Addis Ababa, October 30, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia has taken a significant step toward sustainable energy use and economic self-reliance with the launch of natural gas-powered public transport buses in Addis Ababa, inaugurated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today. The initial rollout of 26 converted city buses marks a strategic shift toward harnessing domestically produced natural gas as a cleaner and more affordable alternative to imported petroleum. The initiative is expected to reduce public transport operating costs, ease the country's dependence on imported fuel, and curb urban carbon emissions while creating new opportunities for the wider use of locally produced energy. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Abiy highlighted the extensive coordination and infrastructure development required to transform Ethiopia's domestic natural gas resources into a practical energy source for public transportation. He said the initiative builds on the initial phase of natural gas production in Gode, Somali Region. “The gas we produced there is not like liquid fuel. Because it is in gaseous form, extracting it from the well, transporting it, and delivering it to users requires significant additional work,” PM Abiy said. He explained that, unlike conventional liquid fuels, natural gas requires specialized infrastructure for storage, transportation, and distribution. “For that reason, dedicated storage facilities and specialized stations like this are necessary. A standard fuel station will not work for gas because their physical characteristics are entirely different,” he said. The conversion initiative builds on existing public transport infrastructure, drawing on domestic technical expertise to retrofit former diesel-powered Anbessa buses to operate on natural gas. “These buses you see are former Addis Ababa Anbessa buses that were previously fueled by diesel. By bringing them in, completely modifying them, adjusting their interiors, and adapting them for natural gas, considering we are beginners in this, we have successfully converted around 256 buses over the past few months,” the Prime Minister noted. Alongside the retrofitting programme, the government is expanding the city's fleet through the procurement of new gas-powered buses to accelerate the transition. “If we proceeded only by retrofitting, it would take too long. Therefore, we have ordered around 400 new gas buses, which will arrive within the next three months,” he announced. “When those 400 arrive, gas-powered vehicles will make up at least 30 percent of the current Anbessa bus fleet in Addis Ababa. Once we reach that benchmark in three to four months, we will scale up further to completely convert all fuel-using city buses in Addis Ababa to natural gas within a few years.” The transition to locally produced natural gas is also expected to lower public transport fares, ease the financial burden on urban households, and reduce Ethiopia's expenditure on imported petroleum. “Under current realistic conditions, [transport costs] drop by a minimum of 50 percent,” Prime Minister Abiy explained. “If you pay one Birr on this bus, you would have paid two Birr on the previous one.” Identifying transportation, housing, and food as major financial pressures facing low-income citizens, he said reducing costs in these areas remains central to improving living standards. “For low-income people, transportation and housing are the main burdens in Ethiopia,” he noted. “If we reduce transport costs, provide housing through our initiatives, and maintain our efforts on food security, we address the three issues that concern people most. Resolving these gives citizens the opportunity to live better lives.” “Our primary desire is to produce enough food to feed ourselves. When transport is imported, it comes with a lot of hassle,” PM Abiy stated, highlighting the importance of strengthening domestic production and industrial capacity. “We have ordered nearly 100 gas trucks, arriving in two to three months,” he added. He said lower transportation costs from factories to construction sites, combined with reduced manufacturing expenses, would generate broader economic benefits, particularly in housing construction, agricultural produce distribution, and urban economic activities. The next phases of the strategy will extend natural gas utilization to fertilizer production, electricity generation, and other commercial applications. “Gas extraction is an exciting beginning, but it must expand,” he said. “If taxis convert their cylinders and switch to gas, fares will decrease. In the next phase, gas will serve as an input for fertilizer and electricity generation.” He cited the Mojo and Debre Berhan ceramics manufacturing factories, which together meet more than 100 percent of national demand and have been converted to natural gas. “We will no longer import fuel for them. Because they utilize local energy and labor, ceramics will be delivered to the public at an affordable price,” he said. To facilitate the wider distribution of natural gas and support industrial operations, the government has also ordered additional transportation infrastructure. “We have ordered nearly 100 gas trucks, arriving in two to three months,” he added. He said lower transportation costs from factories to construction sites, combined with reduced manufacturing expenses, would generate broader economic benefits, particularly in housing construction, agricultural produce distribution, and urban economic activities. The next phases of the strategy will extend natural gas utilization to fertilizer production, electricity generation, and other commercial applications. Acknowledging the technical and financial challenges involved in developing the sector, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the government's commitment to addressing existing limitations through sustained investment, knowledge development, and national collaboration. “This work is complex. Beyond financial constraints, there are knowledge limitations, but we will address them diligently,” he remarked, adding that “very commendable results are being seen.” “The coming times for Ethiopia and our children are very promising and bright,” he said. “There is no result achieved without effort, work, and diligence. When we join forces, immense energy, capacity, knowledge, and wealth are gathered. Applied to nation-building, Ethiopia will flourish and achieve its aspirations through a united effort.”

Addis Ababa, October 30, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia’s strides in natural resource conservation and watershed development are significantly fostering regional growth and mutual benefit, according to the Ministry of Water and Energy. Success achieved in natural resource conservation is playing a pivotal role in regional shared benefit: Ministry of Water and Energy Ethiopia’s strides in natural resource conservation and watershed development are significantly fostering regional growth and mutual benefit, according to the Ministry of Water and Energy. The 3rd Ethiopian Water and Energy Week continues under the theme “Advancing Science-Based Policy and Partnerships for a Water and Energy Secure Future.” Speaking on the occasion, Michael Mehari, advisor to the Minister of Water and Energy, highlighted that developing water resources through integrated management is key to simultaneously safeguarding water, food, and energy security. He emphasized the necessity of expanding multipurpose water storage and infrastructure to harmoniously elevate both irrigation development and power generation. Noting that Ethiopia contributes over 86 percent of the water entering the Nile Basin system, he explained that prudently developing and protecting its water resources is essential not only for national progress but also for the shared prospering of all basin nations. Reflecting on Ethiopia’s extensive endeavors in soil and water conservation, watershed management, and environmental protection, he underscored that safeguarding upper basin ecosystems remains vital for domestic advancement and for downstream nations' mutual advantage. Accordingly, he pointed out the imperative to reinforce cross-border river governance through collaboration grounded in equity and equitable utilization. He further noted that policy formulation and development choices within the water and energy domains must firmly anchor themselves on scientific research and empirical evidence. He added that scaling up investment while building the capacity of domestic contractors and the private sector is vital for progress. Observing that viewing the water-energy-food-ecosystem nexus in unison is crucial for sustainable development, he stressed that these sectors transcend technical dialogues, it is interlinked with national survival, prosperity, and sovereignty. He concluded by noting that deliberations during Water and Energy Week have centered around green energy, power access, eco-friendly and health-conscious cooking options, integrated water resources management, sanitation, and digital innovation.

