Addis Ababa, May 7, 2026 —The ongoing Made in Ethiopia Expo 2026 showcases the industrial achievements of the country and its bright future, according to President Taye Atseke Selassie. The President visited the Fourth Made in Ethiopia Expo today. The expo at the Addis International Convention Center, under the theme “Made in Ethiopia for Multifaceted Sovereignty”, is open to the public. Noting that industry plays a vital role for a nation’s development, the President stressed the need for intensifying such efforts as part of ensuring Ethiopia's development. President Taye said that the locally manufactured products on display have significant contributions not only for import substitution but also to attract investments as well and earn capital. Commenting about export-standard products on display, he stated that most already have market access. According to the President, the locally manufactured products on display are a showcase of how Ethiopia’s capacity and knowledge are transformed into a new phase. The agro-processed products at the expo might also be valuable for the international market with their organic value, he added. Countries with high manufacturing self-sufficiency can stand by themselves and ensure sovereignty, he pointed out, calling on local manufactures to intensify our efforts to ensure sovereignty.

Addis Ababa, May 7, 2026 —Prominent African social media influencers visiting Addis Ababa today have expressed their admiration for Ethiopia's rapid advancements in AI, urban cleanliness, and hospitality, as they gear up for the African Social Media Influencers Summit (ASMIS) in the capital. The Kenyan influencer Mbote Njogu marveled at the capital's beauty and tech edge during a tour of the AI center.   In an exclusive interview with ENA, he said: "I thought Nairobi was beautiful, but I've seen Addis is very beautiful. Very welcoming people". According to Njogu, "Addis is far much ahead of Kenya. AI is the next big thing... (And) I'm very proud to see that Ethiopia has already adapted the AI, and they have the AI center. Right now, I don't think we have an AI institute in Kenya." Praising the cleanliness of the city, he appreciated the welcoming government and luxurious event buses. "I've never ridden in such a bus on the high top. We are very impressed and we look forward to coming more and more again." Burkinabé influencer LA Jaguar echoed the enthusiasm, highlighting Ethiopia's mindset and development model.   The "Ethiopian development, energy and internet development is very good," he declared. "I'm very happy because Ethiopia is the seat of development... I take this opportunity to call many people in other country to come to Ethiopia." On his second visit to Ethiopia, Jaguar said he was touched by locals comportment: " I am touched by the comportment of the people... If your friend, your brother, your sister considers you, life is good." Organizers of the May 7-8 summit, the Pulse of Africa (POA) media and AGA Tech Enterprise, position the African Social Media Influencers Summit as a pivotal platform.   It aims to empower African content creators to counter negative stereotypes and amplify balanced narratives about the continent's progress.

Addis Ababa, May 7, 2026 —Ethiopia stepped up efforts to attract more investment from Turkey during the Ethio–Turkey Business Forum held at Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa. The forum brought together government officials, business leaders, investors, manufacturers, and innovators from both countries to strengthen bilateral trade and investment ties. During the event, officials highlighted Ethiopia’s growing appeal as an investment destination, citing its strategic geographic location, ongoing economic reforms, and vast untapped business opportunities. They encouraged Turkish companies to explore new ventures and expand their footprint in Ethiopia’s rapidly growing market.   The forum also featured business-to-business (B2B) meetings designed to foster partnerships between private sector representatives from both countries and boost trade cooperation. An exhibition showcasing garments and other products from Turkish companies was also held, with strong participation from businesses represented by the Bursa Chamber of Commerce and Industry. In a key outcome of the event, the Addis Ababa Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Associations and the Bursa Chamber of Commerce and Industry signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at promoting trade and investment between the two business communities.   The agreement was signed by Addis Chamber President Zehara Mohammed and Bursa Chamber President İbrahim Burkay at the event in Addis Ababa. Organized through collaboration between the Government of Turkey, Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Addis Ababa Chamber of Commerce, and the Bursa Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the forum brought more than 160 Turkish companies to Addis Ababa as both nations move to deepen economic cooperation.

