Addis Ababa, September 8, 2026 (ENA)—The Nile downstream countries, Egypt and Sudan, should have shared the cost of Ethiopia’s large-scale watershed restoration and afforestation efforts because they have been directly benefiting from the improved watershed conditions, a senior transboundary water expert said. “Downstream countries are reaping benefits of massive watershed restoration programs in Ethiopia. Under normal circumstances these countries who are enjoying the benefits of such undertaking should have shared the cost of these interventions,” Fekahmed Negash, a senior transboundary water expert, noted. He added that a well designed and implemented watershed management activity in Ethiopia is beneficial to Ethiopia and downstream countries of Egypt and Sudan as well as to the international community.   The senior water expert explained that effective watershed management reduces soil erosion from agricultural, grazing and degraded lands, limiting the amount of sediment carried downstream. Such sediment can degrade water quality, reduce reservoir storage capacity, disrupt power generation, damage irrigation canals and roads, and undermine agricultural production. By contrast well-preserved watersheds improve rainfall infiltration, slow surface runoff, retain moisture in vegetation and help regulate river flows, thereby reducing flooding, he elaborated. Fekahmed said these gains are not limited to Ethiopia since downstream countries also benefit from reduced sedimentation, better water quality, more regulated flows and lower risks to water infrastructure. “Downstream countries are reaping benefits of massive watershed restoration programs in Ethiopia,” he reiterated, arguing that the principle of shared benefits should also mean shared responsibility for financing such interventions. He criticized what he described as Egypt’s opposition to Ethiopia’s watershed management and afforestation efforts. According to Fekahmed, Egypt has objected on the grounds that increased infiltration from tree planting could reduce downstream flows and that more regulated river flows could give Ethiopia greater room to use its water resources.   “Egypt is known to oppose watershed management particularly afforestation in Ethiopia. They oppose such extraordinary efforts with a pretext against unfounded claims of reduced flow to downstream due to increased infiltration facilitate by trees planting and regulated flow that would give Ethiopia an opportunity to use its water resources.” He rejected the argument saying watershed restoration should instead be seen as a basin-wide investment that strengthens the sustainability of the Nile system. “The protection of the watershed, particularly the water towers, should be given utmost emphasis by the basin’s states and the international community if the sustainable utilization of the waters of the Nile Basin is required.” Fekahmed also linked Ethiopia’s restoration efforts to the broader challenge of climate change. Watershed protection can help ease flooding and drought while improving resilience to increasingly erratic water flows. He noted that the benefits extend beyond the Nile Basin through carbon sequestration and other climate-related gains making watershed restoration an issue of both regional and international concern. The senior water expert argued that Ethiopia’s restoration drive should not be viewed only as a domestic environmental project but as an investment that generates benefits for downstream countries and the wider international community. He also called for a shift from confrontation to cooperation in addressing the Nile Basin’s water challenges. “Military prowess does and will not make water flow downstream,” Fekahmed stressed, arguing that sustainable water security depends on understanding the interests, concerns and fears of basin countries and pursuing genuine cooperation. Cooperation in water management, energy trade and regional economic integration would provide a more durable basis for water security than military pressure or confrontational diplomacy, he emphasized.   “Military threat and confrontational diplomatic maneuvers in ensuring water security is unnecessary and at most counterproductive,” the senior water expert said. Fekahmed stated that Ethiopia’s experience shows that investments in watershed restoration can generate cross-border benefits, and that downstream beneficiaries and the international community should recognize their responsibility to support such efforts. The Green Legacy Initiative, he added, offers an important framework for strengthening watershed protection, improving the sustainability of the Nile Basin and building resilience to climate change. Fekahmed has extensive experience in transboundary water management and Nile Basin affairs. He previously served as Executive Director of the Eastern Nile Technical Regional Office (ENTRO).

(September 8, 2026, Addis Ababa) — Ethiopia’s strategic self-reliance in defense manufacturing and continued development momentum serves as the firm bedrock of the nation’s peace, stability, and long-term economic growth, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said today. PM Abiy made the remarks in a social media post on September 8, Pagume 3 in the Ethiopian calendar, observed as the ''Day of Resilience'' during the five-day bridge period leading into the Ethiopian New Year. Highlighting the pivotal role of the armed forces in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty, Abiy said national progress is inseparable from the dedication of the military. “When we think of Ethiopia, it is impossible to envision our national journey toward greatness without first honoring our courageous security forces, who stand resilient day and night to guard the country against adversaries,” PM Abiy said. “It is for this reason that on this ''Day of Resilience'', we commemorate with the highest national honor the historic sacrifices of our heroes, who laid down their lives for the continuity and sovereignty of our nation.” Underscoring the advances achieved in domestic defense technology, Abiy said local capabilities are strengthening national security. “Today, driven by its own knowledge and the capability of its children, our nation has succeeded in manufacturing advanced technological assets, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), modern armored military vehicles, heavy weaponry, artillery, and ammunition, within its defense industries,” Abiy said. The Prime Minister concluded by affirming that this self-reliance will support the country’s pursuit of holistic growth and stability. “As this strategic self-reliance serves as the firm bedrock of our people’s peace and comprehensive economic growth, we shall secure Ethiopia’s sustainable prosperity by reaffirming our national resilience through tangible development and strong defense capability,” he said.

(September 7, 2026, Addis Ababa) — A delegation representing Ethiopia is participating in the third BRICS Sherpa or Sous-Sherpa Meeting, hosted in New Delhi under India’s BRICS Chairship in 2026, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” Ethiopia attaches importance to the strategic deliberations aimed at advancing collective efforts toward a more effective, inclusive, equitable, and balanced international order. The meeting is expected to advance preparations for the BRICS Leaders’ Declaration, which is scheduled to be adopted at the BRICS Summit in New Delhi on 12–13 September 2026.

