Addis Ababa ,November 20/2023(ENA) The African Union (AU) is working on how to conjointly implement the Great Green Wall Initiative with the Green Legacy Initiative, which has been registering tremendous results in combating desertification in Ethiopia, AU Director for the Great Green Wall Initiative, Elvis Paul Tangem said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Paul recalled that the Great Green Wall Initiative is a pan-African sustainable land management and restoration initiative that was created in 2005 by the heads of state. The Great Green Wall initiative is a large-scale project aimed at combating desertification in the Sahel region of Africa, stretching from Senegal to Djibouti. The program is currently being implemented in the Sahel region and it has been extended to southern Africa. “We have the 16 countries of the Southern Africa region, and then we also have Somalia that has just joined as well as Ethiopia of course is a big part of the Great Green Wall Initiative,” he elaborated. “With the Green Legacy Initiative instigated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, we now working how we can join in our work together to the Great Green Wall Initiative and Green Legacy Initiative that has done tremendous work in combating desertification, climate resilience and enhancing carbon sequestration and climate change in generality in Ethiopia.” The Green Legacy Program has proven to be a cornerstone program and very successful due to the direct involvement of the Prime Minister, Paul described. “It has really been successful because of the strong political engagement and personal engagement of Prime Minister Abiy. I think that is an example to follow.” Moreover, he elaborated that we have seen how the whole community of Ethiopia both in urban and rural areas have been involved behind the Prime Minister in engaging in planting, protecting and ensuring the wellbeing of these trees. Noting we have seen how the government is supporting the community, he commended the strong collaboration among the government, the private sector, the NGOs, international communities, under the leadership of the government in implementing the initiative. "It is very important that we in the Great Green Wall Initiative, we get involved, we look at the model that the Green Legacy program has been using to see how we can enhance the expanding to other countries," he elaborated. The Director said AU has already been working with the government of Ethiopia with the Environment, Forest and Climate Change Commission to see how they can assist our neighboring countries, which have also been very impacted by climate change. The Green Legacy Initiative is a flagship program initiated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in June 2019 with a target of planting more than 50 billion seedlings in two phases. The nation had successfully implemented the first phase of the initiative by planting 25 billion seedlings in four years by mobilizing more than 20 million people from all corners of the country. Efforts are also being carried out to plant another 25 billion seedlings over the coming four years. Members of the international community including embassies and the UN agencies based in Ethiopia are also participating in the tree seedling campaigns.

Addis Ababa ,November 17/2023 2023 (ENA):-Ethiopia is committed to implement REDD+ Investment Program Phase II to realize green economic growth and development by reducing greenhouse gas emission, Agriculture Minister Girma Amente said. Ethiopian Forestry Development REDD+ Investment Program Phase II was launched today in the presence of government officials and development partners.   The project funded with 25 million USD by the Norwegian government runs until 2026, it was learned. Speaking on the occasion, Agriculture Minister Girma Amente said the Ethiopian government recognizes the important contribution of forest in realizing green economic growth and development by reducing greenhouse gas emission. To realize the potential of forests, the government has been working with bilateral and multilateral development partners to strengthen and further develop the conservation, development and sustainable use of forest resources, he added. Moreover, it would restore degraded landscape, introduce innovation and best practices, and transform the sector. According to him, Norway’s support aligns with the government’s policy and it is committed to implementing REDD+ Investment Program Phase II. Girma stated that Ethiopia has planted 32.5 billion seedlings over the past five years through the Green Legacy Initiative. Norway Ambassador to Ethiopia, Stian Christensen said on his part that Norway and Ethiopia enjoy close collaboration on wide range of issues. One key area is climate change to increase food security where Norway has been a longstanding partner of Ethiopia, he noted. Since 2017, the total Norwegian support for forest and climate in Ethiopia, is approximately 130 million USD, according to the ambassador. Christensen promised that Norway will continue to contribute supporting Ethiopia’s effort to mitigate climate change and improve livelihood. Ethiopia Forestry Development (EFD) Director-General, Kebede Yimam said Ethiopia is closely working with Norway to mitigate the negative impacts of climate change. He thanked the Norwegian government for its continued financial support which has been instrumental in protecting and developing forest resources. REDD+ Investment Program Phase II is expected to contribute to Ethiopia’s nationally determined contribution (NDC) targets of emission reduction, increased forest cover, and increased GDP.  