Addis Ababa, May 7, 2026 —Airbus’s Airline Marketing Director for Africa, Joep Ellers, has described Ethiopian Airlines as Africa’s true aviation success story. Ellers highlighted the group’s long-standing contribution to connectivity and economic development across the continent. Speaking to ENA on the airline’s role in Africa’s aviation sector, Ellers said the airline—operating for more than 80 years, has played a central role in improving air connectivity within Africa and internationally. He noted that Ethiopian Airlines continues to operate modern aircraft such as the Airbus A350-900 and A350-1000, reflecting its commitment to fleet modernization and efficiency. Ellers emphasized that the airlines is a major driver of socio-economic development, pointing out its role in boosting tourism, attracting investment, and creating employment both within airlines and across related industries. “It brings social and economic benefits, jobs, and enhanced national economic performance,” he said. He also praised Ethiopian Airlines’ expansion strategy and described its ambition to connect destinations across Africa and global markets as a reflection of a strong “pioneer spirit.” Recalling a personal experience on an A350 flight from Paris, Ellers commended the airline’s service culture, saying the crew stood out for their attentiveness and warmth, making passengers feel “welcomed and valued.” Beyond operations, Ellers highlighted the growing partnership between Airbus and Ethiopian Airlines. He said the two organizations collaborate closely on aircraft maintenance support, fleet planning, and future development projects, including discussions around aircraft such as the A220 and A330neo. He also pointed to joint efforts in aviation training and education through the Ethiopian Aviation Academy, which works with Airbus and international universities, including institutions in France, to develop advanced aviation programs. Ellers further noted that Ethiopian Airlines has built a wider aviation ecosystem beyond passenger services. This includes maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) operations, an aviation university, hospitality services, and visa-related support. He said the airline is actively involved in training, aircraft maintenance for both its own fleet and other operators, and maintains daily cooperation with Airbus technical teams. He concluded that the partnership between Airbus and Ethiopian Airlines continues to deepen across multiple areas, reflecting a long-term commitment to strengthening Africa’s aviation industry.

Addis Ababa, May 7, 2026 —Ethiopia’s Trade and Regional Integration Minister, Kassahun Gofe, announced that he held bilateral talks with Elnur Aliyev, First Deputy Minister of Economy of Azerbaijan to strengthen trade cooperation between the two nations. The meeting follows the momentum created by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s official visit to Baku in February 2026, a trip officials say opened a new chapter in relations between the two countries.   During the discussions, both sides reviewed progress in bilateral trade ties and acknowledged that current trade volumes remain below the potential of their economies. They emphasized the importance of expanding commercial cooperation and unlocking new trade opportunities. Minister Kassahun highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing macroeconomic reforms, saying the measures are helping create a more liberalized and investment-friendly business environment.   He noted that these reforms present growing opportunities for Azerbaijani investors seeking to enter Ethiopia’s expanding market. He also underscored Ethiopia’s strategic role as a gateway to Africa through the African Continental Free Trade Area, saying stronger ties with Ethiopia could help Azerbaijan access broader markets across the continent.   For his part, Aliyev reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to deepening bilateral trade relations and exploring new areas of economic cooperation with Ethiopia.

Addis Ababa, May 6, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia has launched the Second African Forum on Sovereign Finance, bringing together top policymakers and financial leaders to address rising debt vulnerabilities and tightening fiscal space across the continent. The three-day gathering, held in Addis Ababa, has convened representatives from finance ministries, debt management offices, multilateral institutions, credit rating agencies and institutional investors under the theme “Enhancing Fiscal Space and Debt Sustainability.” The forum is jointly organized by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) and FSD Africa. Opening the session, State Minister Semereta Sewasew cautioned that successive global shocks have deepened fiscal pressures across African economies. She noted that external financial buffers have steadily eroded, with foreign exchange reserves relative to external debt declining sharply over the past decade. “Debt management is no longer a technical function at the margins of government, it is now central to macroeconomic stability, development strategy and policy credibility,” she said. She added, “Successive global shocks, from the pandemic to geopolitical conflicts, have fundamentally reshaped the sovereign financing environment for African economies. Borrowing costs have increased, exchange rate pressures have intensified and fiscal buffers have weakened.” Highlighting Ethiopia’s reform trajectory following the approval of its International Monetary Fund program in July 2024, Semereta pointed to progress in exchange rate liberalization, domestic revenue mobilization and fiscal transparency. “The results are encouraging: inflation is moderating, exports are expanding, reserves are rebuilding, fiscal space is improving and growth remains strong,” she said, adding that Ethiopia secured 3.5 billion US dollars in debt relief under the G20 Common Framework. She called for coordinated action to reduce borrowing costs, strengthen domestic capital markets and scale up concessional financing. Executive Secretary of the UNECA, Claver Gatete, described the forum as a platform for urgent and sustained reform. “As we speak, growth is slowing, financial conditions are tightening and uncertainty is no longer episodic but persistent,” he said. “These global shifts are already transmitting directly into African economies, shaping fiscal space, constraining policy choices and raising the cost of capital at a time when investment is most needed.” Despite mounting pressures, he pointed to signs of resilience. “Growth in the IMF sub–Saharan Africa region has recovered to 3.5 percent this year and is projected to increase further to 4 percent next year. This is Africa’s moment of momentum, but that momentum is threatened by our debt burden,” he warned. Chief Executive Officer of FSD Africa, Mark Napier, highlighted the links between debt, climate finance and market reforms. “I hope that we can use this opportunity, and I’m glad there was reference to COP32 and Ethiopia’s role in that, to advance climate finance as well,” he said. He added, “The connection between sovereign debt and climate, and sovereign debt and domestic capital market reform, are part of an interconnected system, and we should think about how that all comes together.” Delegates are expected to conclude the forum with concrete strategies aimed at unlocking private investment and expanding fiscal space to support sustainable development across Africa.

