Addis Ababa, January 26, 2026 (ENA) -The IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC) has reaffirmed its commitment to developing a joint action plan to ensure the successful implementation of the IGAD Regional Framework for Climate Services (RFCS). The pledge was made during the 72nd Greater Horn of Africa Climate Outlook Forum (GHACOF72), currently underway in Nairobi under the theme “Advancing Climate Services for Resilient Communities and Sustainable Development in the Greater Horn of Africa.” The hybrid forum has brought together climate scientists, government institutions, development partners, media, and civil society representatives from across the region. Addressing the two-day forum, ICPAC Director Abdi Fidar highlighted the Horn of Africa’s high vulnerability to climate variability and extreme weather events, including recurrent droughts, floods, and increasing land degradation. “These realities reinforce the critical importance of GHACOF as a regional platform for consensus building, shared understanding of climate risks, and coordinated early action,” he said. Fidar emphasized ICPAC’s close collaboration with national meteorological and hydrological services, sector ministries, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), and development partners. He noted that the center has made significant progress in strengthening regional climate prediction, monitoring, and the delivery of user-oriented climate services. “GHACOF remains central as a mechanism for producing seasonal climate outlooks and translating climate information into actionable steps,” he added. The IGAD Regional Framework for Climate Services was launched and endorsed in September 2025 during the Second Africa Climate Summit in Addis Ababa. The framework provides a coordinated, user-centered approach to improving the generation, dissemination, and application of climate services across the IGAD region. However, Fidar stressed that the framework’s impact will depend on effective implementation, strong coordination, and sustained partnerships. He confirmed ICPAC’s readiness to work closely with national meteorological and hydrological services, government institutions, development partners, research and academic institutions, the private sector, and civil society organizations to jointly develop and implement an action plan. Such collaboration, he noted, is essential to ensuring climate information supports early action, disaster risk reduction, climate-resilient development, and long-term planning throughout the Greater Horn of Africa. Organized by ICPAC, GHACOF remains one of the region’s key climate forums, providing a critical platform for cross-sectoral dialogue on seasonal climate outlooks and emerging climate challenges.

Addis Ababa, January 21, 2026 (ENA)— The Ministry of Finance said that Ethiopia and Norway have vowed to strengthen their collaborations on forest and climate finance. The Ministry of Finance recently convened the Joint Consultation Group under the Ethiopia-Norway Partnership on Forest and Climate Change. Co-chaired by Semereta Sewasew, Ethiopia's State Minister of Finance, and Stian Christensen, the Norwegian Ambassador to Ethiopia, the two parts held a meeting focused on advancing strategic operations in forest conservation and climate finance.     According to a press release by the ministry, the meeting also focused on reviewing progress under the 2024 Partnership Agreement and shaping the future direction of the REDD+ Investment Program beyond June 2026. Semereta Sewasew emphasized that climate change is an immediate and tangible challenge for Ethiopia, with recurrent droughts and floods affecting livelihoods, food security, and economic stability. She reaffirmed the government’s strong commitment to the partnership and highlighted the importance of sustainable and participatory forest management. By involving local communities in forest stewardship, Ethiopia aims to align conservation objectives with economic incentives, reduce deforestation pressures, strengthen social cohesion, and safeguard long-term forest productivity. The meeting also acknowledged the leadership of PM Abiy Ahmed’s Green Legacy Initiative (GLI), which has strengthened coordination across federal, regional, and local institutions and contributed to Ethiopia being selected as host of COP32 in 2027. According to Semereta, Norway has been a foundational partner in Ethiopia’s REDD+ architecture since 2013. Beyond financing, Norway has supported institutional, technical, and fiduciary capacity development across government institutions responsible for forest management, climate policy, land administration, and environmental protection. This support has strengthened Measurement, Reporting, and Verification systems, safeguards, and carbon accounting frameworks, enabling Ethiopia to advance towards results-oriented forest climate finance. She further noted that carbon credit transactions under the partnership are nearing finalization, reflecting the maturity of Ethiopia’s institutional systems and the effectiveness of Norway’s capacity-building support. The anticipated completion of these transactions will mark a major milestone in Ethiopia’s transition toward market-linked climate finance. Ambassador Stian Christensen also commended Ethiopia’s strong ownership and progress, emphasizing Norway’s continued commitment to supporting the country as it works towards results-based payments, an approach that rewards verified outcomes, reinforces accountability, and promotes long-term sustainability. The forest sector remains a central pillar of Ethiopia’s economic and environmental resilience. Well-managed forests enhance agricultural productivity, stabilize water systems, reduce land degradation, and improve resilience to climate shocks, while participatory management ensures these benefits are shared equitably. Strong institutional leadership, supported by Norway’s long-term partnership, is essential for sustaining these outcomes, the ambassador added. Dyveke Rogan, the Deputy Director of Norway’s International Climate and Forest Initiative (NICFI) noted that the REDD+ Investment Program III will follow a blended financing framework for 2026–2030. She added that the program will build on Norwegian support of USD 60 million, USD 40 million from the Green Legacy Initiative Special Fund, and additional resources carried forward. The next phase aims to deepen participatory forest management, strengthen institutional coordination, accelerate land restoration, and advance Ethiopia’s work towards results-oriented forest finance while mobilizing private sector investment. Semereta expressed her deep appreciation for Norway’s sustained partnership and innovative financing approaches, emphasizing that Norway’s support has been instrumental in positioning Ethiopia as a credible leader as it works towards results-oriented forest climate finance, empowering communities, and ensuring long-term economic, environmental, and climate resilience.