Addis Ababa November 13/2023 (ENA) Ensuring the participation of women is pivotal in addressing the impact of climate change worldwide as they are the key players in community resilience, State Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Mesganu Arga said. Addressing a half-day seminar organized by Ministry of foreign affairs, UNESCO and Embassy of UAE in Ethiopia with the theme “Empowering Women the Public Sphere and Climate Spaces” Ambassador Mesganu said climate change is an existential threat.   Empowering women in the face of climate change means recognizing their unique knowledge and contribution to sustainable development, the state minister pointed out. Ensuring the participation of women in climate adaptation and mitigation efforts is pivotal as women play a crucial role in conservation, sustainable agriculture and community resilience, he further elaborated. “We continue to strive to ensure the inclusion of women within every aspect of our efforts, creating an enabling environment for women led climate action.” Director of UNESCO Liaison Office to AUC and UNECA and Country Representative to Ethiopia Rita Bissoonauth said for her part that women play a pivotal role in climate adaptation and mitigation efforts not only in Africa but worldwide. Highlighting that women’s knowledge and potential can significantly contribute to climate solution and sustainable development, she said yet women often find themselves undr-represented in decision making spaces related to climate change. “As UNESCO we strongly support and recognize the pivotal role of women as agent of change in climate change.” She added that women’s involvement enhances creativity and introduces diverse perspective resulting in more inclusive and effective climate policies and actions. Similarly, Charged’ Affairs at the Embassy of UAE in Ethiopia Suood Al Taniji said the UAE believes in the important role of women in addressing the climate crisis. Stressing that promoting gender equality is important, he affirmed the UAE has always been committed to the empowerment of women.  

Addis Ababa, November 9/2023 (ENA) Ethiopia and the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) have discussed the roadmap for Ethiopia's upcoming two-year presidency of the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN). The discussions took place during a meeting between Ethiopian Minister of Planning and Development Fitsum Asefa and UNEP Director and Regional Representative for Africa Rose Mwebaza. During the meeting, the two parties agreed to collaborate and coordinate their efforts to achieve the goals of the AMCEN presidency. They also discussed the importance of UNEP's support for Ethiopia's GEF8-supported projects, which are aimed at scaling up and scaling out the best practices of the Green Legacy Initiative of Ethiopia. Fitsum highlighted the successful convening of the 19th session of the AMCEN under Ethiopia's presidency that was held in August 2023 in Addis Ababa, which resulted in a common position for the Group of African Negotiators (AGN) towards COP28 and also adopted a number of declarations and decisions on chemical and waste management as well as combating biodiversity loss and desertification. She reaffirmed Ethiopia's commitment to working with all stakeholders to ensure a successful AMCEN presidency.   UNEP Director and Regional Representative for Africa, Rose Mwebaza, commended Ethiopia's leadership on environmental issues and expressed UNEP's full support for the AMCEN presidency. She also highlighted the importance of the partnership between UNEP and Ethiopia in addressing the triple planetary crisis: climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. The two parties also discussed a draft work plan for Ethiopia’s AMCEN Presidency in the coming two years and identified key priorities for the Presidency with the support of the AMCEN secretariat, as well as outstanding issues for effective engagement during the upcoming COP28, which will be held from November 30 to December 12, 2023. The meeting was a positive step towards strengthening the partnership between Ethiopia and UNEP and ensuring a successful AMCEN presidency, according to Ministry of Planning and Development. The African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN) was established in December 1985, following a conference of African ministers of environment held in Cairo, Egypt. Its mandate is to provide advocacy for environmental protection in Africa; to ensure that basic human needs are met adequately and in a sustainable manner; to ensure that social and economic development is realized at all levels; and to ensure that agricultural activities and practices meet the food security needs of the region.  

Addis Ababa, November 8/2023 (ENA): Ethiopia has announced the establishment of a national coalition to expedite the implementation of the Great Green Wall Initiative, designed to restore degraded lands on the continent. The Great Green Wall initiative is a large-scale African-led project aimed at combating desertification in the Sahel region, stretching from Senegal to Djibouti. The African-led initiative targets to restore the continent's 100 million hectares of currently degraded land, sequester 250 million tons of carbon, and create 10 million green jobs by 2030 through planting 8,000 kilometers of forests across the Sahel region. Ethiopia, as one of the 11 founding countries of the initiative, is implementing the initiative in 58 districts located in the Amhara, Tigray, and Afar regions. A stakeholders meeting was held this afternoon in Addis Ababa to review the performance of the Great Green Wall Initiative. On this occasion, Ethiopia announced the formation of a national coalition to expedite the implementation of the initiative. The coalition that incorporates key stakeholders is tasked with mobilizing resources for the implementation of the initiative in Ethiopia by creating a coordinated work system. Federal and regional officials and institutions, as well as international organizations and development partners, are among the members included in the coalition, it was learned. Ethiopian Forest Development Deputy Director-General, Motuma Tolera, said on the occasion that Ethiopia has been implementing the initiative with the objective of restoring 13 million hectares of land degraded due to various reasons. According to him, the country has been taking various measures, including the Green Legacy Initiative, to mitigate the impacts of climate change and the Great Green Wall initiative is consistent with Ethiopia’s ongoing national efforts in the area. Motuma called on international partners to provide the necessary support for Ethiopia’s efforts in implementing the initiative. African Union Great Green Wall Initiative coordinator, Elvis Pol said the initiative is instrumental in sustainably mitigating the challenges of climate changes in the continent. The coordinator added that Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to restore degraded lands are exemplary to other countries in Africa. He pledged AU’s continued support to Ethiopia in its endeavors to successfully implement the Great Green Wall Initiative.