Addis Ababa, May 6, 2026 (ENA) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Ethiopia’s summer wheat cultivation is yielding remarkable gains, signaling a major shift in agricultural performance and strengthening the country’s food security outlook. The Prime Minister made the remarks after inspecting wheat grown on 2,150 hectares of farmland in Sululta Woreda of North Shewa Zone in the Oromia Region.     Speaking during the field visit, PM Abiy highlighted the transformation driven by expanding cultivation into previously unused land. “Land should not be left fallow, we must free ourselves from dependency,” he said, noting that summer wheat farming, once uncommon in Ethiopia, has now become a central pillar of agricultural transformation. He indicated that wheat was cultivated on 4.4 million hectares during the previous summer season and on 3.8 million hectares this year, bringing the combined total to more than 8 million hectares.     Production has surpassed 330 million quintals, placing Ethiopia among Africa’s leading wheat producers, he added. Referring to output trends, the Prime Minister said last year’s combined summer and winter harvest reached 280 million quintals. “This year’s production has increased by 50 million quintals,” he stated. PM Abiy attributed the growth to expanded farmland and improved productivity. He pointed to North Shewa Zone as one of the areas registering notable yield improvements, due to the use of previously uncultivated land and more efficient resource utilization. Irrigation development, including river diversion and the use of seasonal rains, has also contributed to increased output, he noted. Highlighting the economic impact, the Prime Minister further said rising productivity is translating into better livelihoods for farmers. “Increased productivity has enhanced income and improved livelihoods,” he said.     He stressed that the experience in the area demonstrates how focused effort and effective resource use can deliver tangible results, while underlining the importance of scaling up agricultural innovation to further boost productivity nationwide. Calling for sustained momentum, the prime minister urged farmers, extension workers and officials to build on the current progress. “The progress we are seeing shows that Ethiopia has strong potential for growth,” he said. “We must use every day and every season to produce, not only to feed ourselves but to support others.”     He acknowledged that challenges remain but emphasized they can be overcome through continued commitment. “We will overcome the obstacles in our development journey,” he said. In a social media post following the visit, the Prime Minister reaffirmed that efforts to strengthen national food self-sufficiency are advancing steadily. He noted that the country’s push for food sovereignty continues to deliver encouraging results through expanded wheat cultivation across Ethiopia.

Addis Ababa, May 6, 2026 (ENA) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to achieve food sovereignty are yielding strong results, highlighting the country’s expanding wheat production initiatives. In a social media post, after visiting a large-scale wheat farm in the Oromia region, North Shewa Zone’s Sululta district, the prime minister said the government’s initiative to strengthen national food self-sufficiency is making significant progress.   “Today, in the Oromia Region, in the North Shewa Zone, Sululta district, we toured and observed a thriving wheat farm cultivated on 2,150 hectares of land,” PM Abiy said. He noted that Ethiopia’s food sovereignty campaign, launched to reduce reliance on food imports and boost domestic agricultural productivity, continues to show encouraging outcomes through expanded wheat farming projects across the country.   The Prime Minister’s remarks come as Ethiopia intensifies efforts to enhance agricultural production and ensure long-term food security through large-scale farming initiatives.

Addis Ababa, May 5, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia’s Bounty of the Basket (Yelemat Tirufat) initiative has become an increasingly important national effort to improve nutrition, expand domestic food production, and reduce dependence on imported food products, former Deputy Prime Minister Demeke Mekonnen said. Demeke, who currently serves as founder and chairman of the Adam Foundation, said the government-led initiative has the potential to improve access to nutritious food, particularly for mothers and children—while supporting Ethiopia’s long-term economic self-reliance. Approached by ENA, Demeke stressed that proper nutrition is fundamental to public health and national productivity, noting that malnutrition continues to undermine human development. “Nutrition plays a critical role in building a healthy and productive society,” he said, emphasizing that maternal and child nutrition should remain a national priority. He highlighted the importance of the first two years of a child’s life, describing it as a critical window for cognitive and physical development, a view widely supported by global health experts. The Bounty of the Basket Initiative was launched by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in October 2022 in Arba Minch with the goal of boosting production in key food sectors including poultry, dairy, honey, and fisheries. At the launch event, PM Abiy said the initiative was designed to replicate successes achieved through Ethiopia’s wheat production drive and the Green Legacy Initiative. “The changes Ethiopia has achieved in wheat development, green footprint, and other national initiatives will also be repeated through the Bounty of the Basket work,” Premier Abiy said at the time. Government officials say the program is intended to strengthen supply chains between producers and consumers while improving access to affordable and diversified food products. Demeke said the initiative has already shown “encouraging results,” though he did not cite specific figures to support the claim. Independent evaluations of the program’s long-term impact on nutrition, poverty reduction, and food security remain limited. Ethiopia continues to face major food security pressures driven by conflict, inflation, climate shocks, and recurring drought in several regions, according to humanitarian agencies. These challenges have strained household access to food despite government efforts to increase agricultural production. Authorities have introduced broader reforms aimed at strengthening food systems and reducing malnutrition, while development partners continue to call for stronger implementation, greater investment, and better coordination between the agriculture and health sectors. The Adam Foundation, registered under Ethiopia’s Civil Society Organizations Authority, said it is working with institutions in both sectors to address malnutrition through partnerships and public awareness campaigns. The organization added that its work aligns with African Union’s Agenda 2063, which includes broader goals of reducing malnutrition across Africa. While supporters say the initiative could improve food sovereignty and nutrition outcomes, analysts caution that its long-term success will depend on measurable implementation results, stable food prices, and broader economic and political stability.