Addis Ababa, October 29, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia’s green development initiatives provide a practical lesson for African countries seeking to reduce emissions and advance climate action, UN-Habitat Regional Office for Africa Director Oumar Sylla said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Sylla commended Ethiopia’s efforts to curb emissions through clean cooking, cleaner energy for vehicles, green corridors and large-scale tree planting, urging other African countries to learn from the experience and replicate the initiatives. Emphasizing the significance of leadership, he said “we can only commend the leadership of Ethiopia on those measures to curb emissions in the country, from clean cooking to cleaner energy for vehicles, all those green corridor as well with the goal of planting millions of trees in Ethiopia”. The Director also stressed the need for African mayors and ministers of urban development to replicate Ethiopia’s experience across the continent. Ethiopia has planted over 56 billion tree seedlings since the launching of the Green Legacy Initiative in 2019. Commenting on the hosting of the 2027 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP) in Ethiopia, he said the event is an important opportunity for Africa to strengthen its voice in global climate negotiations, promote green investment, and demonstrate progress in addressing climate change. “We are all excited seeing Ethiopia hosting one of the most critical and most important COP in the human story.” Sylla noted that the conference comes at a critical time and African countries could use the platform to highlight their climate initiatives, exchange experiences with other nations and strengthen cooperation in advancing the goals of the Paris Agreement. He underscored the importance of addressing climate change in Africa’s rapidly urbanizing cities, noting that the continent faces growing needs for climate adaptation, mitigation and urban resilience. According to him, African cities require stronger measures to withstand the impacts of climate change. The UN-Habitat official emphasized that African countries and cities should strengthen solidarity, share knowledge and develop a common agenda that could be reflected in COP32’s Action Agenda. Coordinated action among African countries would help advance urban climate solutions and enable cities to learn from one another’s experiences, he added. Sylla further noted that UN-Habitat remains committed to supporting the Ethiopian government in ensuring the success of COP32. He said the organization has been engaging with the COP presidencies and working with the Addis Ababa city administration to incorporate urban development priorities into the conference preparations. He also highlighted Ethiopia’s urban regeneration and greening initiatives as opportunities to demonstrate how cities can contribute to climate action and sustainable urban transformation. Sylla called on African cities, mayors and housing and urban development ministers to examine Ethiopia’s experience and consider adapting relevant initiatives to their own national and local contexts. He said COP32 could help advance a stronger African voice in international climate discussions while promoting practical cooperation on emissions reduction, climate resilience and sustainable urban development. “This COP happening in Africa, in Ethiopia, is a real opportunity for Africa to be more vocal, but also at the same time to build the solidarity we need.”

Addis Ababa, October 19, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia’s renewable energy potential presents opportunities to strengthen African cooperation in agricultural productivity, cross-border electricity trade, investment and clean transport, according to Ugandan and Nigerian renewable energy representatives. Paddy Bakengana, Senior Programs Associate at the Uganda Solar Energy Association, told ENA that Ethiopia and Uganda could expand the use of renewable energy technologies in agriculture to boost production, improve efficiency and reduce post-harvest losses.   “By the use of renewable energy, by the use of the solar water pumps, the solar dryers, we can actually increase our production,” he said. Bakengana further highlighted the potential of solar-powered irrigation and drying technologies to support agricultural development, noting that cooperation between the two countries could help farmers adopt practical and affordable renewable energy solutions. He also pointed to Ethiopia’s hydropower and solar resources, saying increased electricity generation could create further opportunities for regional power trade. According to Bakengana, partnerships between renewable energy associations in Ethiopia and Uganda could facilitate technical training, knowledge exchange and joint policy advocacy to accelerate the adoption of clean energy technologies.   He further stressed the importance of improving access to financing to enable businesses to invest in renewable energy solutions for agriculture in both countries. Meanwhile, Motunrayo Akinfala, Chief Executive Officer of the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN), identified electric mobility as another promising area for cooperation among Ethiopia, Nigeria and other African countries. She called for stronger partnerships to facilitate the exchange of expertise, attract investment and expand the deployment of clean energy technologies across the continent. “What I would advise, suggest, is more collaboration between both countries, and even across African countries as a whole,” she said. Akinfala also underscored the need to attract investors and development partners to support Ethiopia’s renewable energy development and help expand access to clean energy solutions. The experiences shared by the Ugandan and Nigerian representatives highlight the potential for African countries to combine their technical expertise, investment capacity and renewable energy resources to support agricultural transformation, expand electricity markets and accelerate the transition to cleaner transport systems.