Addis Ababa, November 1/2023 (ENA) Ethiopia is preparing to engage in all aspects of COP28, the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference, which will be held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from November 30 to December 12, 2023. Speaking at a Development Partners Group (DPG) meeting on Ethiopia's engagement at COP28, Director General of the Ethiopian Environment Authority, Getahun Garedew emphasized Ethiopia's commitment to multilateralism and its willingness to lead the international climate action process by example. In a speech made representing the Minister of Planning and Development, Fitsum Asefa, Getahun highlighted Ethiopia's ambitious vision for a net zero GHG emission and climate resilient prosperous nation by 2050 and its progress on implementing national climate initiatives, such as Green Legacy Initiative, Dine for Generations, and Yelemat Turufat, development campaign which focuses on nutritional opulence. Getahun also outlined Ethiopia's plans for COP28, including ministerial side events and meetings with potential partners and decision-makers. He called on DPG members to expand their support for climate action and to help translate Ethiopia's ambitious climate strategies and plans into action. Ethiopia's engagement at COP28 is expected to be a major focus of the event, according to Ministry of Planning and Development. The country is seen as a leader in climate action in Africa, and its ambitious plans for a net zero future are attracting global attention. Ethiopia's participation in COP28 is also seen as an opportunity for the country to share its experiences with other developing countries and to learn from best practices around the world. The DPG meeting was attended by representatives from governments, multilateral organizations, and civil society organizations. The presentation on Ethiopia's preparation for COP28 was presented by Getahun Garedew, Director General of the Ethiopian Environment Authority. Following Getahun’s presentation, there was a panel discussion on Ethiopia's preparation for COP28. The panel included representatives from the Ethiopian government and development partners. The panelists discussed a range of topics, including Ethiopia's key priorities for COP28, the country's progress on implementing its climate change commitments and the challenges and opportunities Ethiopia faces in its transition to a green economy as well as the role of development partners in supporting Ethiopia's climate action. The panelists agreed that Ethiopia has made significant progress on climate action in recent years. However, they also highlighted the need for continued support from development partners to help the country achieve its ambitious climate goals. The COP28 meeting is expected to be a major opportunity for Ethiopia to showcase its leadership on climate action and to secure the support it needs to transition to a green economy.

Addis Ababa, October 31/2023 (ENA)- Ethiopia is participating in the Global Pre- COP 28 Conference on Climate Change in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This year’s event has seen 70 ministers and over 100 delegations coming together in the UAE capital, more than double the normal number of participants for a Pre-COP. The participants of the two day meeting are expected to deliberate on fast tracking energy transition, deliver old promises and set the framework for a new deal on climate finance. They will also put nature, people, lives and livelihoods at the centre of climate action and underpinning everything with full inclusivity. The United Nations Climate Change Conferences are the world's highest decision-making body on climate issues and one of the largest international meetings in the world.  