Addis Ababa, May 4, 2026 —Bahir Dar, the Amhara regional capital, is entering a new phase of tourism-led transformation as major investments and flagship developments begin reshaping the city’s economic and cultural landscape, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh said. Speaking at the official launch of the Four Points by Sheraton Tana Hotel, Temesgen described the 3.3 billion Birr project as a major milestone in Bahir Dar’s ambition to become one of Ethiopia’s leading tourism destinations. The hotel, which will be developed by MIDROC Investment Group on the historic site of the former Tana Hotel, is expected to be completed within 18 months. “This major project marks a significant step forward for the rise of Bahir Dar and our country as a tourism destination, while also contributing to economic recovery,” Temesgen said.   He noted that the investment reflects growing confidence from the private sector and praised MIDROC for its continued engagement in key sectors such as agriculture, mining, and tourism. “The company’s proactive role in filling critical investment gaps during challenging times serves as a strong example,” he added. Temesgen emphasized that the project aligns with Ethiopia’s broader efforts to build a resilient and sustainable economy through tourism development and private-sector participation. MIDROC Investment Group Chief Executive Officer Jamal Ahmed reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the project, saying the government’s improving investment climate has created favorable conditions for expanding tourism infrastructure. “We are taking advantage of the favorable environment created by the government to contribute to the revival of the tourism sector,” Jamal said. He added that the hotel will meet international standards and be delivered on schedule.   The new hotel will be built on 32,440 square meters of land and will feature 120 modern guest rooms, four international restaurants, a conference hall capable of hosting more than 1,000 guests, and leisure facilities including a swimming pool. Alongside the hotel launch, the Deputy Prime Minister also inaugurated the Felege Ghion Eco Resort, describing it as another major step in strengthening Bahir Dar’s tourism appeal. “Lake Tana is an inexhaustible source of development and a beacon of beauty that will never fade,” Temesgen said. He highlighted Bahir Dar’s unique geographic significance—where Lake Tana meets the Abay River (Blue Nile)—describing the city as a destination capable of refreshing “the human spirit, body, and soul.” According to Temesgen, tourism projects such as the Gorgora Eco Resort and the newly inaugurated Felege Ghion Eco Resort are helping elevate the region’s profile both locally and internationally. Developed under the government’s Gebeta Le Hager Initiative, the eco-resort includes entertainment facilities, retail spaces, an amphitheater, and riverfront infrastructure designed to boost tourism activity and create economic opportunities.   “It is a resort that strengthens the local tourism industry while adding a new layer of beauty and growth to the city,” he said. Temesgen said the government remains committed to developing tourism as a strategic economic sector and urged investors who have already secured land in Bahir Dar to begin implementation without delay. Reflecting on the city’s future, he described Bahir Dar as a place where history and modern development intersect. “Hundreds of years have passed since history began to be written in this area. Today, history is moving forward,” he said. During his visit, the Deputy Prime Minister also toured several major infrastructure projects, including the Bahir Dar Stadium, a new airport terminal, the regional Supreme Court, and ongoing corridor development projects. “We have confirmed that our path is right and our destination is certain,” Temesgen said. “We will not rest until Bahir Dar becomes a cradle of civilization.”