Addis Ababa, September 3, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia plans to expand its clean energy generation capacity and increase electricity export to countries across the East African Power Pool and beyond, President Taye Atske-Selassie said. Addressing the Annual Investment Meeting (AIM) in Dubai, President Taye identified clean energy as the first of five strategic investment priorities for Africa He described the endeavor as a critical driver of industrial transformation and sustainable economic growth. He urged African countries to accelerate investment in solar, wind, geothermal and hydropower while diversifying their energy mix to meet the growing demands of industrialization. The president cited clean-energy developments in countries including Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Ghana and Kenya, stressing that expanded and reliable energy supplies are essential to Africa’s industrial and economic transformation. For Ethiopia, he said, renewable energy represents far more than a source of electricity. “Clean energy is not simply a national asset but a foundation for rapid economic growth,” President Taye said.   President Taye said Ethiopia has an estimated 60,000 megawatts of renewable energy potential and is targeting 15,000 megawatts of generation capacity by 2030, with plans to expand electricity supplies across the East African Power Pool and beyond. The country also plans to expand electricity supplies to neighboring countries through the East African Power Pool and beyond, strengthening its role in regional energy integration. President Taye noted that Ethiopia’s relatively affordable and reliable electricity supply is increasingly attracting investment in advanced digital infrastructure. Nearly 1,000 megawatts has been allocated to data-center and mining enterprises, he said, underscoring the growing link between renewable energy, digital infrastructure and technology investment. Beyond energy, the president outlined agriculture, critical minerals, infrastructure and strategic corridors, and human capital as four additional priorities for Africa’s investment and economic transformation.   He highlighted Ethiopia’s transformation from a net wheat importer into Africa’s largest wheat producer, attributing the progress to expanded irrigation, improved agricultural technologies and the adoption of heat-resistant seed varieties. He also pointed to Ethiopia’s growing production of coffee, avocado, sesame and livestock, emphasizing opportunities in agro-processing, value addition and exports. On critical minerals, President Taye called for greater African ownership and value creation from the continent’s abundant resources, including gold, lithium, cobalt and iron ore. He cited Ethiopia’s position as the world’s sixth-largest tantalum producer and stressed that mineral development should be sustainable, inclusive and structured to ensure greater benefits for resource-producing countries. Infrastructure and strategic corridors, he said, are equally critical to Africa’s economic integration, particularly as the continent seeks to strengthen physical and digital connectivity.   President Taye highlighted Ethiopian Airlines as a major connectivity platform and pointed to Ethiopia’s 12.5 billion USD Bishoftu International Airport, currently under construction, which is expected to handle up to 110 million passengers and about four million tonnes of cargo annually. Such investments, he said, can strengthen Africa’s trade, logistics, tourism and investment links with global markets. Human capital was identified as the fifth priority, with President Taye urging African countries to turn their young populations into engines of innovation, entrepreneurship and economic growth through greater investment in skills and technology. He highlighted Ethiopia’s “5 Million Coders” initiative and thanked the United Arab Emirates for its support for the program.

(September 7, 2026, Addis Ababa) — Guided by the Medemer policy framework and strategic development plans, Ethiopia is striving for holistic prosperity by leveraging its collective national strength to overcome historical challenges and transform them into sustainable growth opportunities, the Government Communication Service (GCS) said. In a social media statement, the GCS noted key national infrastructure developments, saying, “Ethiopian Airlines, which has carried Ethiopia’s flag across the world for decades, is undertaking forward-looking transformations such as the Bishoftu International Airport project.” In addition, existing and new tourism destinations are being expanded, agriculture is moving away from dependence on rainfall to generate rural and urban jobs, and the government is working around the clock to diversify renewable energy sources, including hydro, wind, solar, geothermal, and nuclear power. Urban centers are being revitalized, integrated infrastructure is expanding, and transport and logistics capacity is strengthening, helping to solidify Ethiopia’s role as a regional renewable energy hub while maximizing mineral resources for future generations. Strong foundations signaling Ethiopia’s resurgence and accelerated growth are being laid, with citizens demonstrating unwavering commitment to institutionalizing democratic governance and realizing national aspirations. The GCS statement emphasized that public participation in the 7th General Election, growing annual involvement in the Green Legacy Initiative, and the choice of National Dialogue to resolve political differences reflect shared confidence in the government’s development vision. According to the Ministry’s social media post, “Solid foundations for Ethiopia’s holistic prosperity are being laid through the building of democratic systems, the pursuit of a multi-sectoral economy, the adaptation of modern urban lifestyles to rural settings, the expansion of renewable energy supplies, and the modernization of transport infrastructure,” marking the core significance of observing Pagume 2 as the “Day of Renewal.”

Addis Ababa, September 7, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s national resurgence has decisively moved from vision to reality, driven by transformative development projects and sweeping economic reforms, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said today. PM Abiy made the remarks in his X post on September 7, Pagume 2 in the Ethiopian calendar, observed as the Day of Renewal during the five-day bridge period leading into the Ethiopian New Year. Highlighting the tangible shift in the country’s trajectory, PM Abiy said the nation is actively living its progress. “Yesterday we declared our rise; today, we live it,” he said. “Our resurgence is no longer a vision; it is carved into the GERD, the corridor developments, the Bishoftu Airport mega project, and our bold macroeconomic reforms.” The Prime Minister said these landmark projects are designed to deliver immediate benefits to the public. “This transformation directly elevates daily life, bringing seamless urban mobility, vast employment opportunities, and a grand vision that anchors bright hope for our children’s tomorrow,” PM Abiy noted. Underscoring the permanence of these achievements, he said the nation’s momentum cannot be reversed. “The foundation is laid, the momentum is unstoppable, and there is absolutely no turning back,” he declared. Concluding his message, he reaffirmed the government’s resolve to maintain its strategic trajectory. “In this historic journey of resurgence we have begun, we will accelerate our development momentum to elevate Ethiopia’s rise to sustainable prosperity,” PM Abiy said. “Ethiopia builds, rises, and conquers!”