Ethiopia’s expanding efforts to curb plastic pollution, limit exposure to toxic chemicals, and increase urban green spaces are earning praise from international health and environmental experts. The experts told ENA that the measures could significantly reduce cancer risks among children and strengthen the country’s position as a leader in sustainable development in Africa. Experts noted that environmental protection plays a critical role in disease prevention, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children, and emphasized that Ethiopia’s proactive approach could yield long-term public health benefits. Dr. Bronwyn McNamara, a primary healthcare practitioner from Australia, said Ethiopia’s environmental policies are already producing visible improvements. “I can see a big difference, and I really acknowledge that the Ethiopian Environmental Protection Authority (EPA)is addressing issues related to plastic and chemical contaminants,” she said. Dr. McNamara stressed that prevention through environmental protection is essential to safeguarding public health. “It’s a very important area to prevent health issues in your population,” she noted. She also commended Ethiopia’s investment in urban parks and green spaces, highlighting their wide-ranging health benefits. “The green areas and making areas specifically for parks—I can congratulate that initiative,” she said. According to McNamara, green spaces promote physical activity, social interaction, and improved air quality. “It helps get people exercising, interacting, and children playing in green areas,” she explained, adding that trees and plants help produce oxygen and remove environmental contaminants. Prof. Sheila Weitzman of the University of Toronto echoed these views, emphasizing that environmental improvement is a long-term investment in public health, particularly for children. “Improving the environment eventually has to make an impact—that’s the goal,” she said. “If we can prevent illness, that is much better than treating it.” She underscored the importance of shifting from reactive medical interventions to proactive prevention strategies to protect future generations. Firew Kefyalew, East Africa Director of Pure Earth and a prominent environmental advocate, drew a direct connection between plastic pollution and increased health risks among children, including cancer. “Cleaning environments benefits us all—ourselves, our future, and our children,” he said. Firew emphasized that reducing plastic pollution begins with individual responsibility. “You do not clean to please others; you clean it for yourself, for the future, and for children,” he stated. Calling for collective action, he urged the public to refrain from using single-use plastic products and promoted plogging—picking up litter while jogging—as a simple and effective way to protect children’s health, reduce disease risks, and build a sustainable environmental legacy for Ethiopia.

Addis Ababa, January 16, 2026 (ENA)-- Ethiopia and Morocco have convened their first-ever joint defense committee meeting aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation across various military fields on Thursday. The discussion includes advancing military cooperation between the two countries in ways that ensure mutual benefit for their respective defense institutions. Cooperation in education and training, defense industry collaboration, technology transfer, and other areas of military engagement were also discussed. Major General Teshome Gemechu, Director General of External Relations and Military Cooperation at the ENDF, said relations between Ethiopia and Morocco are steadily strengthening across multiple sectors. He noted that the longstanding friendship between the two countries reflects African solidarity and a shared commitment to working together for common interests. He also stated that the joint committee meeting marked a historic milestone in Ethiopia–Morocco relations, opening a new phase for the practical implementation of agreed areas of cooperation. Brigadier General Abdelkahar Atmane, Director of the Quartermaster Directorate of the Royal Armed Forces of Morocco, described the agreement reached during the meeting as a significant development in military relations. He said Morocco is determined to further elevate defense cooperation with Ethiopia, adding that progress achieved so far has been encouraging. He further noted that Morocco has initiated the process of utilizing Ethiopian defense supplies, stating that implementation of this initiative is expected to begin in the near future.