Addis Ababa, May 4, 2026 —Ethiopia’s ongoing macroeconomic reform program is delivering encouraging economic results, with stronger-than-expected growth and easing inflation, Finance Minister Ahmed Shide told lawmakers on Monday. Presenting the Ministry of Finance’s nine-month performance report to the House of People’s Representatives (HPR)’s Standing Committee on Planning, Budget and Finance, the misnister said reforms introduced since the 2017 Ethiopian fiscal year have begun producing measurable improvements across key economic indicators. “Since the implementation of the inclusive macroeconomic reform program, several encouraging economic outcomes have been registered,” the minister told members of parliament. According to Minister Ahmed, Ethiopia’s economy outperformed earlier forecasts, expanding by 9.2 percent, compared with the government’s initial projection of 8.4 percent.   He said the government expects growth to accelerate further to 10.2 percent in the 2018 Ethiopian fiscal year if reform efforts continue, potentially positioning Ethiopia among Africa’s fastest-growing economies. The minister said the government is also introducing additional measures this fiscal year to strengthen the reform agenda. “In the current fiscal year, a series of reform measures are being implemented to strengthen the effectiveness of the reform,” he said. Inflation, one of Ethiopia’s most pressing economic challenges in recent years — has also shown signs of easing, according to the minister. Ahmed said inflation fell to single digits for the first time in December, reaching 9.7 percent, before declining further to 9.4 percent in March following a prolonged period of price pressures. He attributed the improvement to tighter fiscal and monetary policies, combined with productivity gains. “The main reason for this success is the implementation of strict fiscal and monetary policies, supported by increased productivity under a comprehensive reform framework,” he said. However, lawmakers urged caution and stressed the need to sustain the momentum. Desalegn Wedaje, chairperson of the Planning, Budget and Finance Standing Committee of the HPR, said efforts should continue to strengthen domestic revenue generation, narrow the budget deficit, and maintain inflation controls.   He also described the government’s revenue and expenditure performance over the past nine months as encouraging but called for stronger measures to ensure continued progress. Desalegn further emphasized the need to accelerate debt restructuring efforts and deepen cooperation with development partners to support Ethiopia’s broader economic reform agenda.

Addis Ababa, May 4, 2026 —The Made In Ethiopia national movement is reshaping the nation's economic landscape by strategically resolving deep rooted and widespread structural bottlenecks, according to Office of the Prime Minister (PMO). In its newsletter, the office noted that historic journey, anchored in integrated leadership and policy reforms, has sustained the competitiveness of the manufacturing sector and propelled it toward a new peak of productivity. By projecting raw material supplies from 29 million to 76 million tons averaging 15 million tons annually the movement has established a formidable foundation for an industrial renaissance. This progress is further reinforced by monumental infrastructure investments, including the commissioning of 3.4 GW of electric power for new investments over the past four years and the transfer of over 25,728 hectares of developed land to investors within just nine months of 2018. Financial empowerment has also reached unprecedented levels, with credit for small and medium industries projecting from 8.1 billion to 50 billion ETB (Annual growth of 12 billion ETB), while large scale manufacturers saw financing incremental from 52 billion to 262 billion ETB (Annual growth of 55 Billion ETB).   Supported by macroeconomic reforms, 2.28 billion USD in foreign currency was channeled to major producers, driving 14 percent annual growth in forex access and boosting average capacity utilization from 47 percent to 67 percent. Consequently, the sector’s annual growth rate accelerated from 4.8 percent in 2022 to 10.7 percent in 2025, pushing manufacturing output to 195.4 billion ETB. As evidenced by World Bank data showing an 8.4 percent value added increase and 433.8 million USD in export earnings, Ethiopia is tangibly asserting its industrial sovereignty and anchoring its journey toward shared prosperity on an unshakeable foundation. Manufacturing export earnings rose from 358 million USD in 2014 to 433.8 million USD in 2018, while import substitution saved over 4.85 billion USD in foreign currency during 2018's first nine months. This boosted the local market share from 30 percent to 46 percent. Diplomatic gains like joining BRICS and macroeconomic reforms helped attract over 2,800 investments in four years. Furthermore, the sector flourished by establishing 18,000+ small and medium industries and reviving 993 closed factories. Made in Ethiopia 2026: By raising public awareness and promoting a society that takes pride in domestic products, Made in Ethiopia is actively working to attract new investors, enhance the exchange of knowledge and technology, and expand market linkages for manufacturing industries. The 2026 Made in Ethiopia Expo, which carries large-scale objectives, differs from the previous two editions by hosting a significantly higher number of industries, participants, and events. Regarding international participation, it is a historic occasion that has grown in both volume and diversity compared to last year, with foreign entities heavily integrating and showcasing their latest technologies.