Addis Ababa, October 13, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 74.3 percent by 2030, compared with the business-as-usual scenario, Minister of Water and Energy Habtamu Itefa said, highlighting the country’s climate action efforts despite mounting environmental challenges. Speaking at the 65th session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which opened in Addis Ababa on October 12, the minister said Ethiopia was pursuing the ambitious target through renewable energy expansion, large-scale tree planting and the restoration of degraded landscapes. “Throughout national and international contribution, Ethiopia has committed to highly ambitious 74.3 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, relative to the business-as-usual scenario,” Habtamu said. Ethiopia was already experiencing the severe consequences of climate change, including erratic rainfall, recurrent droughts and devastating floods , he elaborated. “Ethiopia is living in the front lines of the global climate crisis,” the minister elaborated, noting that anthropogenic climate change had seriously disrupted the country’s natural balance. The shifting rainfall patterns and increasingly frequent extreme weather events were affecting agriculture, water availability and energy production, he stated. “Recurrent droughts lead to tragic crop failures and the loss of livestock,” he added. However, he stressed that Ethiopia was taking concrete measures to address the crisis rather than merely bearing its consequences. According to him, the government had made the Climate-Resilient Green Economy strategy a cornerstone of national policy and was expanding renewable energy production through hydropower, wind and solar power. Ethiopia is also extending its clean electricity grid to neighboring countries to support Africa’s energy transition. The minister also highlighted the Green Legacy Initiative, which he said had contributed to expanding forest cover and restoring degraded landscapes. “I am incredibly proud to share that to date, we have planted more than 56 billion trees across the country,” he said. He added that Ethiopia’s forest cover had increased from 17.2 percent to 23.6 percent. “This is not just about planting trees, it is about restoring degraded water bodies, improving soil fertility, and raising better life.” He emphasized that Ethiopia’s climate ambitions were grounded in scientific evidence, pointing to the country’s engagement with the IPCC and the use of its methodologies in preparing national greenhouse gas inventories. He said the findings of the IPCC should inform national development strategies and strengthen climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. IPCC Chair Jim Skea praised the Ethiopian government and the city of Addis Ababa, stating that they have done a tremendous job preparing for this important meeting, and expressed gratitude for their kind welcome and hospitality. Ethiopia has strongly supported the IPCC's scientific work, and Jim Skea underlined that he is proud to see Ethiopian scientists engaged in all three working group contributions to the second assessment report. The Director General of the Ethiopian Meteorological Institute (EMI), Fetene Teshome, said that African countries contribute the least to global greenhouse gas emissions, yet the region remains among the most vulnerable to climate variability and climate change. This reality highlights the urgent need for stronger adaptation, improved resilience, and greater access to climate services that support informed decision-making at all levels, he stressed. Therefore, Fetene said, in this regard, the work of the IPCC is indispensable. The scientific assessments prepared by the IPCC provide the foundation upon which governments, development partners, researchers, and communities can understand climate risks and identify effective responses. The credibility, transparency, and rigor of the IPCC process continue to guide global climate action and inspire confidence in climate science.

Addis Ababa, October 10, 2026 (ENA)—The Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission announced that it is delivering humanitarian aid to people requiring assistance in the Afar Region due to the impacts of climate change. The commission further stated that emergency humanitarian aid is currently being transported to the Afar Region from the central grain warehouse in Adama.   While regional states are working hard to respond to natural and man-made disasters using their own resources, the commission is also providing additional humanitarian aid to priority areas, it said. Accordingly, the commission disclosed that it is delivering humanitarian aid to those requiring top-priority assistance in the Afar Region. While the Afar Regional State continues providing assistance and monitoring efforts within its capacity, the commission is also providing close support and oversight.   Vehicles loaded with humanitarian aid from the Adama reserve warehouse have departed for the Afar Region, it was learned.

Addis Ababa, October 7, 2026 (ENA)— United Nations (UN) and African forestry experts have praised Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative (GLI) as a leading model of large-scale environmental restoration in Africa. The experts also emphasized that its science-based policies and agroforestry are essential to sustaining its gains and improving community livelihoods. Juliette Biao, Director of the Secretariat of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF), described the Green Legacy Initiative as a highly ambitious undertaking and emphasized the importance of drawing lessons from past experiences to ensure its long-term success. “The Green Legacy Initiative (GLI) is a good ambition, but what we cannot afford is to repeat the mistakes of the past. If we can learn lessons from the past, I think that will be wonderful not only for Ethiopia, but for the world,” Biao said. Biao recalled her earlier involvement in the initiative, noting that she was Regional Director for Africa at the United Nations Environment Programme when Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed launched the Green Legacy Initiative in 2019. “As a matter of fact, I was the Regional Director for Africa at the United Nations Environment Programme when Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed launched the initiative in 2019, and we provided our support,” she said. She also highlighted Africa’s efforts to strengthen the link between scientific knowledge and policymaking, particularly through its hosting of the first Science Policy Information Network (SPIN) for Africa regional dialogue on forestry. “What will be really recommendable is to take the outcomes of SPIN Africa and customize them to the Ethiopian context,” She said. Biao stressed that tree planting should form part of a broader land restoration strategy, cautioning that planting trees alone would not be sufficient to reverse land degradation. “I am sure that the GLI will succeed. However, what we must learn from the past is that simply planting trees for the sake of planting trees can never reverse land degradation,” she said. She recommended greater use of agroforestry, which can combine environmental restoration with economic opportunities for rural communities. Such an approach, she said, can enable communities to benefit from restored landscapes while contributing to forest conservation and land rehabilitation. Ethiopia’s GLI has increasingly incorporated economically valuable crops and trees, including avocado, mango, apple and papaya, alongside coffee and other agricultural activities. This approach has strengthened the connection between environmental restoration, food production and household incomes. Doris Mutta, a forest scientist and Senior Program Officer at the African Forest Forum (AFF), similarly described Ethiopia’s GLI as one of Africa’s prominent examples of large-scale environmental restoration. “We noted that a lot of mobilization has been done to generate seedlings and to plant millions of seedlings. There has been a clear improvement in forest cover because of this initiative, which is very positive,” Mutta said. She said Ethiopia’s experience could offer valuable lessons to other African countries pursuing ambitious programs to restore degraded landscapes, expand forest cover and strengthen climate resilience. “For Africa, the Green Legacy Initiative is one of the flagship projects that we are monitoring very closely through the SPIN for Africa,” she said. The first SPIN Africa Regional Science Policy Dialogue on forestry, hosted by Ethiopia, brought together policymakers, scientists and forestry experts to strengthen the integration of scientific evidence into forest management and restoration policies. The experts’ assessment underscores the growing significance of Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative beyond its national environmental objectives. With continued emphasis on science-based restoration, agroforestry and community participation, the initiative could provide practical lessons for African countries seeking to advance forest restoration while strengthening food production, livelihoods and climate resilience. Over the past eight years of planting campaigns, communities, institutions and technical experts have planted 56 billion trees and agroforestry seedlings across different ecological zones.  