Addis Ababa, January 16, 2026 (ENA)—Riverside development in Ethiopia is guided by a comprehensive vision that goes beyond simply treating or restoring river streams,” Office of the Prime Minister said. According to the social media post by the office, the approach focuses on integrated infrastructure development along riverbanks, with buffer zones that may extend beyond or fall within 50 meters on each side depending on the area and local conditions. ​​​​​By organizing land use within these corridors, the initiative aims to reduce pollution and flood risks, restore ecosystems, and create public spaces, mobility networks, and economic opportunities. This flexible and holistic strategy is transforming riverbanks into well-managed, productive, and livable environments that support sustainable urban growth and community well-being.

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

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

Addis Ababa, January 11, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia’s ongoing agricultural reforms are reinforcing national food self-reliance while attracting growing interest from international development partners, according to a senior official from the Canadian Food Grains Bank (CFGB). CFGB Senior Program Manager Hailemariam Menamo said Ethiopia’s policy-driven transformation of the agricultural sector is delivering measurable results in sustainability, conservation agriculture, and domestic wheat production. Speaking to ENA, Hailemariam noted that the government’s structured and forward-looking agricultural strategy has created a strong foundation for coordinated global engagement. “These reforms are improving sustainability while also creating space for international organizations to collaborate more effectively,” he said. “Partners are now able to align resources and share knowledge to address complex food security challenges.” He emphasized that Ethiopia’s policy environment has enabled development actors to work in a more integrated manner, enhancing the overall impact of agricultural and food security programs. A central pillar of this progress, he explained, is the close cooperation between CFGB and the Ethiopian government, particularly in promoting conservation agriculture. This approach seeks to increase productivity while protecting soil health, water resources, and surrounding ecosystems. According to Hailemariam, these efforts are increasingly evident in Ethiopia’s push to expand local wheat production. New government guidelines have helped farmers improve yields and reduce dependence on imported grain. “Wheat has traditionally been grown in exporting countries like Canada,” he said. “But Ethiopia is now producing wheat locally by empowering farmers with the right policies, training, and research support.” CFGB and its partners are working with farmers to boost productivity on smaller plots of land, while collaborating with research institutions and government scientists to adapt high-yield practices to local conditions. He added that combining hands-on farmer training with locally led research ensures that improved techniques are effectively applied across both smallholder and large-scale farming systems. Reflecting on his experience across Eastern Africa, Hailemariam praised Ethiopia’s leadership and long-term commitment to agricultural development. “I have visited many countries in the region, and what Ethiopia is achieving stands out,” he said. “The progress we see today is the result of strong policy direction and national ownership.” He also highlighted Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative, noting CFGB’s involvement in tree planting and biodiversity enhancement. Youth cooperatives, he said, are playing a key role by managing nurseries that produce agroforestry crops such as avocado and mango. “These young farmers are creating new income opportunities while contributing to environmental restoration,” he said.