Addis Ababa, 4 May 2026 -- Ethiopian Airlines has received Best Airline in Africa 2026 APEX Passenger Choice Awards, a recognition that reflects the confidence and loyalty of passengers who continue to choose the airline across its global network. The award highlights Ethiopian Airlines’ steady focus on delivering a smooth, comfortable, and dependable travel experience, from the moment passengers book their flights to the time they reach their destinations. Consistently strong service, onboard comfort, and operational reliability have all played a role in meeting the changing expectations of today’s travelers. The APEX Passenger Choice Awards are based on independently verified customer feedback, with results shaped entirely by real passenger experiences. This makes the recognition a genuine vote of confidence from travelers themselves. Ethiopian Airlines’ repeated recognition by APEX reflects its long‑term commitment to service quality and operational excellence. Commenting on the award, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, Group Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines, said: “Receiving this recognition from our passengers makes it truly special. It reflects the dedication and teamwork of our staff across the entire network. Being named Best Airline in Africa motivates us to keep raising our standards and delivering an experience our customers can trust and enjoy.” APEX Group CEO Dr. Joe Leader on his part said: “Ethiopian Airlines earning the 2026 APEX Best Airline in Africa award reflects the voice of verified passengers at scale. With more than one million verified flight ratings collected through TripIt across more than 600 airlines worldwide, APEX recognizes airlines through the most transparent awards methodology in the industry. Ethiopian Airlines continues to demonstrate leadership in African aviation through passenger experience excellence, operational commitment, and a standard of service that resonates with travelers across the continent and beyond.” Looking ahead, Ethiopian Airlines remains focused on the future, with continued investments in modern aircraft, digital innovation, and service improvements across its expanding global network. Guided by a strong vision and a people‑centered approach, the airline continues to strengthen its role as a leader in African aviation while growing its presence on the international stage.

Addis Ababa, May 3, 2026 —The French Ambassador to Ethiopia, Alexis Lamek, has expressed optimism about Ethiopia’s evolving investment ecosystem and its potential to attract more companies from France. He also recalled recent discussions with Ethiopia’s Minister of Finance, Ahmed Shide, describing him as a highly committed partner in advancing economic cooperation and facilitating investment. Speaking to ENA, the Ambassador said there is a “clear window of opportunity” in Ethiopia for global companies, emphasizing the importance of continued efforts to improve the investment environment. Ethiopia has been undertaking a broad set of economic and regulatory reforms aimed at improving its investment climate and attracting greater foreign direct investment. This includes directives that allow foreign participation in trading activities under defined conditions, reflecting a deliberate effort to expand private sector involvement and increase competition in the domestic economy. As a result of these reforms, Ethiopian authorities report increased investor interest and growing inflows of foreign capital, supported by wider macroeconomic liberalization efforts including financial sector reforms and improvements in digital investment services. “I hope this will make progress and that we will see more and more investors,” Ambassador Lamek said. Ambassador Lamek specifically called for stronger French investment presence in Ethiopia. “I want to see more investors from France in this country. I think it is very important,” he said, adding that all economies benefit from attracting foreign direct investment. He noted that investors generally prefer stable, efficient, and predictable environments, stressing the importance of close collaboration between governments and investment platforms to achieve this. The Ambassador also highlighted the importance of informed investment decisions, noting that ongoing dialogues are helping attract more international investors. He pointed out that many investors currently prefer working with Ethiopian Airlines due to its reliability and efficiency. “At this moment, most investors want to work with Ethiopian Airlines because it is a very reliable and efficient partner. But I think there is more space in Ethiopia, and I would like to see investors also in other sectors and with other partners,” he said. Lamek also commended existing partnerships such as the collaboration between MIDROC Ethiopia and Carrefour, describing it as a strong example of effective business cooperation. “MIDROC, for example, is already working very closely with Carrefour, and I really want to commend that. This is also a very serious and solid company. But I want to see more of that. It is very promising for the future of relations between our two countries,” he added. He noted that such investment models reflect a strengthening economic relationship between Addis Ababa and Paris, which he said will help Ethiopia attract more international businesses for mutual benefit. Concluding his remarks, the Ambassador described ongoing engagement as constructive and expressed confidence in its role in strengthening economic ties and supporting long-term development.

Addis Ababa, May 3, 2026 —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced that Ethiopia is on track to generate 10 billion US dollars in export earnings this fiscal year, marking what would be a historic first for the country. Speaking at the opening of the 4th ‘Made in Ethiopia’ Expo, the Prime Minister said the projected revenue reflects a dramatic increase from just three years ago, when the country’s annual export earnings had not exceeded 3 billion USD. PM Abiy attributed the progress to the country’s expanding industrial sector and the success of the Made in Ethiopia movement, noting that manufacturing growth has risen from 4.7 percent to 10.7 percent this year. The Prime Minister said Ethiopia’s economic strategy has focused on expanding exports while reducing reliance on imported goods through domestic production.   According to the Premier, Ethiopia has produced 14.5 billion USD worth of import-substitute goods over the past four years, with plans to double that figure in the coming years. In that regard, the Prime Minister warned that failure to expand domestic production would leave the country vulnerable to mounting debt burdens that could affect future generations. The PM also revealed that 993 previously closed industries have resumed operations, contributing significantly to job creation and trade expansion. He added that since the launch of the national manufacturing drive, Ethiopia has attracted 3,680 new investors into the sector. PM Abiy called on Ethiopian manufacturers to embrace economic patriotism by rejecting contraband trade and corruption while improving competitiveness.   “The time of producing only for the domestic market is over,” he said, urging local manufacturers to expand into broader African markets. The Prime Minister further disclosed that Ethiopia has identified 96 products for import substitution through local manufacturing, including plans for major expansion in the ceramics industry. He also stated that Ethiopia’s economy is currently growing at 10.2 percent, driven by progress in agriculture, mining, manufacturing, tourism, and technology sectors. In a notable development, Prime Minister Abiy said Ethiopia has moved beyond self-sufficiency in defense production and has begun exporting defense products to more than six African countries.   He concluded by emphasizing that Ethiopia’s full economic sovereignty will be achieved once the country begins producing its own industrial machinery for sectors such as defense, textiles, and pharmaceuticals.