Addis Ababa, September 7, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s Medemer State is more self-conscious and determined about the country’s future than previous governments, with a clearer understanding of the direction it wants to take the nation, Education Minister Prof. Berhanu Nega said. Speaking to ENA, the minister said the changes Ethiopia has experienced over the past seven to eight years represent a significant departure from previous political periods. “One of the identifying markers of this period compared to the past is that this is a much more self-conscious government, a government that knows where it wants to go, where it wants to take the country,” he said. According to the minister, the government increasingly recognizes that Ethiopia cannot continue to contend with poverty, economic weakness and persistent internal conflicts, including ethnic and religious tensions. He said the government is working to reduce corruption and promote hard work as essential elements of national development, stressing that Ethiopia, as an ancient civilization, needs to change its approach to development. The minister also said the government is increasingly conscious of the rapidly changing global environment, which is being shaped by emerging conflicts among major powers, technological transformations and shifts in the international system. National consciousness is also growing, with Ethiopians increasingly recognizing that the country has fallen behind and needs to accelerate its development, he noted. He further recalled that Ethiopia had for a long time been preoccupied with internal differences and conflicts, diverting attention from the need to catch up with the rest of the world. “The point of demarcation for this government, as much as I see it since the change, is this acute awareness that we have slept for a long time,” he said. The minister also said the recent National Dialogue has also helped address some of Ethiopia’s longstanding political questions, particularly issues concerning the type of political system needed to build a strong, resilient, capable and prosperous nation. At the same time, he acknowledged that Ethiopia remains in a period of transition, with political challenges and mistakes inherited from the past continuing to influence the present. Prof. Berhanu said the prolonged emphasis on ethnicity in politics has contributed to conflicts over the past two to three decades, arguing that Ethiopia’s political system needs to move away from highly ethnicized politics. “We have to start to think of each other as members of the same country, as citizens,” he stressed. He said a growing sense of shared citizenship is emerging, although the political outlook of the past has not completely disappeared. “We are in that transition period where this struggle between the old politics and the new emerging ones are, to a certain degree, fighting for supremacy,” he said. According to the minister, Ethiopia’s future requires greater emphasis on shared national interests, economic development, technical knowledge and the country’s moral standing. The professor called on Ethiopians to increasingly see themselves as citizens who share a common future and fate, saying such a shift would help the country advance toward greater prosperity, resilience and national development.