Addis Ababa, January 10, 2026 (ENA)—The Norway’s Development Fund has praised Ethiopia’s soil and water conservation efforts as a decisive step forward for the national Green Legacy Initiative (GLI). Speaking exclusively to ENA, Head of Programs at Norway’s Development Fund, Sisay Kassahun, said Ethiopia’s sustained conservation measures are reversing decades of environmental degradation caused by deforestation and land misuse. He recalled that Ethiopia’s forest cover once stood at 25 to 30 percent but declined sharply over generations, triggering severe soil erosion, recurring droughts, bio-diversity loss and heightened exposure to climate extremes such as floods and heat waves. “It’s very much a permanent, it’s a decisive measure that we need to take the Green Legacy initiative moving forward. Because you see, we lost in our childhood, the forest coverage of Ethiopia was about 25 to 30 percent. But since the GLI, there are indications that the forest coverage of Ethiopia is just increasing now,” Sisay said. According to him, protecting soil through large scale tree planting and vegetation management is not only an environmental priority but also a matter of national survival, agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods. He highlighted agro-forestry as a central strategy, particularly for smallholder farmers who cultivate limited land. Average household plots, he noted, are about half a hectare, making extensive farming impractical. “It’s our strategy to promote agro-forestry to our smaller farms. Within a limited area of land, farmers will be advised to plant trees for food, like papaya, avocados and mango. The average household land size is about 0.5 hectare, so you can’t imagine having an extensive sort of farming,” he explained. Through local partners, the Development Fund supports biological measures such as tree planting to stabilize soil and conserve moisture, alongside physical structures including soil bunds, terraces and stone check dams. These interventions help harvest rainwater, reduce erosion and rehabilitate degraded land into productive farmland. “As much as possible, the soil and water conservation activities are supported with biological activities, that means planting trees wherever possible, and also the physical activities, like the construction of soil bunds and stone structures. So, it’s very much aligned with the Green Legacy initiative of the Ethiopian government,” Sisay said. He added that the integrated approach demonstrates how small farms can remain productive while restoring ecosystems, strengthening rural economies and building resilience against climate change. By linking environmental restoration with livelihoods, Ethiopia is laying the foundation for healthier landscapes and long-term stability for future generations, he noted.

January 5, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia’s Renewable Energy drive is anchored in ambitious national goals to power sustainable growth, expand reliable electricity access, and support industrialization while protecting the environment, Office of the Prime Minister said. According to the social media post by the office today, by prioritizing clean energy sources such as hydropower, wind, solar, and geothermal, the country is working to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, strengthen energy security, and lower emissions.   These efforts aim to provide affordable power for households and industries, enable local manufacturing, and support job creation, while extending electricity to underserved communities, the office said. Together, Ethiopia’s renewable energy initiatives are laying the foundation for a resilient, climate-friendly economy and long-term energy independence.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced that Ethiopia’s tea development initiative, implemented as part of the Green Legacy Program, is showing strong progress. In a message shared on his social media channels, the Prime Minister noted that the initial success in tea planting demonstrates the country’s potential to expand the sector. According to the Prime Minister, continued efforts in agro-processing and increased private sector involvement to add value will be crucial, adding if sustained, the initiative is expected to strengthen export earnings while also meeting domestic tea consumption needs. “The tea development initiative, which is part of the Green Legacy program, is being implemented successfully. The promising start observed in planting, if followed through with full agro-processing and supported by private sector participation to add value, will benefit our country through exports in addition to meeting domestic consumption needs,” he noted.

January 1, 2026 (ENA)—The Ministry of Transport and Logistics has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to advancing and strengthening green mobility initiatives nationwide, State Minister for Transport and Logistics Bereo Hassen announced. Ethio-Green Mobility Week 2025, which has been held for the last five days at Addis International Convention Center, successfully concluded on Wednesday. At the closing ceremony, Transport and Logistics State Minister, Bereo Hassen said that Ethio-Green Mobility Week 2025 expo met its goals effectively. He emphasized that the expo was a pivotal gathering for various stakeholders, fostering the exchange of valuable insights and creating a prime opportunity for manufacturers and customers to connect. He highlighted that the expo showcased cutting-edge green transport technologies, emphasizing the sector’s role in cultivating a collective awareness of the urgent need to tackle climate change. The expo highlighted how Ethiopians are shifting away from dependence on foreign technology, focusing instead on innovative solutions, he added. Expressing optimism for Ethiopia's future, he reaffirmed the nation's commitment to advancing its initiatives in the green transport sector. He expressed gratitude to the participants for their contributions to the exhibition's success, anticipating even greater advancements in innovation in the coming years. Moreover, he pointed out Ethiopia's proactive steps toward green development, including the green mobility initiative that was aimed at promoting electric vehicles and reducing climate vulnerability.