Addis Ababa, May 3, 2026 —Ethiopia’s manufacturing sector is playing an increasingly vital role in strengthening the country’s economic sovereignty, Industry Minister Melaku Alebel said at the opening of the 4th ‘Made in Ethiopia’ Expo. Speaking at the event, officially launched by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the minister underscored the government’s commitment to expanding industrial production and reducing dependence on imported goods through stronger domestic manufacturing. The opening ceremony was attended by senior government officials, including House of Federation Speaker, Agegnehu Teshager, President of the Federal Supreme Court, Tewodros Meheret, dem Farah, Vice President of the ruling Prosperity Party (PP) and Head of the Democratic System Building Center, with the rank of Deputy Prime Minister, alongside other high-ranking officials and invited dignitaries.   In his remarks, Melaku said the achievements recorded by Ethiopia’s productive workforce under the government’s reform agenda demonstrate the country’s growing momentum toward prosperity. He described industrial development as a central pillar of the government’s development strategy, noting that a strong manufacturing sector helps safeguard national sovereignty, reduce economic dependency, and preserve national dignity. According to the minister, continued investment in manufacturing will enable Ethiopia to withstand external economic pressures while ensuring sustainable long-term growth. He added that the government has introduced wide-ranging reforms in recent years, including macroeconomic measures, new policy frameworks, and efforts to create a more favorable environment for manufacturers to boost productivity. Melaku also highlighted the establishment of the Manufacturing Industry Council, which he said was created to address challenges facing producers and improve efficiency across the sector. He noted that reforms implemented over recent years have increased production capacity, expanded local substitute products, and strengthened export performance.   The minister said the Made in Ethiopia movement has also played a significant role in raising public awareness about the importance of supporting locally made products. The expo will help strengthen collaboration among manufacturers, encourage experience-sharing, and facilitate research and technology transfer to further enhance the sector’s competitiveness, he further elaborated. Melaku reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing persistent manufacturing challenges, particularly in finance and infrastructure—while also emphasizing the importance of expanding rural industries to sustain the progress achieved over the past four years.

Addis Ababa, May 3, 2026 —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed officially launched the 4th “Made in Ethiopia” Expo today, emphasizing the country’s ongoing efforts to expand and strengthen its manufacturing sector as a central pillar of economic transformation. The Prime Minister underscored that the program has already delivered significant results across key industrial and economic indicators. According to official figures presented at the event, manufacturing input supply has increased from approximately 9 million to over 15 million tons annually.   More than 3.4 GW of electricity has been supplied to new industrial investments, it was noted. Financing for the sector has also surged from 8.1 billion Birr to over 50 billion Birr for SMEs, and to more than 262 billion Birr for large industries. In addition, over 2.28 billion USD in foreign currency has been allocated to the sector. Industrial performance indicators showed further improvement, with production capacity utilization rising from 47% to 67%, while manufacturing growth increased from 4.8% to 10.7%, with additional expansion expected. Import substitution efforts have generated savings of up to 4.85 billion US dollars, while export performance continues to strengthen.   The government also reported that more than 2,800 investments have been attracted, creating approximately 1.4 million jobs. The “Made in Ethiopia” Expo has grown into a key national platform that connects industries, attracts investment, and showcases domestic innovation. This year’s edition features hundreds of exhibitors and draws tens of thousands of visitors.   Officials say the launch reflects Ethiopia’s accelerating industrial transformation, with manufacturing increasingly positioned at the center of economic growth, job creation, and global competitiveness.