By Staff Writer Sept. 4, 2026 (ENA) Ethiopia closed the 2018 Ethiopian calendar year with a week marked by accelerating economic transformation, expanding digital ambitions and a more assertive focus on strategic national interests. From agriculture and exports to digitalization, housing finance, water resources and maritime access, developments during the final days of the year pointed to an emerging national agenda centered on productive capacity, economic resilience, strategic autonomy and deeper integration into regional and global markets. The five-day Pagume programme provided a platform for the government to take stock of progress in economic reform, agriculture, infrastructure, renewable energy, technology and national resilience while outlining priorities for the year ahead. The figures presented during the week offered concrete indicators of the scale of this transformation. More than 33.5 million hectares were cultivated during the 2025/26 fiscal year, producing more than 1.85 billion quintals of agricultural output, according to the Ministry of Agriculture. Livestock exports generated 128.3 million USD, up from about $95 million previously, an increase of more than 35 percent. Ethiopia also earned more than 11.2 billion USD in export revenues during the 2018 Ethiopian fiscal year and has set a target of 13.4 billion USD for 2026/27, reflecting an intensified drive to expand exports, generate foreign exchange and move toward higher-value production. Taken together, these developments signal an economy seeking not only faster growth but also a stronger productive base capable of reducing import dependence, easing foreign-exchange pressures and strengthening resilience to external shocks. Economic Transformation: From Reform to Productive Capacity Economic transformation emerged as the defining theme of the week. As Ethiopia prepared to enter a new calendar year, the Government Communication Service used Pagume to highlight what it described as progress in macroeconomic stability, revenue mobilization, exports, agricultural and industrial production, renewable energy and major infrastructure development. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed placed these achievements within a broader national sovereignty and self-reliance agenda, pointing to rising wheat production, expanding domestic manufacturing and initiatives such as Yelemat Trufat (Bounty of the Basket) and Made in Ethiopia. The direction reflects Ethiopia’s ongoing Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda, which seeks to address macroeconomic imbalances, strengthen the foreign-exchange market, improve debt sustainability and create greater space for private-sector investment. The emerging model is therefore about more than growth. It is increasingly about producing more, processing more, exporting more and competing more effectively in global markets. Agriculture: A Pillar of Economic Sovereignty Agriculture remains central to Ethiopia’s transformation because it links food security, employment, rural incomes, exports and industrial development. The reported cultivation of more than 33.5 million hectares and agricultural output exceeding 1.85 billion quintals underscore the scale of the sector. The government is seeking to raise productivity through irrigation, mechanization, improved seeds, fertilizer production, livestock development and agro-processing, with the longer-term goal of moving from predominantly subsistence-oriented agriculture toward a more productive and commercially integrated sector. Wheat production has acquired particular strategic importance. Expanding domestic wheat output can reduce import requirements while conserving scarce foreign exchange, making agricultural productivity increasingly relevant to the country’s broader economic sovereignty agenda. Livestock exports offer another avenue for value creation. Ethiopia’s 128.3 million USD in livestock export earnings during the 2018 Ethiopian fiscal year highlights the potential to expand foreign-exchange earnings through greater processing capacity and higher-value meat and livestock products. However, sustaining these gains will require continued investment in irrigation, rural infrastructure, market access, productivity, food-system resilience and household purchasing power. Digital Transformation Opens a New Economic Frontier Digitalization is rapidly becoming another pillar of Ethiopia’s economic transformation. Ethio Telecom’s 2026/27 business plan targets 295 billion birr in revenue, a 36.7 percent increase from the previous year. It also aims to expand its customer base to 96.2 million and mobile data and internet users to more than 60 million. The ambition goes beyond telecommunications. Under its three-year “Next Horizon: Digital & Beyond” strategy, Ethio Telecom is seeking to expand into digital financial services, cloud computing, enterprise solutions, digital platforms and artificial intelligence. The shift reflects a broader national effort to use digital infrastructure to expand financial inclusion, support entrepreneurship, modernize public services and connect a growing population to the digital economy. Housing Finance Signals Deeper Financial-Sector Reform Another significant development was the agreement between the National Bank of Ethiopia and the International Finance Corporation to establish a dedicated Mortgage Refinance Company. The institution will have 100 billion Birr in capital, with the IFC committing at least 200 million USD. The initiative is intended to ease liquidity constraints in the banking system and expand mortgage financing. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who witnessed the signing of the Framework for Cooperation, said the partnership would support the government’s ambition to provide 1.5 million affordable and dignified homes while increasing private-sector participation. Beyond housing, expanded mortgage finance could stimulate construction, employment, financial intermediation and household asset formation, while contributing to the development of Ethiopia’s financial sector. Strategic Water Resources and Abay/Nile Perhaps the week’s most consequential strategic debate centered on Ethiopia’s water resources and the equitable utilization of the Abay/Nile. Fekahmed Negash, Chairperson of the Advisory Team on Transboundary Water and GERD at the Ministry of Water and Energy, highlighted the substantial evaporation losses experienced by downstream reservoirs. In an interview with ENA, Fekahmed said downstream reservoirs could lose up to 20 billion cubic meters of water annually through evaporation, with the Aswan High Dam alone accounting for an estimated 15–16 billion cubic meters in annual losses. He argued that Ethiopia’s highland geography provides favorable conditions for water storage, particularly in deep and relatively cool gorges where evaporation can be minimized. According to Fekahmed, highland storage can also provide wider benefits, including sediment retention, longer downstream dam lifespans, flood regulation and opportunities for cascade hydropower generation. He called for a unified basin-wide framework through which Nile countries could maximize the river’s shared benefits. The discussion comes as Ethiopia continues to emphasize the principle of equitable and reasonable utilization of transboundary water resources, while presenting water development as essential to agriculture, energy generation and economic growth. Historical Equity Enters Abay Debate The strategic water debate also took on a historical and economic dimension. Former State Minister for Irrigation Development Birhanu Lenjiso argued that Ethiopia has legitimate grounds to seek redress for historical economic losses, foregone development opportunities and longstanding inequities in Abay/Nile utilization. His argument adds a development perspective to Ethiopia’s longstanding position that the Nile should be utilized equitably and in a manner that supports the development aspirations of all basin countries. The debate increasingly extends beyond water itself to questions of energy security, food production, economic development and regional cooperation. Red Sea Access: Economic Imperative Meets Strategic Interest Ethiopia’s pursuit of reliable access to the Red Sea also remained prominent during the week. Education Minister Professor Berhanu Nega described access to the sea as a logical, historical and economic imperative, linking the issue to Ethiopia’s demographic realities, economic interests and national security. For a large landlocked economy, maritime connectivity has direct implications for the cost and competitiveness of imports and exports, foreign-exchange flows, supply-chain resilience and access to international markets. Ethiopia’s maritime ambitions are therefore increasingly intertwined with its broader economic strategy. Water resources, energy, trade corridors and maritime connectivity are emerging as interconnected components of the country’s long-term economic and strategic outlook. Regional Connectivity and Digital Logistics Advance The same emphasis on economic integration was evident in Ethiopia’s engagement with the Horn of Africa Initiative Trade Ministers Meeting, which highlighted the importance of trade corridors, connectivity and trade-facilitating infrastructure. Meanwhile, Ethiopian Shipping and Logistics launched a digital customer self-service platform aimed at modernizing port and cargo operations. The platform provides services including cargo tracking, booking, demurrage management, digital payments and complaints handling, helping reduce reliance on paper-based procedures and streamline import-export operations. The move illustrates how Ethiopia’s economic transformation is increasingly extending beyond production to the digital modernization of trade and logistics. Pagume and the Narrative of National Revival The government’s decision to organize Pagume under the theme “Ethiopia’s Revival” was significant both economically and politically. Rather than treating the final five days of the Ethiopian calendar simply as a period of celebration, the programme served as a national stocktaking exercise and a platform for presenting a forward-looking development narrative. The five days focused respectively on breakthrough, revival, resilience, diversity, and the future and digital transformation. The framework sought to connect individual achievements and projects to a broader national story centered on renewal, resilience and economic self-reliance. Looking Ahead: From Growth to Strategic Autonomy The final week of the 2018 Ethiopian calendar year offered a snapshot of a country seeking to redefine the foundations of its economic future. Agricultural expansion is being linked to food security and industrialization. Domestic manufacturing is being promoted to reduce import dependence. Digitalization is opening new economic frontiers. Housing finance is being connected to financial-sector development. Export expansion is becoming increasingly important for foreign-exchange generation. And water resources and maritime connectivity are being framed as strategic pillars of long-term economic security. The challenge now is implementation. Production gains and ambitious targets will have their greatest impact if they translate into higher household incomes, more jobs, stronger private investment, improved food security and greater international competitiveness. Ethiopia’s economic transformation is consequently becoming broader than a conventional growth agenda. It is increasingly a project to build the productive capacity, infrastructure, technology, financial systems and regional connectivity needed to sustain growth and strengthen strategic autonomy. As Ethiopia enters a new year, the emerging direction is clear: produce more, add more value, export more, digitize faster and deepen regional economic integration. If sustained and effectively implemented, this trajectory could reshape not only Ethiopia’s domestic economy but also its strategic position in the Horn of Africa and its role in the wider African and global economy.