Addis Ababa, October 25/2023 (ENA) Czech Republic reiterated commitment to support Ethiopia in its efforts to strengthen climate resilience, Ambassador Miroslav Kosek said. The ambassador made the remark at a panel discussion held in Addis Ababa on climate resilience in Ethiopia today. Ethiopia has been exerting efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change and create a climate resilience environment. One of the biggest and notable achievements so far registered in this regard is the Green Legacy Initiative through which billions of tree seedlings are being planted across the country. The panel, which was organized by Czech Development Cooperation and Austrian Development Cooperation, has discussed issues related to climate resilience in Ethiopia including policy approaches and programming to climate change and climate change adoption and mitigation measures. During the occasion, Ambassador of Czech Republic in Ethiopia, Miroslav Kosek said the topic of climate resilience is a subject that transcends borders, affecting the lives of people in every corner of the planet. Climate change is not a distant threat; it is the reality that already impacting the lives of millions, he added. Moreover, the ambassador said that Ethiopia, with its diverse ecosystems and unique vulnerabilities, is no exception to this harsh reality. The effects of climate change from prolonged droughts to erratic rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events pose a significant challenge to this nation's sustainable development and the well-being of its people, the ambassador elaborated. “Climate resilience is not just about adapting to the changes that are already upon us; it's about building a sustainable future for generations to come. These challenges underscore the urgency of our collective efforts to address climate resilience related issues, ” he underlined. Accordingly, the ambassador reiterated that in the sprit of cooperation, his country is committed to supporting Ethiopia in its efforts to strengthen climate resilience. “Our cooperation with Ethiopia in the realm of development dates back many decades. We are dedicated to supporting and empowering Ethiopia's economic potential, striving for sustainable and inclusive economic growth.” On other hand, the ambassador stated that Czech promotes comprehensive rural development, including agriculture, focusing on ensuring food security for the population, while protecting the landscape and managing land and forests sustainability. It also focuses on the sustainable management of natural resources, particularly water and ensuring access to safe and affordable drinking water, adequate sanitation and hygiene and facilities. Head of the Development Cooperation at Austria embassy in Addis Ababa, Doris Gebru-Zeilermayr said “We celebrate 30 years of Ethiopia as a priority country for fostering development cooperation. In these 30 years, I think we have accomplished good results,” she elaborated.   Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) Country Director, Okechekwu Dainel Ogbonnaya said on his part the climate change has resulted in extensive negative effects with consequential losses and damages.   The economic repercussions of climate change are found to be substantial in the continents. Africa, including Ethiopia is highly vulnerable to climate change, which is further exacerbated by the significant rates of land use change, population growth, and industrial development, he added. “We are in a climate crisis. What it means is that all hands need to be on deck for us to have a collective action to build resilience and sharing best practice examples that could help countries to come out of this crisis,” he stressed.    

Addis Ababa, October 25/2023 (ENA) US President Joe Biden on Tuesday awarded the National Medal of Science to Ethiopian-born Gebisa Ejeta, Distinguished Professor of Plant Breeding and Genetics for his outstanding contributions to plant genetics. The award is the highest recognition the nation bestows upon scientists. Ejeta studies sorghum, an ancient grain used widely as a food source for humans and livestock. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in its statement said “Our congratulations go out to Ethiopian-born Gebisa Ejeta, Distinguished Professor of Plant Breeding and Genetics, who was awarded by President Joe Biden the National Medal of Science yesterday.” His advocacy for science, policy, and institutions as key to economic development has lifted the fortunes of farmers and strengthened the souls of nations, it was mentioned during the award ceremony. He received the 2009 World Food Prize for his research in creating sorghum hybrids that are resistant to both severe drought and the destructive parasitic Striga weed. The resulting dramatic increase in sorghum production has helped feed hundreds of millions of people in sub-Saharan Africa.

Addis Ababa, October 19/2023 (ENA) Various efforts are being made to tackle challenges in wildlife conservation activities, according to the division of conservation at the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority. Authority Lead Executive Officer Desta Bedaso told ENA that incompatible development activities such as agriculture, road construction and mining through National parks, illegal domestic animals deployment in parks, illegal hunting and smuggling of wildlife, and climate change are among the challenges the sector faces. To tackle these problems, Environmental Crime Unit comprised of the pertinent stakeholders, including the Federal police, prosecutors, financial institutions and other security bodies has been established to enforce the law in protecting wildlife. A Joint Task Force is also established in respective regions of the country that consists of personnel from the sector and regional leaderships to enhance the effort of wildlife conservation, it was learned. Noting the lack of awareness about the significance of wildlife in the economy, Desta pointed out that awareness creation campaign is being carried out in collaboration with local respective media and others. Indicating the multiple challenges in the sector, he stressed the need for concerted efforts not only from local but also international stakeholders. In this respect, Ethiopia has signed different international agreements that enable it to work together in conserving and protecting wildlife, the lead executive said, adding that efforts are being made to implement the agreements. He also called on the general public as well as the pertinent bodies to meet their responsibilities in supporting the effort in the conservation of wildlife. Recall that the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority is taking part in a month-long exhibition that will remain open until November 9 at the Science Museum. Ethiopia has over 87 wild life protected areas, out of which 29 are national parks, 4 wildlife reserves, 4 sanctuary, 5 biosphere reserves, 7 community conservation areas, 33 control hunting areas, and 5 open hunting areas. The Simien Mountains National Park and the Bale Mountains National Park are registered by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). And most of the wild life protected areas are registered by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as they have fulfilled the criteria of registration.          