Addis Ababa, May 3, 2026 —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has highlighted Ethiopia’s major industrial achievements over the past four years, describing them as clear evidence of the country’s commitment to economic transformation and self-reliance. Speaking at this year’s “Made in Ethiopia” Expo, the Prime Minister said it was a proud moment to witness the tangible realization of Ethiopia’s national vision through remarkable industrial growth and investment success. “Our results-driven governance is producing measurable outcomes,” Prime Minister Abiy said, pointing to key milestones achieved under the government’s industrial development agenda.   According to the Prime Minister, average industrial production capacity utilization has risen significantly from 47 percent to 67 percent. He also noted that Ethiopia has attracted more than 2,800 domestic and foreign direct investments over the past four years, according to remarks shared on his social media platforms. In addition, the country has saved more than 4.85 billion US dollars in foreign exchange through import substitution during the first nine months of the 2018 Ethiopian fiscal year, he said. The Prime Minister noted that the “Made in Ethiopia” Expo has brought together hundreds of emerging enterprises, manufacturers, and innovative startups from across the country, showcasing Ethiopia’s growing industrial potential.   He stressed that continued collaboration among the government, investors, and businesses will be essential to sustaining momentum and accelerating national development. “By working together and sustaining this momentum, we will build a resilient, industrialized, and self-reliant Ethiopia for generations to come,” he said.   Closing his remarks on a patriotic note, Prime Minister Abiy reaffirmed confidence in Ethiopia’s future. “We were great, and we shall be even greater,” the Prime Minister underscored.

Addis Ababa, May 3, 2026 —Ethiopia is positioning itself as one of Africa’s leading renewable energy hubs, Office of the Prime Minister (PMO) said, highlighting the country’s expanding solar energy sector and growing industrial investment. In social media post, the PMO said Ethiopia’s renewable energy momentum is being fueled by rapid solar power expansion, with several new industrial players expected to significantly boost the nation’s energy capacity. The government noted that Ethiopia’s year-round sunshine, often described locally as “thirteen months of sunshine” — offers strong potential for solar energy development. According to the PMO, new investments are projected to contribute an estimated 13.3 gigawatts of solar energy annually. Among the major projects cited were Origin Solar Factory, Toyo Solar Phase 2 Factory, Lumintech Solar Factory, and Gobeze Solar Cell, which are expected to play a key role in expanding Ethiopia’s renewable energy production. The announcement reflects Ethiopia’s broader push to strengthen its clean energy sector and position itself as a regional leader in sustainable power development, it was learned.

Addis Ababa, May 3, 2026 —Although Africa has the resources, population, and market potential to become one of the world’s most competitive economic blocs, the continent must first recognize and fully utilize its strengths, according to Elizabeth E. Onwuchekwa, Director-General of the Pan-African AU Agenda 2063 Diplomatic Mission. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Onwuchekwa, said Africa continues to underperform because it has not effectively leveraged its natural wealth, human capital, and internal markets for development and economic transformation. Africa is now the second most populous region globally and the fastest-growing major population center in the world, with an estimated 1.58 billion people in 2026. According to Onwuchekwa, Africa’s development challenge is not a lack of opportunity, but the failure to intentionally organize and deploy its vast resources to build the continent envisioned under the African Union’s Agenda 2063. The growing population in the continent should be seen not as a burden, but as a strategic asset that can drive industrialization, trade, innovation, and long-term prosperity if properly harnessed, she insisted. “What we are doing here (at the Twelfth Session of the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development) is the beginning of it—coming together as one continent to identify and discuss the challenges and the resources at our disposal....Then we go back and begin to implement.” She stressed that African countries must be deliberate in translating policy commitments into practical action, particularly in trade, regional integration, and economic cooperation. The Director-General noted that one of the continent’s biggest untapped strengths is its internal market. Despite being home to one of the world’s fastest-growing consumer populations, trade among African countries remains limited and often more difficult than commerce with external markets, she added. “Trading among African countries is actually harder than it is to trade with the Western world,” Onwuchekwa pointed out, stating that “it seems easier to buy things from China, from the U.S., from the U.K., than it is to buy things from among African countries.” Connecting these markets more efficiently through trade and logistics is critical to unlocking Africa’s economic potential, she said. To help address this, the Director-General revealed that the Pan-African AU Agenda 2063 Diplomatic Mission has developed a digital trade platform aimed at simplifying intra-African commerce and improving market access across borders. Thee platform, known as the Pan-African Continental Supermarket Place (PAC-SM), is designed to make trade in goods and services more seamless by allowing businesses across Africa to identify suppliers, make purchases, and exchange products more easily, she elaborated. “One of the things we have put in place is to make sure that everyone within the African continent can find whoever can sell whatever they want easily and buy whatever they need from other African countries easily.” According to Onwuchekwa, the platform, which is already in place, is being refined to support smoother transactions, easier trade flows, and stronger commercial linkages among African economies. Women and youth must be central to Africa’s transformation, the Director-General emphasized, as the continent seeks to convert its demographic growth into long-term economic gains. Recall that Africa is the youngest continent in the world and is projected to become one of the largest future sources of labor, consumption, and economic expansion globally. Onwuchekwa said women and youth are already stepping forward across the continent, but broader participation will be essential to building a more resilient and self-sustaining Africa. “More youth, more women need to come into the solution table to be part of what is already going on in building the Africa that we want.”