Addis Ababa, October 5, 2026 (ENA)— The first Science Policy Information Network (SPIN) Africa Regional Science-Policy Dialogue on forestry, held in Addis Ababa, enables to establish clear, frictionless communication channels between policymakers and the scientific community. The dialogue was jointly organized with the International Union of Forest Research Organizations (IUFRO) and Science Policy Information Network (SPIN) Africa. The dialogue brought together representatives from seven different African countries. The event marked the first in person discussion forum of the SPIN Africa network in Addis Ababa. Established in 2024 during a workshop in Sweden, the network had previously conducted its activities mainly through virtual meetings. The dialogue seeks to make forestry research across Africa more connected, accessible and responsive to policy needs, while strengthening collaboration among forestry research institutions across different regions of the continent. IUFRO President Professor Daniela Kleinschmit said the dialogue provides an opportunity for scientists and policymakers to better understand each other's needs and expectations. “We aim to discuss between science and policy to better understand each other, to better understand the needs and demands of policies for sciences, and to tell as well what science can offer and what kind of research results we have,” she said. Kleinschmit also emphasized the importance of stronger regional partnerships among scientific institutions. “We need to partner up a bit better in the future; if we partner up in a region as well, it becomes much easier,” she said, noting that bringing together scientific institutions from across a region can help generate common knowledge and shared solutions rather than relying on individual countries or institutions. She added that policymakers in different African countries often face similar challenges and have common development objectives, making regional scientific cooperation particularly important. Wubalem Tadesse, SPIN Africa Core Group Chair, said the network serves as a bridge between forestry researchers and policymakers by helping translate research findings into information that can support policy decisions. He said the network also enables researchers to identify practical challenges facing different countries and conduct research that responds directly to those needs. The initiative aims to connect forestry research across regions, improve access to scientific knowledge and build a stronger continent-wide network of forestry research activities. Damene Darota, Deputy Director General of Ethiopian Forestry Development (EFD), said Ethiopia has established an institutional framework intended to narrow the longstanding gap between scientific research and practical implementation. “Ethiopian Forestry Development was established with a specialized structural framework designed to bridge the historic divide between scientific research and operational execution,” Darota said. He explained that research priorities within EFD are directly linked to practical challenges identified in the field. “Within EFD, scientific research agendas are directly generated from practical development needs encountered in the field. Research questions are not defined in isolation; they are dictated by live challenges in landscape restoration, tree propagation, disease resistance, value chain development, and community based management,” he said. Darota said Ethiopia's experience could provide a practical example of how stronger links between science, policy and implementation can support environmental restoration. “We hope that this institutional synergy provides a practical model for how science policy interfaces can function smoothly within national public administrations,” he said. He noted that Ethiopia's efforts in evidence-based landscape restoration are reflected in national environmental indicators and restoration activities. Ethiopia has historically faced significant challenges from land degradation, deforestation and climate variability. Over the past decade, the country has sought to strengthen natural resource governance through nationwide environmental initiatives, including the Green Legacy Initiative launched in 2019. According to the figures presented at the dialogue, Ethiopia's forest cover has increased to 23.6 percent, covering more than 26 million hectares. Over the past eight years of planting campaigns, communities, institutions and technical experts have planted 56 billion trees and agroforestry seedlings across different ecological zones, according to EFD. “These achievements demonstrate that when political leadership, institutional integration, scientific backing, and community ownership align, a lot can be done in environmental recovery,” Darota said. Juliette Biao, Secretariat Director of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF), underscored the importance of strengthening communication between scientists and policymakers, particularly in translating scientific knowledge into effective forest landscape restoration. She said scientists and policymakers have historically faced difficulties in communicating in ways that enable research findings to be effectively translated into successful forest restoration projects. According to Biao, the SPIN Africa dialogue provides an important platform for addressing this gap by fostering collaboration between researchers and policymakers and strengthening the connection between scientific evidence and practical policy implementation. “What we really want to see going forward: first, we expect to establish clear and frictionless communication channels between policymakers and the scientific community,” Biao said. The organizers said the dialogue is expected to contribute to a stronger Africa wide science policy network capable of supporting evidence-based forestry policies, regional cooperation and sustainable management of the continent's forest resources.

Addis Ababa, September 22, 2026 (ENA) — The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has commended Ethiopia’s environmental restoration efforts, noting that the country’s experience offers valuable lessons for other member states seeking to strengthen environmental resilience and sustain community livelihoods. IGAD Deputy Executive Secretary Mohamed Abdi Ware highlighted watershed protection, tree planting, land restoration, and water harvesting among Ethiopia’s key environmental initiatives that could help address climate-related challenges across the region. Speaking to ENA on the sidelines of the IGAD Regional High-Level Forum on El Niño Preparedness for the Horn of Africa, held in Addis Ababa from September 15 to 17, 2026, Ware described Ethiopia’s environmental restoration efforts as very encouraging. “These things that Ethiopia has shown to be a leader really contribute not only to preventing problems in the short term, but will contribute to the long-term health of our environment,” Ware said. He said restoring degraded land, protecting watersheds, planting trees and harvesting water can improve communities’ access to clean water and productive land while reducing the risks of landslides and other environmental hazards, particularly in hilly and mountainous areas. According to Ware, such measures can also help reduce environmentally driven migration and displacement by strengthening communities’ resilience to climate related pressures. He further emphasized that environmental restoration has benefits that extend beyond ecological protection, noting that healthy ecosystems can support sustainable livelihoods and improve the economic wellbeing of communities. Ware said IGAD’s mandate includes facilitating the exchange of knowledge and experiences among member states, enabling countries to learn from successful initiatives implemented elsewhere in the region. In this regard, he identified Ethiopia’s environmental experience as an example that other IGAD member states could study and adapt to their own circumstances. He also noted that Kenya is undertaking significant environmental restoration initiatives. He said expanding such efforts across the region could strengthen environmental resilience while supporting sustainable livelihoods and reducing communities’ vulnerability to climate related shocks. Ware’s remarks came as the IGAD Regional High-Level Forum on El Niño Preparedness for the Horn of Africa brought together member states and stakeholders to strengthen regional preparedness and anticipatory action against climate related risks.