Addis Ababa, December 27, 2025 (ENA)—Researchers at Haramaya University have successfully developed and are expanding cultivation of a breakthrough animal fodder variety that promises to transform livestock productivity across Ethiopia's semi-arid regions. Dargo Kebede, a researcher and lecturer at the university's Department of Natural Resource Management and Environmental Science, announced that the institution has developed "Lyme Grass" through extensive research and is now scaling up its distribution across target communities. The innovative grass variety is being introduced across three districts and four kebeles in the East Hararghe Zone and Dire Dawa City Administration, with implementation occurring at farmer training centers and on agricultural plots, Dargo elaborated. According to him, the program has already reached approximately 1,000 farmer households, marking a significant milestone in agricultural extension efforts. The new variety addresses longstanding challenges with traditional grass species that required extensive moisture and large cultivation areas while competing with crops for essential nutrients and water resources, he said. Unlike conventional fodder options, Lyme Grass demonstrates remarkable resilience against frost, drought, and rainfall deficits while producing substantial yields on minimal land area, he added. The grass reaches maturity within just one to one-and-a-half months, offering rapid turnover that directly addresses the chronic animal feed shortages plaguing the Hararghe region. Local farmers have embraced the variety, dubbing it "Dandemeta," meaning "all-resistant," in recognition of its exceptional adaptability to harsh environmental conditions. Field trials have demonstrated the grass's superior nutritional profile, which significantly enhances meat production efficiency in livestock operations. The research team conducted comprehensive feeding trials with cattle, confirming measurable improvements in weight gain and overall animal health. Farmers report harvesting the grass up to five times per growing season, with each cutting providing high-quality fodder that can be utilized both fresh and dried. The variety's nutrient density has proven, particularly effective for dairy operations, with producers noting substantial increases in milk yields. According to research published on the University’s website and reviewed by ENA, Lyme grass offers benefits beyond its primary use as animal feed. When planted in terraced rows, the grass serves as an effective erosion control measure while enhancing water infiltration and maintaining soil fertility for companion crops. This dual-purpose capability makes it an attractive option for integrated farming systems. The variety can be safely intercropped without overshadowing other plants, allowing farmers to maximize land use efficiency. Early adopters report that the grass has reduced their labor burden while improving household food security and income generation potential. The university plans to intensify its extension efforts, recognizing the variety's potential to significantly boost income from the livestock sector. The research team is also exploring commercial seed production opportunities, which could create additional revenue streams for participating farmers. Dargo emphasized that the university remains committed to making improved fodder varieties accessible to farming communities, viewing this as a critical component of livestock productivity enhancement initiatives. He is hopeful that the success of Lyme Grass cultivation represents a model that could be replicated across Ethiopia's pastoralist and agropastoralist communities. As climate variability continues to challenge traditional farming systems, innovations like Lyme Grass offer hope for building more resilient agricultural livelihoods. The university's ongoing commitment to practical research applications demonstrates how academic institutions can directly contribute to rural development and food security objectives. Farmers participating in the program have expressed enthusiasm for expanding cultivation in upcoming seasons, signaling strong community buy-in for this agricultural innovation. The initiative represents a promising step toward addressing Ethiopia's livestock feed challenges through locally-adapted, research-backed solutions.

Addis Ababa, December 27, 2025— Ethiopia is advancing on a successful journey toward prosperity anchored firmly in green development, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh said today. While officially opening the second Ethio Green Mobility week 2025 at the Addis International Convention Center, Temesgen emphasized that the nation’s core strategy for growth is built upon a foundation of environmental stewardship and sustainable innovation. The Deputy Prime Minister noted that Ethiopia is now strategically translating the monumental success of its Green Legacy Initiative into the transport and logistics sectors, he said. This evolution reflects a steadfast commitment to slashing carbon emissions and establishing a climate-resilient economic framework, he noted.     According to the Deputy Prime Minister, Ethiopia aims to replicate the success achieved under the Green Legacy Initiative in the transport and logistics sector by promoting green mobility solutions and sustainable technologies. Reflecting on the relationship between humanity and the environment, Temesgen observed that the Earth was inherently created green he said, adding human progress can only harmonize with nature by embracing technologies that mitigate pollution. He also stressed that international climate negotiations must move beyond dialogue and result in concrete action. Temesgen explained that Ethiopia is pursuing a results-oriented and action-driven approach to environmental protection, noting that reductions in pollution, the expansion of green movements, and the growing adoption of electric vehicles are key indicators of this progress. He highlighted achievements under the Green Legacy Initiative, including river clean-up efforts, restrictions on plastic packaging, and the promotion of vehicles powered by renewable energy. He further underscored the importance of integrating electric vehicles with clean energy infrastructure such as hydroelectric, solar, and wind power to lower carbon emissions and reduce energy costs. Initiatives focused on sustainable transportation, he said, will not only help curb emissions but also position Ethiopia as a leader in green industrialization in Africa. Describing the exhibition held as part of Green Mobility Week, the Deputy Prime Minister said it showcases innovative technologies that support Ethiopia’s de-pollution efforts. He noted that the event provides policymakers, investors, and the public with valuable insight into modern and sustainable transportation solutions being developed in the country. He concluded by reaffirming the government’s strong commitment to ensuring that Ethiopia’s journey to prosperity is anchored in green development, calling on all segments of society to contribute through practical action. He also assured that the government will continue to strengthen its leadership role in achieving this goal.