Addis Ababa, September 6, 2026 (ENA)—Cameroon and Ethiopia have over half-a-century long diplomatic relations that should be expanded and deepen in the future, Ambassador Ewumbue-Monono told ENA. The Cameroonian ambassador to Ethiopia stated that "even if the diplomatic relations between the two countries have been very positive in the past 60 years, the most important thing is the future." Ambassador Ewumbue-Monono stated that “we have always been cooperating in international organizations. So we hope that the most important thing is not the 60 years that have passed, but the most important thing is the future.’’   He noted that historically Ethiopia and Cameroon have been cooperating at international organizations. Speaking on the sidelines of the event in commemoration of the late pioneer female Ethiopian Ambassador Konjit Sinegiorgis who chaired the group of African ambassadors to the OAU in 1995, Ambassador Churchill Ewumbue-Monono said there was a lot of cooperation between the two countries. In "1995 when Ethiopia was chairing the OAU, Ambassador Konjit was the chair of the group of African diplomats and the group of African ambassadors to the OAU." And after Ambassador Konjit, in the following year, it was Cameroon that was chairing the OAU. "So there was a lot of cooperation between Ambassador Konjit and the Cameroonian ambassador at the time."   In the year that followed, bilateral relations between the two countries include wide-ranging areas, including people-to-people ties, business to business, and sports, among others, the Ambassador elaborated. ''There have been a number of Ethiopian business missions to Cameroon and Cameroonian business missions to Ethiopia." But the most important thing is the future, even if the two countries have been very positive throughout the 60 years diplomatic relation, he stressed.

Addis Ababa, September 6, 2026 (ENA)—Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh affirmed that Ethiopia has been registering significant results and steadily moving toward greater prosperity through comprehensive economic transformation, increased productivity and expanded domestic production. He made the remarks as Ethiopia marked the first day of Pagume, the country’s 13th month, as Day of Break Through. The event was attended by senior government officials, representatives of partner organizations and private sector stakeholders. DPM Temesgen said the macroeconomic reforms and financial sector modernization measures undertaken in recent years have strengthened the foundations of the Ethiopian economy and created a more conducive environment for sustainable growth. Ethiopia has also made significant progress toward food sovereignty, particularly through increased agricultural production and the adoption of modern farming practices, he stated.   The Deputy Prime Minister also noted that the use of improved seeds, cluster farming and modern agricultural technologies has increased the production of meat, rice, maize, milk and other agricultural products, strengthening the country’s capacity to meet domestic food needs through local production. “Ethiopia is firmly moving from a dependency on imports toward becoming a producer capable of meeting domestic demand and competing in international markets,” he underscored. The country's economic transformation agenda has increasingly focused on shifting the economy from import dependence toward stronger domestic production, productivity and export competitiveness. The government has been implementing macroeconomic reforms alongside measures aimed at improving agricultural output, expanding manufacturing, modernizing the financial sector and increasing the efficiency of public institutions. The Deputy Prime Minister also mentioned the progress in manufacturing and agro-industry, citing “Made in Ethiopia” (Ethiopia Tamrt) movement and industrial parks as key drivers of substitution of imported goods with locally produced products.   Progress in the mining sector has likewise created new opportunities for economic growth and exports by promoting the processing of natural resources into higher value products, he added. According to the Deputy Prime Minister, efforts to improve transparency and efficiency in revenue collection and customs administration through electronic filing, electronic payment systems and the digitalization of procedures have also contributed to improving tax compliance. Production should be the idea, strategy and goal, he said, stressing that projects and activities that fail to create value or produce tangible results represent a waste of resources. The deputy prime minister further emphasized the importance of digitalizing government services to improve efficiency, enhance service delivery, reduce reliance on manual procedures and curb corruption. “Ethiopia is changing, developing and moving towards greater prosperity,” he added, expressing appreciation to Ethiopians, development partners and other stakeholders for their contributions to the country’s transformation.   DPM Temesgen also called for continued commitment to productivity, domestic production and the efficient utilization of resources to sustain Ethiopia’s development and advance its prosperity journey. Ethiopia has been pursuing a broad economic reform program aimed at addressing structural challenges, improving macroeconomic stability and strengthening the country’s productive capacity. The reform agenda has included measures in the foreign exchange market, monetary and financial sectors, taxation and public finance, with the broader objective of creating a more competitive economy and attracting greater investment. Agriculture remains a major pillar of Ethiopia’s economy and a central component of the country’s efforts to achieve food sovereignty and expand exports.