Addis Ababa, September 21, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia’s vast renewable energy resources and rapid shift toward electric mobility are drawing growing interest from Nordic investors and technology companies, according to industry stakeholders. The remark was made on the sidelines of the Nordic Africa EV Summit, held in Ethiopia from September 14 to 16, which brought together regional and international stakeholders to discuss electric mobility, charging infrastructure, and investment opportunities. Hosaena A. Samuel, CEO and co-founder of Easy Power, a Norwegian firm and Ethiopia’s first private electric vehicle charging operator, noted that Nordic investors are particularly focused on the country’s accelerating EV adoption and high potential for clean energy. According to Hosaena, more than 20 Nordic financiers engaged with Ethiopian officials and industry leaders during the summit to explore potential investments in grid reliability and EV charging infrastructure. The interest also extends to Nordic technology and technical expertise, which could help build resilient charging networks. She noted that Nordic partners were particularly impressed by Ethiopia’s bold policy decision to phase out internal combustion engine vehicles in favor of electric mobility, backed by its rich renewable resources. Nordic countries have extensive experience in developing EV charging infrastructure and reliable electricity systems, Hosaena said, adding that this expertise could offer valuable lessons as Ethiopia expands its national charging grid. She highlighted the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and major wind power projects as key drivers drawing Nordic attention. Beyond infrastructure, she emphasized that Ethiopia’s expanding EV market opens strong avenues for technology transfer and bilateral investment. Echoing this sentiment, Kumeel Alsmail, Nokia’s Head of Industrial Solutions for the Middle East and Africa, noted that Africa’s growing EV ecosystem will unlock further opportunities for digital and technological cooperation between African nations and Nordic firms. Speaking to ENA on the sidelines of the event, Alsmail emphasized that reliable connectivity will be critical to powering EV charging networks, especially as nations work toward regional electric mobility corridors. He highlighted prospective corridors connecting Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Kenya, noting that these routes could support both passenger vehicles and electric heavy-duty transport. Alsmail stated that Nokia sees strong opportunities to supply digital connectivity solutions for charging networks, while stressing that Ethiopia’s growing renewable generation capacity must be paired with robust transmission and distribution systems. The summit highlighted the vital intersection of renewable energy, electric mobility, digital connectivity, and infrastructure, with participants agreeing that cross-border technology partnerships and private investment will be essential to driving Africa’s clean energy transition.

Addis Ababa, September 21, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia’s President Taye Atske Selassie called for a fundamental shift in the global renewable-energy agenda—from simply expanding power generation to building the grids, storage, financing and productive systems needed to turn clean electricity into economic transformation. Addressing the “Delivering Electrify Now” High-Level Leaders Dialogue of the Global Renewables Summit in New York, President Taye said countries endowed with abundant renewable resources need stronger international support to convert their energy potential into reliable electricity access, industrial growth and inclusive prosperity. “Generation without grids, storage and robust utility capacity cannot drive economic transformation,” the President said, stressing that international financing must support the entire electricity value chain—from generation and transmission to distribution, storage and last-mile connections. The Global Renewables Summit, held during Climate Week NYC alongside the UN General Assembly, is bringing together political leaders, businesses, investors and international institutions to accelerate renewable-powered electrification and address the infrastructure and investment barriers slowing the energy transition.   President Taye said Ethiopia brings substantial renewable-energy potential to the global discussion, with more than 95 percent of its installed generation capacity coming from renewable sources. He highlighted the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and other renewable-energy investments as key foundations for expanding electricity access and powering the country’s industrialization. He outlined three interconnected priorities for Ethiopia: expanding and diversifying renewable generation, with installed capacity targeted to reach up to 14,000 MW by 2030 and non-hydro renewables accounting for at least 15 percent; using clean and affordable electricity to strengthen industrial competitiveness, including through industrial parks; and pursuing macroeconomic and energy-sector reforms to attract greater private investment, including increased private-sector participation in transmission and distribution. But the President emphasized that finance remains the critical link between renewable-energy potential and actual development. He called for more bankable projects supported by public resources and international partners, including the World Bank, African Development Bank and the European Union through Global Gateway. Particular attention, he said, should go to transmission infrastructure, substations, grid reinforcement, reconductoring and last-mile connections.   President Taye cited Ethiopia’s experience financing the GERD through domestic resources and broad public mobilization as an example of the importance of national ownership and commitment. At the same time, he stressed that international financial cooperation remains essential for developing countries seeking to build modern, reliable and interconnected electricity systems. He expressed appreciation for international support to Ethiopia’s power sector, including the European Union’s RISED programme, as well as assistance from the World Bank and African Development Bank in modernizing, rehabilitating and digitalizing electricity infrastructure. The President also warned that the global energy transition cannot deliver its full promise if renewable investment remains concentrated in a limited number of wealthy regions. For developing countries, he said, the ambition must go beyond generating renewable power: from energy potential to electricity access, from access to productive use, and from productive use to industrialization and job creation.   As Ethiopia prepares to host COP32 in Addis Ababa in 2027, President Taye said the country will work to help ensure that global climate and renewable-energy commitments translate into concrete implementation across Africa. His message comes as the international renewable-energy agenda increasingly focuses not only on expanding generation but also on scaling grids, storage and electrification to make clean power usable across economies.