Addis Ababa, December 27, 2025 (ENA)—South Sudan’s Minister of Livestock and Fisheries, Onyoti Adigo Nyikwac, has called on Horn of Africa nations to deepen regional cooperation on livestock development and climate resilience, citing Ethiopia as a practical model for confronting shared environmental threats. Approached by ENA, Minister Nyikwac said Ethiopia’s experience shows how coordinated policies and long-term investment can protect livelihoods in a region increasingly exposed to droughts and floods. Highlighting Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative, the minister said large scale reforestation is already delivering environmental benefits by reducing land degradation, stabilizing rainfall patterns, and restoring ecosystems critical to pastoral economies. It is worth noting that as Ethiopia strengthens its green initiatives, the country is building on a long-standing tradition of environmental stewardship through large-scale tree planting, land restoration, and climate-resilient development strategies aimed at reversing deforestation and land degradation. These efforts have yielded tangible benefits for Ethiopia’s livestock sector by improving pasture availability, enhancing soil fertility, safeguarding watersheds, and stabilizing local microclimates—key pillars for sustainable animal production. “Ethiopia has made significant progress in livestock management and can support neighboring countries like South Sudan,” Nyikwac stated. “Instead of progressing in isolation, we need cooperation so our communities can cope together.” He warned that climate change is inflicting severe damage across the region, with recurring cycles of prolonged drought followed by flash flooding wiping out herds, displacing communities, and undermining food security. According to the minister, the loss of livestock has direct consequences for income, nutrition, and social stability in pastoral areas. Nyikwac called on member states of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development to adopt coordinated mitigation and adaptation strategies, stressing that fragmented national responses are no longer sufficient. He said regional collaboration should focus on climate resilient infrastructure, sustainable resource management, and capacity building at community level. Among the priority measures he outlined were the development of cross border livestock corridors, expansion of reliable water points, and implementation of large scale pasture development programs to reduce pressure on degraded rangelands. He also emphasized the need for stronger disaster preparedness, including clear protocols to relocate animals to higher ground during floods, as well as early warning systems to protect herders from climate shocks. In addition, he underscored the importance of basic veterinary training and services to prevent avoidable losses from disease. “Africa risks falling behind without coordinated action,” Nyikwac he revealed, adding that regional peace and economic stability are closely tied to the resilience of the livestock sector.

  Ethiopia and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) have signed a partnership agreement to collaborate on the successful delivery of the 32nd Conference of the Parties (COP32), which Ethiopia is set to host. The agreement follows high-level discussions between Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, held on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, on 23 November 2025. Under the partnership, UNECA will provide comprehensive support to the COP32 Presidency, including coordination of institutional capacities across the United Nations system, to ensure effective preparation and implementation of the global climate conference.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held discussions with the African Union Commission Chairperson and his team on ways Ethiopia and the AU can collaborate to deliver a truly African COP. "I am pleased to note that, under the leadership of Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the AUC is committed to being a key partner of Ethiopia in making COP32 a great success. "