Addis Ababa, October 04/2023 (ENA) South Sudan Representative at the four-day Global Environment Facility Workshop in Addis Ababa, Wani Nelson has stressed the importance of replicating Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative and cooperating on combating the borderless impacts of climate change in East Africa. The Green Legacy is an initiative launched by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in June 2019 with a target of planting 20 billion seedlings within four years, rooted in a vision of building a green and climate-resilient Ethiopia. The country has so far planted billions of seedlings. Ethiopia has also been allocating a billion saplings every rainy season to countries in the East African region with the view to encouraging the countries to replicate the initiative and cooperate in combating the effects of climate change. The representative at the workshop told ENA that “Ethiopia is championing the planting of trees in the region.” According to him, South Sudan is one of the countries in the region replicating Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative. “We have also an initiative that aims to replicate what Ethiopia is doing by planting 100 million trees. We are working on the project,” Nelson revealed. Ethiopia has promised to support South Sudan in planting trees along the border in the neighboring states bordering Ethiopia, the expert added. The representative noted that cooperation between Ethiopia and South Sudan on the issue of climate change has a great impact as most of the communities are agro-pastoral. “Most of the states that are in neighboring Ethiopia are agro-pastoral communities and we see that planting trees restores the land and even the forest that has been destroyed.” Therefore, the expert said that planting trees along the border with Ethiopia will lead to forest regeneration and the actual restoration of the land to support agriculture as well as providing multi-forest products to the communities that live around this area. Nelson pointed out that climate change has no boundaries, and a lack of climate change in Ethiopia can also affect neighboring countries, including South Sudan, Kenya, and Uganda. “We need to collectively work together to restore degraded landscapes as one because for us to stop desertification we need to restore degraded landscapes and also watershed management.” The representative further stressed the need to replicate the Ethiopian initiative and cooperate in combating the borderless impacts of climate change. “We need to work to the other; or the challenges that are being faced in a certain country can easi together to be able to break these barriers of working in silos as individual countries by working together as a region to address the issues of climate change. When you work together, you can take experience from one country and apply thosely address that instead of passing through the same stages that the other country actually experienced.” The IGAD Regional Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan is what the East African countries should follow and align with their plans and strategies, he underscored. Encouraged by the first phase of the Green Initiative, Ethiopia has embarked on repeating the success by commencing the second phase this year. It also launched the National Adaptation Plan of Action in 2007 and the Ethiopian Program of Adaptation on Climate Change and Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions in 2010. Moreover, Ethiopia endorsed a Climate Resilient Green Economy (CRGE) strategy in 2011, with the objective of building a green and resilient economy.      

Addis Ababa, October 02/2023 (ENA) Global Environment Facility CEO, Carlos Manuel Rodriguez, urged every Least Developed Country to fully access its 20 million USD made available by the Least Developed Countries Fund for high-impact climate change solutions. The Global Environment Facility and Ministry of Planning and Development organized a four-day Climate Change Adaptation Sub-regional Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF) Programing and Strategy Workshop opened in Addis Ababa today. The workshop has attracted over 150 participants from 18 African countries. The Global Environment Facility has 46 LDC member countries which are expected to present national projects with high-impact solution for climate change challenges to get the allocated 20 million USD fund under its LDCF. Virtually Speaking During the opening of the workshop, Global Environment Facility CEO, Carlos Manuel Rodriguez said Least Developed Countries need easier access to finance to combat the extreme effects of climate change based on their priority. “The Global Environment Facility is trying to do its part by increasing the funding available through the LDCF. In the Global Environment Facility 8 period, we are doubling support to Least Developed Countries through the fund and we want every LCD to fully access its 20 million USD from the fund between now and 2026.” He added “you need easier access to multilateral climate funds and we fully agree with that. We will continue to simplify the review process for all Global Environment Facility funding, including the Least Developed Countries Fund.” Planning and Development State Minister, Sandokan Debebe on his part said Africa and other LDCs are at the forefront of experiencing the adverse effects of climate change and biodiversity losses.   “We (are) committed to address these challenges through national strategies and initiatives.” Africa is facing consecutive climate change induced events, including drought, flood and locust infestation, endangering lives and livelihood, hindering development and impeding progress towards development goals, he noted. “While developed countries’ commitment to provide financial and other means of implementation to developing nations has fall in short, we acknowledge and appreciate the effort of organizations like Global Environment Facility and other multilateral mechanisms in tackling these challenges with the limited resources.” Regardless of external support, the state minister said “we Africans must initiate our own homegrown environmental actions, tailored to our unique challenges.” He pointed out “Ethiopia is dedicated to combating global environmental degradation as evidenced by our constitution, various policies and strategies. Our ten years development plan places a strong emphasis on building climate-resilient and growing economy. We have also launched Ethiopia’s Long-term Low Emission and Climate-resilient Development Strategies to address environmental challenges while creating green jobs.” One exemplary initiative in this regard is the Green Legacy Initiative, launched in 2019 by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed aimed to plant billions of seedlings in cities and rural areas contributing to Ethiopia’s and Africa’s prosperity, he pointed out. “We encourage development partners and other fellow Africans to join us in scaling up these best practices,” the state minister urged. “Today’s workshop holds great significance in creating awareness and developing enhanced skills and knowledge for preparing and supporting the implementation of projects and programs to address priority adaptation needs,” Sandokan said. Global Environment Facility is a family of funds dedicated to confronting biodiversity loss, climate change, pollution, and strains on land and ocean health. Its grants, blended financing, and policy support help developing countries address their biggest environmental priorities and adhere international environmental conventions. The Global Environment Facility provides funding to assist developing countries in meeting the objectives of international environmental conventions. The facility serves as a "financial mechanism" to five conventions namely Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), and Minamata Convention on Mercury.  