Addis Ababa, September 5, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia’s quest for sovereign access to the sea is inseparable to the nation's long-term survival and holds the potential to foster mutual benefits across the Red Sea region, Education Minister Professor Berhanu Nega told ENA. A leading figure in Ethiopia’s opposition politics, Berhanu said Ethiopia’s quest for sea access is logical, historical, demographic, economic, and fundamentally linked to the country’s security and survival. Professor Berhanu said Ethiopia’s pursuit of access to the Red Sea is not a temporary issue that can simply be delayed or ignored, given the country’s rapidly growing population and expanding economic needs. “You cannot have 130 million people sitting here without access to the sea at a time when sea access is very important for security as well as trade,” he said.   Professor Berhanu further noted that Ethiopia’s demographic realities make the pursuit of sea access an inevitable national imperative. Attempts to prevent or indefinitely delay it, he argued, cannot remove the underlying economic, demographic, and strategic realities driving the country’s demand. He stressed that Ethiopia’s quest should be pursued on the basis of mutual benefit, allowing Ethiopia and neighboring countries to harness the Red Sea’s potential for greater trade, security, connectivity, and shared prosperity. “It is better if we do this peacefully, and not only peacefully but for mutual benefit, so that all of us can benefit from this,” Berhanu said. He emphasized that sea access is closely tied to Ethiopia’s long-term survival and development, noting that countries such as Ethiopia naturally require maritime access for trade and security. “This is something that is very much linked to their survival. They are not going to let it easily slide,” he said. Berhanu also argued that Ethiopia’s current landlocked status should be understood in its historical context.   He said Ethiopia previously had access to the sea but lost it under successive governments, describing the loss as the result of decisions and developments that failed to safeguard the country’s long-term national interests. For Berhanu, the issue is therefore not simply about access to a port or a stretch of coastline, but about Ethiopia’s long-term economic future, national security, demographic realities, and its place in the wider Red Sea region. Describing Ethiopia's loss of direct sea access as a grave historical mistake by previous governments, the minister maintained that the current status quo cannot persist forever. While reiterating Ethiopia’s commitment to peaceful negotiations, he warned that the issue will endure across generations until resolved. “If a mutually acceptable arrangement is not reached, future generations will not sit idle and allow their survival to be threatened,” he concluded.

Addis Ababa, September 5, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia has legitimate grounds to seek redress for historical economic losses, foregone development opportunities and longstanding inequities in Abay (Nile) River utilization, former State Minister for Irrigation Development, Birhanu Lenjiso said. Speaking to ENA, Birhanu, co-founder and former Deputy Director of the East African Policy Research Institute (EAPRI), said the issue must be assessed through a new and more equitable framework, as the previous Nile status quo is coming to an end. He outlined a framework that takes into account historical asymmetries, opportunity costs, benefit-sharing mechanisms, and the economic and environmental value of sustaining the Nile ecosystem. Explaining the stark disparity, Birhanu noted: “Egypt has been using 85 percent without contributing anything, while Ethiopia uses nothing despite contributing 85 percent of the Nile flow.”   As the source of the vast majority of the Nile River’s flow, primarily through the Abay (Blue Nile), Ethiopia devoted for equitable and reasonable utilization. In that regard, scholars and water experts argue that Ethiopia has legitimate grounds to seek redress for historical economic losses and foregone development opportunities resulting from restrictions on its use of the Nile. Birhanu, author of “water: Ethiopia’s Gateway to Prosperity,” says the stark gap between Ethiopia’s enormous contribution to the Nile and its historically limited use of its waters raises fundamental questions of equity. “Ethiopia has contributed enormously to the Nile system while bearing substantial opportunity costs and receiving disproportionately limited benefits,” Birhanu said. He added that: “That historical imbalance provides a legitimate basis for discussing redress and, where appropriate, compensation.” However, he stressed that the issue extends beyond financial claims for past losses.   “It should not be simplified merely to unfair water use in the past or calculating damages,” he said. “It is equally about the future, rainfall, forests, watershed management, biodiversity restoration, and the opportunity cost Ethiopia incurs by allowing a major share of its water resources to flow downstream without corresponding developmental benefits.” He called on downstream nations to acknowledge the ecological investments that maintain the river. Programs like Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative protect basin-wide ecosystems, raising questions about how the financial burden of sustaining these environmental services should be shared, Biruhanu underscored. Similarly, Birhanu argued that infrastructure like the GERD should be evaluated by its overall strategic benefits, such as regional electricity generation, flow regulation, and lower evaporation rates, rather than strictly by reservoir size.   “The fundamental question should not be limited to how many cubic meters of water each country receives,” Birhanu said. “We should also ask what value is generated from the water and how that value can be shared equitably.” Rather than relying solely on direct financial reparations, Birhanu proposed a framework centered on cross-border investment and development cooperation. Downstream nations could invest in Ethiopia’s groundwater development or irrigation efficiency to meet local needs while easing pressure on surface flows, he noted. He highlighted hydropower as a key path toward integration, given that power generation uses water non-consumptively, allowing flows to continue downstream uninterrupted. To realize this, he called for joint scientific, environmental, and economic studies across all Nile Basin states. He stressed that giving value to the concept is more important than a narrow cubic-metre approach. “The future of Nile cooperation should be based not simply on dividing water volumes, but on equitably sharing the benefits generated by the entire river system,” Birhanu stated.

Addis Ababa, September 4, 2026 (ENA)—The United Nations General Assembly has endorsed a resolution supporting the transition from the centuries-old Mercator projection to more accurate equal-area world maps, including the 2018 Equal Earth projection. The resolution was backed by 164 countries, with the United States voting against and six countries abstaining. Togo introduced the resolution to the assembly about a year after the African Union endorsed it. The resolution is part of the #CorrectTheMap campaign backed by all African Union member states. The resolution seeks to replace the traditional Mercator map, which distorts the region, with the Equal Earth projection, which is believed to show countries’ true sizes. Led by Togo on behalf of the African Union, the initiative seeks to address long-standing distortions in how Africa and other equatorial regions are visually represented on world maps. The Mercator projection significantly enlarges high-latitude regions while making Africa appear far smaller than its actual size. Supporters say the move could influence education, technology and public understanding, while helping challenge inherited perceptions of Africa’s geographic, economic and geopolitical significance. Togo’s Foreign Minister Robert Dussey described the issue as a scientific matter, saying it is time to “change the narrative” surrounding Africa’s representation. Although the UN resolution is not legally binding, its adoption marks a significant symbolic step in Africa’s broader effort to reshape global narratives and representation.