Addis Ababa, September 19, 2026 (ENA) — With forecasts pointing to an El Niño event in December, IGAD says the priority has shifted from prediction to preparedness. El Niño is a climate phenomenon associated with unusual warming of Pacific Ocean waters. Speaking to ENA on the sidelines of the IGAD Regional High-Level Forum on El Niño Preparedness for the Horn of Africa, held in Addis Ababa from September 15 to 17, 2026, IGAD Deputy Executive Secretary Mohamed Abdi Ware stressed the need for urgent action based on scientific forecasts. “We are saying it's not a question of if, it's a question of ‘what do we do now?’” he said, underscoring the importance of timely preparedness. He also expressed confidence in the accuracy of climate information provided by the IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC), noting that the previous May forecast was “almost exactly as predicted.” That confidence, he said, should encourage governments and other stakeholders to act early rather than wait for the impacts to unfold. The consequences, he noted, extend far beyond climate statistics, affecting people, livelihoods and communities across the region. Possible impacts include reduced grazing access for pastoral communities, livestock diseases, crops rotting in fields before harvest, damaged infrastructure and isolated communities. “These are not just figures. These are real people and real communities that will be impacted by this phenomenon,” he said. Presentations from IGAD member states showed that countries are already taking steps to prepare for the anticipated impacts, he said, adding that each state must tailor its measures to the specific risks it faces. ICPAC’s regional climate outlook has forecast wetter-than-normal conditions across much of the Greater Horn of Africa during the October–December 2026 season, with excessive rainfall expected to heighten the risk of flooding, crop losses and damage to critical infrastructure. The response will require financing to ensure that preparedness measures are implemented before the impacts materialize. “These activities will need financing,” he said, calling on development partners and finance ministries in IGAD member states to work with national disaster risk management agencies to mobilize local resources. Such resources would help countries take timely measures to protect vulnerable communities, he added. “After all, it is our people that will be impacted,” he said. Beyond preparedness, IGAD will continue facilitating knowledge and experience sharing among member states to strengthen climate-risk responses. Countries with effective response measures can offer lessons for others in the region and help scale up successful approaches, he said. Coordinated action among member states is essential, he added, because the anticipated impacts will affect countries and communities differently. Reliable scientific forecasts, he said, give the region an opportunity to move from reacting after disasters strike to taking timely action based on early warning. The immediate priority is to translate scientific information into practical preparedness measures capable of protecting people, livelihoods and communities from the anticipated El Niño impacts.

Addis Ababa, September 19, 2026 (ENA) —Foreign forestry researchers have praised Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative as an outstanding example of environmental conservation, citing its wide-ranging contribution to climate action and food security. It was learned that Ethiopia has planted a total of 56.2 billion seedlings, further strengthening the country’s leadership in efforts to restore and protect natural resources. According to the foreign researchers interviewed by ENA, the initiative is not only helping Ethiopia lay the groundwork for greater resilience in food production and long-term sustainability, but is also addressing the impacts of global climate change. Dutch researcher Albert Schenk described the initiative as a practical demonstration of Ethiopia’s contribution to the fight against climate change. He said Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative is an impressive model for development and urged other countries to support similar efforts. Schenk emphasized that protecting forests and natural resources is essential to building a climate-resilient economy, and argued that investment in green development delivers returns worthy of sustained attention. Ugandan forest resource development researcher Robert Atugonza said Ethiopia is pursuing ambitious forestry and natural resource protection plans while delivering tangible results. He added that the initiative continues to serve as a foundation for climate mitigation, environmental protection, and food security. He urged other African countries, particularly in East Africa, to learn from Ethiopia’s approach and maintain momentum through collective effort. Tanzania-based forestry protection program coordinator Almas Kashindye described Ethiopia’s sustained seedling planting and care efforts as a remarkable public initiative. He noted that protecting and nurturing natural resources offers multiple benefits, including safeguarding biodiversity and water bodies, while supporting climate mitigation and food security. Bolivian scholar Humberto Gómez Cerveró, the Thematic Lead on Participatory Forest Restoration and Programme Coordinator at Tropenbos International also praised Ethiopia’s citizens for their contributions, noting that the seedlings planted in recent years carry significant value for ongoing global climate efforts. The researchers said the initiative reflects a comprehensive development strategy that has achieved notable success in a short period.

Addis Ababa, September 18, 2026 (ENA) — The European Union (EU) will support Ethiopia’s preparations to host the 32nd United Nations (UN) Climate Change Conference (COP32) and strengthen cooperation on environmental protection and green economic development, an EU official said. Adrián Cano Guerrero, Program Officer for Trade, Economic and Private Sector Development at the EU Delegation to Ethiopia, told ENA that the EU remains committed to close engagement with Ethiopia ahead of the global climate summit. “The commitment of the Ethiopian government to organize COP32 here in Ethiopia is something that the EU will be supporting and we will be having a very strong engagement on that,” Guerrero said. He said the EU’s engagement with Ethiopia extends beyond COP32 preparations, with climate change, environmental protection and sustainable economic development emerging as important areas of cooperation. Guerrero noted that the EU is among the international partners working to address climate change and environmental degradation, adding that Ethiopia’s COP32 preparations could create opportunities to expand cooperation with Ethiopian institutions. He further said the EU is interested in supporting initiatives that integrate climate action into economic activities and contribute to sustainable development. The cooperation could cover areas including environmental standards, water management, climate resilient development and the expansion of green economic activities. Guerrero said the EU also intends to work with Ethiopian institutions to translate climate cooperation into broader economic and environmental outcomes. The EU official also welcomed Ethiopia’s ongoing macroeconomic and structural reforms, saying the changes have resulted in visible transformations in several areas. “We really see the transformation that has been taking place on several realms: on FX, on the governance of certain institutions and on the SOE reform. We are really happy about it and we are trying to support them with our own actions,” he said. Guerrero further elaborated that EU’s multisectoral engagement is aligned with Ethiopia’s national development priorities and includes support for sustainable agricultural value chains, digitalization, green energy, public private sector engagement and improvements to the business environment. He also highlighted the EU’s interest in Ethiopia’s financial sector reforms, particularly the liberalization and privatization measures and the operationalization of the country’s capital market. The EU’s planned engagement comes as Ethiopia steps up preparations to host COP32 while pursuing economic reforms and climate related development initiatives aimed at supporting sustainable and green growth.

Addis Ababa, September 18, 2026 (ENA) — The potential impacts of El Niño in 2026 require political leadership, national ownership and regional solidarity, Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Deputy Commissioner Aydrus Hassan noted. He said they also require timely financing and early action beyond technical preparedness. In his opening remarks at the IGAD Regional High-Level Forum on El Niño Preparedness for the Horn of Africa, the Deputy Commissioner said Ethiopia is strengthening its disaster risk management system to become more multi-hazard, impact-based, anticipatory and multi-sectoral. The system links monitoring, forecasting, impact assessment, early warning, preparedness, anticipatory action and response, Aydrus added. Moreover, he said that Ethiopia is strengthening national self-reliance, including through its Disaster Risk Response Fund, which provides predictable financing for disaster preparedness, early warning, anticipatory action, response and resilience building. At the regional level, IGAD and ICPAC have been working to strengthen cross-border information sharing, joint risk analysis, inter-operable early-warning systems and coordinated anticipatory action. These efforts are important given risks affecting shared river basins, livestock corridors, markets and population movements. Aydrus urged IGAD member states to ensure that financing is available before disasters occur and translate the regional high-level call to action into concrete commitments. He added that international assistance should complement national leadership rather than substitute for it. The Deputy Commissioner further stressed the need to connect forecast, trigger, financing, and action to protect lives, livelihoods and development gains. The forum has brought together IGAD member states and partners to strengthen regional preparedness and early action. The 2026 El Niño is forecast by the World Meteorological Organization to become a very strong, potentially historic event peaking late in the year and extending into 2027.