Addis Ababa, October 01/2023 (ENA) A new global framework to reduce environmental risks from chemicals and waste was adopted at a UN conference on Saturday, with countries committing to phase out the most harmful ones. Agreed at the fifth International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM5), in Bonn, Germany, the Global Framework on Chemicals sets concrete targets and guidelines across the lifecycle of chemicals. Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), said “Everyone on this planet should be able to live and work without fear of falling sick or dying from chemical exposure. Nature, free from pollution, should be able to thrive and support humanity for millennia to come.” The framework provides a vision for a planet free of harm from chemicals and waste, for a safe, healthy and sustainable, the Directors stated. The framework is based around 28 targets, designed to improve responsible management of chemicals and waste. These targets also aim to establish stronger connections with other important global agendas, including climate change, biodiversity, human rights and health. Governments have committed to setting up policies and regulations aimed at reducing chemical pollution by 2030 as well as promoting safer alternatives. Industries also pledged to managing chemicals in a manner that reduces pollution and its adverse impacts, according to UN News. In addition to the Global Framework, the Conference also adopted the Bonn Declaration. The Declaration aims to “prevent exposure to harmful chemicals, and phase out the most harmful ones, where appropriate, and enhance the safe management of such chemicals where they are needed.” It also encourages countries to support the transition to circular economies, fostering the development of safe alternatives and substitutes for chemicals. This approach aims to not only safeguard health and the environment but also reduce waste and enhance recycling efforts. The Executive Director of UNEP urged all parties to start acting immediately. “The World Health Organization (WHO) tells us that direct chemical pollution of the air, land, water and workplace is causing two million deaths per year,” she said. “..I call on governments, the chemicals industry and everyone involved to go above and beyond what has been agreed to protect people and the planet upon which we all depend.”  

Addis Ababa, September 21/2023(ENA) Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Demeke Mekonnen said Ethiopia is committed to the full implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Demeke paid a courtesy call to the President of the 78th UN General Assembly, Dennis Francis, in New York and exchanged views at length on the current global agenda of the General Assembly. On the occasion, Demeke noted that the implementation of the SDG agenda deserves continuous attention and a series of considerations. Ethiopia remains committed to implementing the global agenda as it complements the ten-year national development plan, Demeke added. Moreover, he told the President of the General Assembly that Ethiopia has undertaken various projects , such as the Green Legacy, successfully. Francis also expressed his satisfaction over the extraordinary measures Ethiopia is undertaking to achieve the targets of the SDGs. He elaborated that UNGA will press for more funding to support the global south, including Africa, to succeed in achieving the SDGs. Similarly, Deneke met with the Director General of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), Gerd Muller at the sidelines of UN 78th General Assembly. Muller said that UNIDO is committed to support various development projects in Ethiopia. Ethiopia's peace, stability, and development are the priorities of UNIDO he said, adding that in October 2023, UNIDO will convene an international conference in Addis Ababa. Demeke thanked Muller for his personal initiatives and expressed the desire of Ethiopia to have strong working relations with UNIDO. The meeting took place on the margins of UNGA 78 in New York. Demeke also met with other senior government officials from Europe and the Middle East, according to Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  