ADDIS ABABA, Sept. 4, 2026 (ENA) — Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos received U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Frank Garcia earlier today. The two sides discussed ways of further strengthening the longstanding bilateral relations between Ethiopia and the United States, including expanding trade, investment and commercial ties between the two countries. They also exchanged views on regional peace and security issues of mutual interest. It is recalled that Ethiopia and the United States held a bilateral structured dialogue in Washington, D.C., on May 11, 2026, focusing on three key areas including economic prosperity, trade and investment; defense and security cooperation; and the promotion of regional peace and stability.

ADDIS ABABA, Sept. 4, 2026 (ENA) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has extended warm congratulations to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, praising her leadership for bringing "unprecedented stability" to Italy and strengthening the long-standing partnership between the two nations. In a message shared on his X page, PM Abiy wrote: "My dear friend Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, on behalf of the Government and people of Ethiopia, I extend my warmest congratulations to you, as your administration achieves a truly historic milestone. As a strong woman, your visionary leadership has brought unprecedented stability to the modern history of the Italian Republic." He added that Meloni's "enduring dedication and resilience not only inspire many globally but continue to strengthen the deep, multifaceted partnership between Ethiopia and Italy," highlighting that their bilateral ties are built on "mutual respect." PM Abiy concluded by wishing "continued peace and prosperity" to the Italian prime minister and her people. PM Abiy’s remarks highlight Ethiopia’s ongoing commitment to expanding its historic, strategic partnership with Italy.

Addis Ababa, September 4, 2026 (ENA)— Former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Tibor Nagy underscored the strategic value of military cooperation between the United States and Ethiopia, describing engagement with the Ethiopian National Defence Forces as a clear “win-win” for both sides and for regional stability. Recently, a high-level Ethiopian delegation, led by Major General Teshome Gemechu, Director General of Foreign Relations and Military Cooperation at the FDRE Ministry of Defence, held talks with senior U.S. Department of War officials. Following these discussions, Ethiopia and the United States have agreed to establish comprehensive strategic cooperation in defense and security. In an exclusive interview with Pulse of Africa, Tibor Nagy, the former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, highlighted the Ethiopian military’s high level of professionalism, which he said places it at the upper end among African forces. He attributed this to deep discipline and a continuous military tradition dating back centuries. “The Ethiopian military has been always at the high end of a professional military again because of the discipline and the history,” Nagy said. ‘This is the same military that is the successor of the people who won the Battle of Adwa,’ he said, noting that Ethiopia’s warrior spirit and the idea of fighting for the nation remain ‘in the DNA’. Nagy compared the military’s institutional professionalism to that of Ethiopian Airlines, emphasizing consistency in a large country with a very long military history. This professionalism, he argued, makes sustained contact and cooperation with Ethiopia’s armed forces particularly valuable. “Having contact with such a military is extremely important because the United States has certain advantages in training, equipment and strategies,” Nagy stated. He stressed that a stable and prosperous Horn of Africa serves core U.S. interests. “The United States can definitely hugely benefit from a stable and prosperous Horn of Africa because it’s a key region of the world,” he said, pointing to nearby challenges such as Houthi operations affecting Red Sea shipping lanes, which he described as “straight downhill down the mountain from Ethiopia.” Framing the relationship in broader terms, Nagy concluded that deepened U.S.-Ethiopian military and strategic engagement represent “a win-win proposition for all sides.

Addis Ababa, Sept. 3, 2026 (ENA) —The Ethiopian Institute for Strategic Studies (EISS) stated that the political crisis between Ethiopia and Egypt is rooted in a deeply entrenched colonial mindset in Egypt that views Ethiopia’s development and stability in the Horn of Africa as a threat to Egyptian interests. In an exclusive interview with ENA, EISS President Nuruddin Abda emphasized that the colonial mindset among Egyptian officials remains an obstacle to development and stability in the Horn of Africa. Nuruddin added the mindset treats Ethiopia’s economic, political and security progress as a challenge to Egypt’s national security, arguing that such an approach cannot resolve tensions between the two countries unless Cairo recognizes the changing realities of the region. He further elaborated that Egypt should respect Ethiopia’s right to development and its pursuit of national interests rather than portraying Ethiopia’s actions as threats to Egyptian security. Nuruddin also criticized what he described as double standards in Egypt’s approach to the Horn of Africa, saying Cairo cannot claim the right to operate freely in the region while denying Ethiopia the same right. “The problem is that the Egyptian political mindset still sees any rise of Ethiopia or stability in the Horn of Africa as a threat, as if the region should remain a security sphere where Egyptian hands and agencies can operate in one way or another,” Nuruddin noted. He further elaborated such a perspective reflects a fundamental problem in Egypt’s approach to the countries of the Horn of Africa. “The peoples of the region are not spheres of influence and cannot be treated as instruments in Egypt’s security calculations,” he said. Addressing Ethiopia’s landlocked status, Nuruddin also stated the country’s need for reliable maritime access has gone beyond trade and has become a matter of national security. According to him, Ethiopia’s dependence on ports in neighboring countries exposes its trade and supply chains to political and security uncertainties. “Any instability in the region could disrupt supply chains and directly affect Ethiopia’s economy,” he said. Nuruddin also noted that Ethiopia’s large population and geographic size make it unrealistic to isolate the country from developments in the surrounding maritime environment. Ethiopia’s stability is important not only to the country itself but also to the wider Horn of Africa, as well as the Middle East and Gulf regions, he added. The president further said developments in the Red Sea and Bab el Mandeb have a direct bearing on Ethiopia’s security and strategic interests. He rejected calls for Ethiopia to refrain from taking action concerning the Red Sea, arguing that developments in the area directly affect Ethiopia despite the country being landlocked.