Addis Ababa, September 16, 2026 (ENA) — Africa must ensure that its transition to electric mobility becomes an engine of industrial development rather than turning the continent into another market for imported products, Transport and Logistics Minister Alemu Sime said today. Opening the Nordic-Africa EV Summit 2026 in Addis Ababa, he added that Africa should participate across the electric-mobility value chain by strengthening local assembly and manufacturing. The Minister accordingly called for development of engineering and software capabilities, investment in research and development, integration of local supply chains, and establishment of battery management, second-life and recycling systems. “Most importantly, we must ensure that Africa’s transition to electric mobility becomes an engine of industrial development, not simply another market for imported products,” Alemu said. “The future of African electric mobility must be built for, built by, and owned by African institutions, African youth, and African communities,” he stressed. According to him, Ethiopia’s green transformation provides a strong foundation for the country’s transition to electric mobility. The country’s renewable energy potential can also help reduce dependence on imported petroleum products, improve urban air quality, create green industries and jobs, and support its climate commitments. The Minister, however, stressed that Ethiopia’s electric-mobility transition must go beyond increasing the number of electric vehicles. He noted that financing will be critical, with investment needed not only in vehicles but also in charging infrastructure, grid upgrades, digital platforms, manufacturing, maintenance and skills. But “government resources alone will not be enough,” he said, calling for partnerships among governments, development finance institutions, commercial banks, investors and industry, including patient capital and appropriate risk-sharing mechanisms. “Our goal must be to transform electric mobility from a promising opportunity into a bankable investment market,” he stated. The Minister also urged African countries to establish compatible standards, charging systems, payment platforms and communication technologies to facilitate cross-border mobility, regional trade and investment. “Africa should not become a collection of disconnected EV markets,” Alemu said, adding that “interoperability is, therefore, not merely a technical issue. It is a strategic issue.” The transition should extend beyond private passenger vehicles to electric buses, public transport, urban logistics, electric two- and three-wheelers and freight. The Minister also called for investment in universities, technical and vocational institutions, research centers and industry partnerships to develop the skills needed for the sector. “Research must guide policy, policy must enable investment, investment must support industry, and industry must create jobs for our youth.” The Nordic-Africa EV Summit, launched in Oslo in May 2026 and continuing in Addis Ababa in September, connects Africa’s electric-mobility transition with Nordic experience, technology and investment, focusing on infrastructure, financing, regional integration, manufacturing and scalable electric-mobility systems. The summit brings together African and Nordic governments, industry leaders, utilities, investors, development finance institutions, researchers and technology providers to advance electric mobility across Africa.

Addis Ababa, September 12, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed called for stronger cooperation among BRICS members and deeper engagement with Africa. Addressing the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, the Prime Minister emphasized the need to build resilience, expand value creation and accelerate climate and economic transformation. PM Abiy also thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government of India for their leadership, saying the summit’s theme of resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability reflects the interconnected challenges facing the world. “Shocks rarely come alone,” the Premier said, stressing that resilience must be built into national governance and systems before crises emerge. He highlighted Ethiopia’s progress in food security, noting that the country has moved from dependence on imported wheat toward self-sufficiency.   Ethiopia, Prime Minister Abiy said, therefore approaches the proposed BRICS grain exchange not only as a consumer but also as a producer and potential supplier. The Prime Minister also underscored Ethiopia’s efforts to expand pharmaceutical manufacturing, strengthen digital public infrastructure and develop digital identification, payment and data-exchange systems. On artificial intelligence, PM Abiy called for a more inclusive next generation of AI that better understands Africa’s languages, communities and knowledge systems. He said Ethiopia’s Medemer University of Artificial Intelligence reflects the country’s ambition to work with BRICS institutions to develop AI that better serves Africa, while stressing that ethical governance must be matched by research capacity, computing infrastructure, skills and strong institutions. The Premier further highlighted the potential for BRICS cooperation to connect Africa’s natural resources with capital, technology and markets, particularly, he explained untapped potential in critical minerals, renewable energy and advanced manufacturing.   “Africa holds many of these resources,” he said, emphasizing the opportunity to create greater value where resources are found rather than exporting raw materials without sufficient local value addition. He also pointed to Ethiopia’s strategic connectivity, citing Ethiopian Airlines’ global network, electricity exports to neighboring countries and Addis Ababa’s role as the headquarters of the African Union as platforms for wider economic and strategic partnerships. In this regard, Prime Minister Abiy called for stronger consultation between BRICS and the African Union to ensure engagement with the continent is better aligned with Agenda 2063. Turning to global finance, the Prime Minister urged faster, more transparent and predictable mechanisms for debt resolution, drawing on Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reforms and external debt restructuring. PM Abiy also backed efforts within BRICS to facilitate cross-border payments and expand the use of local currencies where this can reduce transaction costs and promote trade. On climate change, Premier Abiy said Ethiopia views climate action and economic transformation as mutually reinforcing priorities. He highlighted the Green Legacy Initiative, renewable energy expansion, electric mobility and investments in resilient agriculture, cities and infrastructure.   Looking ahead to COP32 in Addis Ababa in 2027, PM Abiy said Ethiopia intends to make the conference a “COP of delivery and hope,” with a strong focus on climate adaptation, practical solutions, climate finance and responsible use of emerging technologies. He proposed establishing a BRICS coordinating track on the road to COP32 to translate shared priorities into practical areas of agreement ahead of the Addis Ababa climate summit. Concluding his remarks, Abiy said the future requires countries to manage differences while pursuing common objectives, stressing that BRICS’ strength lies in what its members can achieve together. “Ethiopia comes to its partnership ready to contribute,” he said, inviting BRICS members to Addis Ababa for COP32 in 2027.

