within the Ethiopian Investment Commission to support smoother market entry and business operations for Japanese firms. Ethiopia also invited Japanese companies to explore opportunities in emerging and strategic sectors, including venture capital for mobility startups, space technology, digital innovation, industrial development, energy, agro processing, and logistics. Japanese participants expressed particular interest in infrastructure and transport projects, including potential investment linked to the Bishoftu International Airport. The mission concluded with bilateral discussions aimed at deepening economic cooperation and sector specific collaboration, held in the presence of State Minister Semereta Sewasew, Japan’s Ambassador to Ethiopia Shibata Hironori, Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Japan Daba Debele, and senior officials from the Ministries of Finance and Foreign Affairs.

Addis Ababa, January 12, 2026 (ENA)— The Ethiopian government and Starbucks officials held discussions on how to expand Ethiopian coffee in the global markets. Minister of Agriculture Addisu Arega has held talks with Starbucks Vice President Roberto Vega Alonso on strengthening and sustaining the long-standing partnership between Ethiopia and Starbucks, with a focus on expanding Ethiopian coffee’s presence in global markets. The discussion centered on securing a reliable supply of specialty coffee and increasing the share of Ethiopian coffee used in Starbucks products worldwide. In a statement shared on social media, Minister Addisu said, “Our discussion focused on ensuring a reliable supply of specialty coffee and reaching a shared understanding that will meaningfully increase the role and share of Ethiopian coffee within Starbucks’ coffee recipes.” He added that Starbucks reaffirmed its commitment to further support Ethiopia’s smallholder coffee farmers by improving production and productivity. Starbucks is the world’s largest specialty coffee buyer, and its engagement in Ethiopia primarily focuses on sourcing and long-term partnership. According to available reports, Starbucks’ coffee purchases from Ethiopia increased by about 400 percent in the years following cooperation agreements with Ethiopian stakeholders. The company sources coffee from a range of producers, including large scale farms operated by MIDROC Investment Group, and periodically releases single origin Ethiopian coffee in its global stores, highlighting Ethiopia’s coffee heritage and traditional brewing culture. Previously, World Coffee Research Asia and Africa Director Kraig Kraft underscored Ethiopia’s unique position in the global coffee industry. In an exclusive interview with ENA, he said, “Ethiopian coffee occupies a very special place globally. As the birth place of coffee, there is incredible diversity and quality of Ethiopian coffee that every company wants to purchase and every coffee drinker around the globe wants to drink.” He added, “I think everyone across the globe purchases Ethiopian coffee.” Reports indicate that more than five million Ethiopian households depend on coffee production for their livelihoods. Kraig noted that while Ethiopia has vast coffee varieties and strong global demand, innovation is needed to help farmers better access international markets, stressing that the future of Ethiopian coffee remains bright. Ethiopia’s coffee diplomacy has also gained momentum in North Africa. On February 3, 2025, officials of MUNDO Coffee, a premium Dutch founded coffee brand, expressed interest in visiting Ethiopia to engage with local exporters on technical cooperation. Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Algeria, Muktar Mohamed, held discussions with MUNDO Coffee officials, who explained that their company imports coffee from countries including Vietnam, Indonesia, Côte d'Ivoire and Brazil to supply the Algerian market. The officials noted that Ethiopian Arabica coffee currently reaches Algeria through European intermediaries. Ambassador Muktar briefed them on the advantages of importing directly from Ethiopia in terms of quality, cost and logistics, highlining efficient transport options and reduced cargo service fees offered by Ethiopian Airlines to coffee importers sourcing directly from Ethiopia. The Ambassador emphasized that direct trade would strengthen intra African trade and contribute to continental development. He expressed readiness to visit MUNDO Coffee’s headquarters, an offer the company welcomed, indicating plans to arrange a visit program. The Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority announced on May 2, 2025 that the sector recorded remarkable achievements over the past nine months, marking a historic milestone in coffee exports. Ethiopia’s top ten coffee export destinations currently include Saudi Arabia, Germany, the United States, Belgium, China, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, Italy and Jordan.

Addis Ababa, January 12, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia and Japan reaffirmed their strong bilateral relations and pledged to deepen economic cooperation during a meeting between Ethiopian and Japanese officials today. Minister of Foreign Affairs Gedion Timothewos received a delegation led by Kunimitsu Ayano, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, at his office. Speaking at the meeting, FM Gedion highlighted the historic ties between the two countries, noting robust cooperation at both bilateral and multilateral levels, and expressed Ethiopia’s appreciation for Japan’s long-standing development assistance. FM Gedion also emphasized that relations have continued to grow, particularly in trade and investment, and stressed the importance of expanding economic collaboration. State Minister Kunimitsu Ayano underscored the significance of sustaining and deepening Ethiopia–Japan partnerships in these areas. During the visit, FM Gedion briefed a delegation of 48 business representatives from over 35 Japanese companies, presenting Ethiopia’s investment-friendly environment and the benefits of ongoing macroeconomic reforms. State Minister Ayano welcomed the briefing and confirmed the delegation’s participation in the Ethiopia–Japan Business Forum scheduled for tomorrow, a key platform expected to further strengthen economic ties.

Addis Ababa, January 12, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia is significantly scaling up its investment in water infrastructure to ensure reliable access for households, industry, and the agricultural sector. In a statement shared on its official social media account, the Office of the Prime Minister highlighted the nation's comprehensive approach to water resource management. The office noted that current initiatives are designed to bridge the gap in water accessibility while fostering long-term economic resilience and food security. "Ethiopia is actively investing in water infrastructure to improve access to safe and reliable water for households, agriculture, and industry," the Office of the Prime Minister stated. The ongoing efforts encompass a wide array of projects, including the expansion of piped water systems and the rehabilitation of existing dams and reservoirs. These infrastructure developments are closely tied to the national development agenda, with a particular focus on enhancing irrigation and water storage capabilities to support farming and food security. Beyond economic utility, the initiatives aim to transform public health outcomes. The office emphasized that these efforts focus on improving sanitation, reducing the prevalence of waterborne diseases, and strengthening the nation's resilience against the recurring challenges of droughts and climate change. "By prioritising sustainable water management and equitable access, Ethiopia is ensuring communities have the resources they need for health, livelihoods, and economic growth, while building a foundation for long-term development," the Office of the Prime Minister added. By integrating sustainable management practices, the government seeks to create an equitable distribution of water resources, ensuring that the foundation for Ethiopia’s future growth remains secure and inclusive for all citizens.