Addis Ababa, September 21/2023(ENA) Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Demeke Mekonnen emphasized the importance of increased international cooperation to facilitate essential collaboration and financial support to develop efficient early warning systems at the national, regional, and global levels. The Deputy Prime Minister in his statement in New York, highlighted Ethiopia's substantial investment in adaptation measures through the Green Legacy Initiative. During the implementation segment of the Climate Ambition Summit, Demeke elaborated on the Ethiopian Early Warning Landscape, which is supported by changing policies as the scope, intensity, and frequency of disasters increase. This initiative, he explained, has successfully led to the planting of over 32 billion tree seedlings, yielding various benefits. He commended the Secretary-General's 'Early Warning for All' initiative, according to Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Moreover, he emphasized “the importance of increased international cooperation to facilitate essential collaboration and financial support to develop efficient early warning systems at the national, regional, and global levels.”

Addis Ababa, September 18/2023(ENA):- Through the united efforts of the Ethiopian people, we will bequeath strong and prosperous Ethiopia to future generation, Prime Minister Abiy said during a completion program of the second phase of the first year’s Green Legacy Initiative. The closing program of this year’s second phase of the Green Legacy initiative was held in the Jogo basin area, Lomi Woreda of East Shoa Zone, Oromia region in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy, all chief administrators of regional states and agriculture bureau heads. Speaking at the occasion, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stated that numerous forums on the impacts of climate change have been held at the global level. As regards mitigating the impacts of climate change and taking concrete actions, progress has not been made, he said, adding, however, Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative has been exemplary in mitigating climate change impacts and taking concrete actions. The premier also disclosed that 7.5 billion tree seedlings have so far been planted this year in the second phase of the Green Legacy Initiative. Combined with the two phases of the Green Legacy initiative, Ethiopia is set to plant 50 billion saplings in four years, Abiy elaborated. For instance, Abiy mentioned that the Jogo basin area was barren areas four years ago, but now the area is covered with green plants. The prime minister further mentioned that the local communities have contributed a lot for this success and they are now engaged in beekeeping activities following the green development in the area. He also explained that the massive green development activities that Ethiopia has embarked on are helping the nation to prevent soil erosion, increase rainfall and maintaining ecosystems. Moreover, Abiy said green development is becoming a big economic source in Ethiopia. He further stressed the need for prioritizing fruit, coffee, tea and other market-oriented green development activities. PM Abiy also expressed the appreciation of his government to the people of Ethiopia for their immense contributions and achievements in the Green Legacy initiatives during the past years. Mentioning the successes that are being recorded in Green Legacy initiative, the construction of Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), wheat farming and in Lemat Trufat, Abiy urged the public to replicate the successes in all sectors. He also stated that effective activities are being carried out with the cooperation of the government and the people, ensuring the inevitability of Ethiopia's journey to prosperity journey. The prime minister also underscored that there will be no earthly power that can stop Ethiopia's journey of the ongoing far-reaching reform to ensure its prosperity. “We will bequeath a strong and prosperous Ethiopia to the next generation with the united efforts of its people.” It is to be recalled that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed launched the second phase of the Green Legacy Initiative in June 2023 in the Afar region under the theme: “Let’s plant the future today.” Combined with the 25 billion seedlings planted in the last four years, Ethiopia will become the first country to create forests by planting 50 billion saplings by the end of the second phase of the green initiative, it was indicated. According to the plan, 60 percent of the saplings will be used for agroforestry, 35 percent for forest cover and 5 percent for urban ornaments.  

Addis Ababa, September 18/2023(ENA):- At the completion of this year’s season the second phase of the Green Legacy initiative, we achieved more than our intended target, i.e. 7.5 billion saplings have been planted nationwide, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed twitted. The completion program of the second phase of the Green Legacy Initiative was held in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and chief administrators of all regional states as well as head of agricultural bureaus at Lume district of East Showa Zone, Oromia region. The premier added the government honors the hard work and perseverance shown by our people. It is to be recalled that Prime Minister Abiy launched the second phase of the Green Legacy Initiative in the first week of June this year in Afar region under the theme "Let’s Plant Our Future Today". In his remark, Abiy emphasized that the successes being registered in Green Legacy initiative and other sectors demonstrate the inevitability of Ethiopia's journey to prosperity. He stated that 7.5 billion saplings have been planted in the first year's Green Legacy Initiative, and some 32.5 billion saplings have been planted since the start of the initiative. He also pointed out that the nation has set a target of reaching 50 billion saplings in the first and second phase of the Green Legacy initiative. Abiy underscored that there will be no earthly force in the future that can stop Ethiopia's progress and prosperity. The nation will have attained a target of planting 25 billion saplings by the end of the second phase of Green Legacy which runs for four years. According to the plan, 60 percent of the saplings will be used for agroforestry, 35 percent for forest cover and 5 percent for urban ornaments, it was learned.  