Addis Ababa, Sep 4, 2026 (ENA) — IGAD member states should harness artificial intelligence (AI) to fast-track development, deepen regional integration and tackle shared challenges across the Horn of Africa, IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu has said. Speaking at the Regional AI Framework and Strategy Stakeholders Consultation Workshop in Addis Ababa, Workneh said AI should be seen as a key force multiplier for IGAD’s broader agenda on regional integration, peace and development. He said AI has the potential to boost food security and agriculture, improve predictive climate modelling and early-warning systems for drought and flooding, and expand access to healthcare through AI-driven diagnostics and disease surveillance, especially in remote and border communities. Workneh also underscored the need for data sovereignty, accountability and regional regulation, saying IGAD countries must ensure their data is controlled, managed and used in their own interests. “We should be the owners of our own data,” Workneh said, stressing the need to strengthen regional approaches to data governance and AI regulation. He called for stronger cooperation among member states through data sharing, resource pooling and policy harmonization, saying regional collaboration can achieve what no single country can do alone. “This is not a Secretariat project. It is a regional initiative owned by you, our Member States, for our people,” Workneh said. Workneh outlined a three-pronged strategy to advance AI in the region: targeted investment in areas where AI can deliver the greatest development impact, closing critical gaps in infrastructure, policy and human skills, and building a strong regional AI ecosystem. He stressed the need for cross-border initiatives, institutional cooperation and harmonized policies to support the growth of an effective regional AI ecosystem. In his remarks, Director for IGAD Affairs at Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ketema Haile, said Ethiopia recognizes AI as a transformative tool for national and regional development. “Ethiopia fully recognizes the transformative role of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in national and regional development,” Ketema said. He said Ethiopia is committed to working closely with IGAD and fellow member states to advance a safe, inclusive and human-centered AI agenda across the region. Ketema also highlighted the newly established Artificial Intelligence University, expressing hope that it will benefit IGAD member states and Africa at large. “In this regard, I hope the newly established Artificial Intelligence University will benefit all IGAD member states and the entire Africa,” Ketema said. He called for coordinated regional action, strong policy frameworks and strategic investment in human capital, digital infrastructure, research and innovation to ensure AI benefits the region’s young population. The two-day consultation, which runs from September 4 to 5, brings together policymakers, technical experts, academics, private-sector representatives and development partners to help develop a practical regional AI framework and strategy for IGAD.

Addis Ababa, Sep 4, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia and the Netherlands held their fourth political consultations in Addis Ababa, exchanging views on bilateral relations as well as regional and global issues of mutual interest. According to a social media post by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ethiopian delegation was led by Ambassador Meles Alem, Director General of European and American Affairs, while the Dutch side was led by Pascalle Grotenhuis, Vice Minister for International Cooperation of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The two sides also discussed regional peace and stability, economic cooperation, and reform of the international multilateral system. Opening the consultations, Ambassador Meles highlighted the longstanding and multifaceted relations between the two countries. He underscored the historical bonds and long-standing cooperation in agriculture, horticulture, dairy development, and cold-chain infrastructure, and appreciated the contribution of Dutch investors to Ethiopia’s economy. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating a conducive investment environment through the implementation of the Homegrown Economic Reform Program. The discussions also covered peace, development, regional affairs, and multilateral issues. Ambassador Meles highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to advance peace, democratic participation, and national consensus, including through the recently concluded seventh national elections and the National Dialogue. He appreciated the Netherlands’ support for the implementation of the Pretoria Peace Agreement, disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR), and transitional justice, and called for continued cooperation in support of Ethiopia’s peace and development priorities. Vice Minister Grotenhuis expressed the Netherlands’ interest in expanding investment and strengthening economic cooperation with Ethiopia, while welcoming the progress of the country’s economic reform efforts, according to the social media post. She also commended Ethiopia’s important role in the multilateral system and expressed support for reforms aimed at making international institutions more representative and responsive to contemporary global realities. Both sides underscored the importance of sustained high-level engagement, including exchanges of official visits, and reaffirmed their commitment to deepening their longstanding partnership across political, economic, regional, and multilateral areas, particularly as they mark a century of bilateral trade relations.

Addis Ababa, Sep 3, 2026 (ENA) — Inhabitants of Tigray region told ENA that the struggle to end the atrocities and inhumane acts being carried out by the illegal TPLF faction must be strengthened. They revealed that the faction has continued inflicting harm on the local communities, including forced recruitment and human trafficking targeting the youth. One of the inhabitants, Hluf Atsali, said young people in Tigray are being forcibly seized and pushed to become combatants. Many youths are fleeing their homes to escape forced recruitment, often taking dangerous desert and sea routes in search of safety, he added. People from all walks of life must unite to put an end to these abuses committed by the illegal faction, Hluf stressed. Lemlem Samuel, a female resident, said mothers across Tigray continue to bear the heavy emotional and social burden of the ongoing conflict and forced recruitment. For his part, Teka Gebru described the situation in the region as deeply oppressive and called for stronger community resistance to the group’s actions. Teka, who noted that forceful recruitment violates fundamental human rights, warned that Ethiopia’s core values of human dignity and solidarity are being undermined in the region.