Addis Ababa, September 9, 2026 (ENA)—Addis Ababa has emerged as one of the world’s most climate-resilient major cities, ranking second globally in a new assessment by geospatial artificial intelligence institute AlphaGeo. The ranking places Addis Ababa ahead of dozens of major cities worldwide, highlighting the Ethiopian capital’s relatively low residual exposure to climate risks after accounting for adaptation measures. AlphaGeo’s report, “How Climate Resilient Are the World’s Largest Cities?”, assessed 72 of the world’s largest cities using its Climate Risk & Resilience Index (CRRI). The index examines exposure to major physical climate hazards and evaluates how effectively adaptation measures reduce the risks facing cities.   Addis Ababa recorded a resilience-adjusted risk (RAJ) score of 10, the second-lowest score in the global assessment. Since a lower score indicates lower residual climate risk after adaptation is taken into account, the result places Addis Ababa among the strongest-performing cities in the study. Only Chicago, with an RAJ score of 8, ranked higher. Melbourne and Barcelona followed with scores of 11, while Paris and Buenos Aires recorded 12. Addis Ababa was also among several African cities performing strongly in the assessment. Nairobi recorded an RAJ score of 13, while Johannesburg scored 16. According to AlphaGeo, the strong performance of Addis Ababa, Nairobi and Johannesburg is linked in significant part to their elevation and climate geography, which provide relatively lower baseline exposure to several of the hazards measured by the index. Adaptation capacity also contributes to their overall resilience. The assessment examined six major physical climate hazards, including inland and coastal flooding, heat stress, drought, wildfires and hurricane winds. AlphaGeo compared each city’s physical exposure with its resilience-adjusted risk to determine what it calls an “adaptation delta”—the reduction in risk associated with existing adaptation measures. The findings underline that climate resilience is not determined by geography alone.   Cities with comparable levels of physical exposure can experience markedly different residual risks depending on the strength of their infrastructure, governance, planning and investment in adaptation. For Addis Ababa, the ranking offers a significant international recognition of the capital’s position in an era of intensifying climate pressures.   It also highlights the importance of sustaining investment in urban infrastructure and climate adaptation as African cities expand and face growing environmental and economic risks.   AlphaGeo cautions that its scores represent city-level averages and may not capture significant differences between individual neighborhoods. Climate exposure and resilience can vary considerably within the same urban area. The company says the assessment is intended to help policymakers, investors and infrastructure owners identify where climate adaptation is reducing risk and where additional investment may be required. For Africa, the results reinforce the growing importance of building climate-resilient cities capable of protecting communities, infrastructure and economic activity against an increasingly uncertain climate future, it was learned.

Addis Ababa, September 3, 2026 (ENA)— United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), Claver Gatete, called on African nations to transition from a narrative of victimhood to positioning the continent as an active leader in global climate action. Speaking at the opening of the 14th Conference on Climate Change and Development in Africa (CCDA-XIV) in Addis Ababa, Executive Secretary Gatete stressed that while Africa contributes less than four percent of global greenhouse gas emissions yet bears the heaviest consequences, it must harness its strategic assets to influence global solutions. "While this remains an unfortunate reality for our continent, we must not allow it to limit Africa’s climate story to one of victimhood," Gatete declared. "We are also a continent of enormous renewable energy potential, critical mineral resources, a young population, expanding markets and growing technological capacity. But let’s also ask how we can harness these assets for our own development, and play a greater role in shaping the rules, investments and solutions that drive global climate action." The Executive Secretary noted that the annual theme, "From Pledges to Implementation," highlights a structural challenge where commitments and adaptation plans continue to outpace delivery. Turnaround, he argued, depends heavily on reforming how climate finance reaches the continent. Disclosing that Africa requires an estimated 277 billion US dollars annually through 2030 to implement its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)—with current flows covering merely 11 percent— Gatete raised alarm over financing terms that aggravate debt burdens. "The question is not simply how much finance we mobilize. We must also ask: At what cost? On what terms? And what development outcomes will it deliver?" Gatete cautioned. "For countries already grappling with high debt-service costs and limited fiscal space, the terms of climate finance matter enormously. Finance that adds to unsustainable debt will only make implementation harder." To break this bottleneck, he called for affordable climate finance anchored in grants and concessional funding, coupled with massive private capital mobilization. He emphasized that climate action must expand access to electricity for more than 600 million Africans without power, leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to process local resources and build cross-border value chains at scale. Outcomes from the three-day gathering will shape the Addis Ababa Climate Action Messages, framing concrete proposals for COP31 in Antalya and paving the way toward COP32 in Addis Ababa in 2027.

Addis Ababa, Sep 3, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative is contributing to climate change adaptation and mitigation while supporting biodiversity and ecosystem restoration, Africa Union Sustainable Environment and Blue Economy Director Harsen Nyambe said. Nyambe noted that Ethiopia’s initiatives such as the Green Legacy Initiative provide multiple environmental benefits, including ecosystem services such as clean air, while also helping reduce carbon emissions that contribute to rising temperatures. Speaking to ENA, he stated that such initiatives support climate change mitigation by reducing emissions, while simultaneously contributing to adaptation through the restoration of ecosystems and land. “Basically, it’s multipurpose in terms of benefits, and it’s also supporting biodiversity,” the Director said. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of experience-sharing among African countries, noting that member states have significant opportunities to learn from one another. Nyambe cited Ethiopia’s Green Legacy as an example of an initiative from which other countries could draw lessons, particularly those facing similar environmental challenges and seeking to implement comparable projects. According to him, Ethiopia should share its experience and information with other African countries so they can learn from initiatives already being implemented in the country. “Ethiopia should take the floor and share the experience so that other countries can learn from them,” he stressed. The Green Legacy Initiative has been implemented as part of the country’s efforts to restore degraded landscapes and expand tree coverage with its environmental interventions contributing to ecosystem restoration and climate resilience.