Addis Ababa, September 18/2023 (ENA) The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has registered the Bale Mountains National Park located in Oromia region. Bale Mountains National Park has been registered as one of the world’s natural heritages today at the 45th extended session of the World Heritage Committee being underway in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. UNESCO inscribed Bale Mountains National Park as Ethiopia’s second natural heritage and 11th in the world. The Bale Mountains National Park, founded in 1962, is located in the Oromia National Regional State 400 km from the capital in southeastern Ethiopia. The site is also home to National Park Lakes created in various ways containing wetlands and volcanic remains with spectacular landscape making it one of the ideal tourist destinations.   The park is endowed with several species of plants, mammals, and birds, among which many are endemic to the park. It is to be recalled that the Gedeo Cultural Landscape has been registered on Sunday as world heritages at the 45th extended session of the World Heritage Committee. The Gedeo Cultural Landscape lies along the eastern edge of the Main Ethiopian Rift, on the steep escarpments of the Ethiopian highlands. An area of agroforestry, it utilizes multilayer cultivation with large trees sheltering indigenous enset, the main food crop, under which grow coffee and other shrubs. Within the cultivated mountain slopes are sacred forests traditionally used by local communities for rituals associated with the Gedeo religion, and along the mountain ridges are dense clusters of megalithic monuments, which came to be revered by the Gedeo and cared for by their elders. The registration of the two sites as world heritages by UNESCO is expected to help strengthen Ethiopia’s tourism development in addition to appropriately protect the heritages.  

Addis Ababa, September 16/2023(ENA):- Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Ethiopia’s Green Legacy program is not only stabilizing the ecosystem but also enhancing agroforestry. These coffee trees planted three years ago as part of our Green Legacy are bearing fruit, PM Abiy twitted today.

Addis Ababa September 14/2023(ENA):- The COP28 Presidency announced the selection of 100 delegates for the International Youth Climate Delegate Program, Embassy of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Addis Ababa said. The UAE which is the host of the COP28 climate change conference this year conducted a deliberation in collaboration with the African Union Commission under the theme “Elevating the Role of Youth in Climate Negotiations," UAE Embassy in Addis Ababa said in a press release sent to ENA.   The press release also said that the discussion is aimed at discussing efforts towards ensuring effective engagement of the youth leading up to COP 28, and more specifically empowering youth to play an elevated role in climate decision-making. The discussion intends to enhance the participation of the African Union member states in the Climate Conference, through the development of a summary paper with key recommendations and perspectives, it added. In this case, Talal Al Azeezi, Charge d’affaires at the UAE Embassy in Addis Ababa said that the COP28 Presidency announced the selection of 100 delegates for the International Youth Climate Delegate Program. The selection has included 6 youth with disabilities, 10 youth from conflict affected areas, and 12 indigenous people, he indicated. Yabtsega Getachew, a climate justice advocate, has been selected to represent Ethiopia. The ambassador added that the “program is the largest initiative that will build youth skills, capacity, knowledge, and networks, and fully fund them to attend COP28, as well as provide a model for the COP process on youth inclusion.” He also highlighted UAE’s efforts towards ensuring the inclusion of climate action and youth engagement in all development strategies. UAE aspired to affirm the vital importance of climate collaboration, and share perspectives as the host of COP 28, with the aim of linking perspectives with the African Union’s and youth aspirations, in a manner that will be inclusive, transparent, and results-oriented, the release stated. Denmark's Ambassador to Ethiopia and the African Union, Kira Smith, on her part stressed the importance of meaningful youth involvement in climate negotiations. The ambassador also mentioned Denmark’s efforts towards supporting the youth, particularly mentioning the Youth Delegate Program in which every year eight Danish youth delegates are selected to represent the Danish youth at the UN as well as other multilateral forums. Nyambe Harsen, Director of Sustainable Environment and Blue Economy at the African Union Commission, placed focus on the role of the AU in engaging youth in climate action, and the youth-led efforts clearly demonstrated during the African Climate Summit. This discussion on youth in climate negotiations was conducted in the presence of various diplomatic missions including the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Egypt, UK, US, Switzerland, Qatar, Chad, and Morocco as well as think tanks, technical climate experts among others.