Addis Ababa, December 11, 2025 (ENA)—The Green Legacy Program is supporting efforts to ensure food sovereignty by boosting production and productivity, according to Ministry of Agriculture. The program is also playing a significant role in expanding irrigated agriculture by enhancing the groundwater potential of the country. Initiated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the Green Legacy Program, has significantly contributed to the global effort to prevent climate change. Moreover, the program has not only provided hope for the future generation but also ensured benefits of this generation by playing a significant role in creating employment opportunities and ensuring food security. In recognition of the commitment of the country to preventing climate change, Ethiopia was recently selected to host the 32nd World Climate Conference (COP-32). Fanuse Mekonnen, a Lead Executive Officer at the Ministry’s Natural Resources Development, Conservation, and Utilization sector and Green Legacy Program National Technical Committee Secretary, said the Green Legacy Program is providing a practical response to Ethiopia’s efforts to ensure food security.     More than 48 billion seedlings have been planted in the past seven years , out of which 40 percent are indigenous. The program has been significantly contributing to improving agricultural productivity by reducing soil erosion and increasing fertility, he noted, adding that it is playing a vital role in expanding irrigated agriculture by increasing the volume of groundwater. The Green Legacy Program National Technical Committee Secretary further stated that edible plants, including vegetables and fruits, have been widely planted through the Green Legacy Program. This has significantly contributed to incomes of families and the improvement of the food system, Fanuse said. Furthermore, the Green Legacy Program is creating favorable conditions for honey production and increasing the benefits of beekeepers by boosting forest coverage. Besides, it is contributing toward ensuring food sovereignty by transforming drought-prone and marginalized areas into productive areas.

Addis Ababa, December 11, 2025 (ENA) —New climate assessments warn that severe drought conditions are tightening their grip on East Africa, driven by the ongoing La Niña phenomenon, even as southern parts of the continent brace for worsening floods. According to the latest Global Weather Hazards Summary (Dec 11–17, 2025), southern Somalia and eastern Kenya are experiencing the most acute shortages, with rainfall deficits since the start of the season pushing communities into severe drought. The dryness extends across southern, western, and central Ethiopia, much of Uganda, northern and central Tanzania, and parts of the DRC, disrupting agriculture and worsening food insecurity. In South Sudan, inundation continues across the Sudd wetlands, further complicating humanitarian operations. While East Africa dries out, Southern Africa is facing the opposite crisis: weeks of above-average rainfall have saturated soils in Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, and Madagascar, creating high flood risks in the days ahead. Southern Côte d’Ivoire and southwestern Ghana are also on heightened alert after a month of heavy rainfall. The report highlights widening temperature extremes as well, with abnormally hot conditions expected in southern Somalia and northeastern Kenya, adding stress to already fragile environments.

Addis Ababa, December 10, 2025—Ethiopia’s selection to host the 32nd United Nations Climate Change Conference stands as a clear acknowledgment of its progress in building climate resilience, said Ferdinand von Weyhe, Chargé d'Affaires of the German Embassy in Addis Ababa. Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative, launched in 2019 by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, has played a pivotal role in enhancing environmental and ecological security through extensive tree planting and landscape restoration, according to Ferdinand von Weyhe, German Embassy Chargé d'Affaires in Addis Ababa. He emphasized that the initiative embodies Ethiopia’s firm commitment to nature conservation and sustainable development. Ethiopia secured the opportunity to host COP32 during the COP30 conference held in Belém, Brazil, a decision Weyhe described as global recognition of the country’s growing leadership on climate issues.     Speaking to ENA, he highlighted Ethiopia’s “tangible progress” across several green development projects, including significant advances in hydroelectric power and renewable energy. He views this event as a major positive sign for Ethiopia and all of Africa, emphasizing the continent's vital importance in global efforts to address and act on climate change. He noted that hosting COP32 carries great significance for the entire continent, showcasing Africa’s expanding influence in addressing the climate crisis. Ethiopia’s accomplishments in green economy initiatives, renewable energy expansion, and large-scale afforestation were key factors behind the selection. Ethiopia's robust existing climate action efforts and sees a growing chance to expand the use of green energy and electricity to power more of the country, he added. He also credited Ethiopia’s active involvement in African Climate Summits and international forums as contributing to the decision to host COP32. Highlighting the partnership between Germany and Ethiopia, he said climate resilience in agriculture remains a critical focus for both countries. Germany is committed to supporting Ethiopia’s green economy efforts and plans to deepen cooperation in light of the country’s progress. He further highlighting the Green Legacy initiative's significance, noting that it provided an important African perspective before the Belém Conference. He further emphasized Ethiopia's future role as a COP host, offers concrete proof of the nation's ongoing work in reforestation and building climate resilience.