Addis Ababa, November 7, 2026 (ENA)— The Second African Political Parties Summit concluded today with the adoption of the Addis Ababa Declaration, outlining a continental framework to strengthen political leadership, democratic governance and the role of political parties in driving Africa's economic transformation. The declaration underscores that Africa's economic transformation requires deliberate political choices, capable public institutions, sustained productive investment and consistent national development priorities. It recognizes political parties as key actors in shaping national policies, preparing leaders for public office and providing political direction for the continent's long-term development. A major outcome of the summit was the adoption of the Charter of the African Political Parties Initiative (APPI) on November 6, establishing its governing constitutional framework, institutional organs and leadership arrangements within the Africa Governance Centre (AGC). The summit also endorsed the inaugural APPI Bureau Leadership for a three-year term, marking the beginning of the initiative's institutional transition under the newly adopted Charter. Delegates further agreed to launch an inclusive continental consultation process to formulate APPI Agenda 2040, a collective political vision that will define shared aspirations, development priorities and measurable ambitions for Africa's political, economic and institutional transformation. The proposed agenda is expected to complement the African Union's Agenda 2063 by providing a framework through which participating political parties can translate continental development aspirations into political programs and sustained commitments. On economic transformation, it calls on political parties to advance policies promoting industrialization, productive investment, technological development and employment creation, particularly in manufacturing, agro-processing, modern agriculture, mineral beneficiation, digital industries and internationally competitive services. It also commits participating parties to mobilizing legislative and public support for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), expanding intra-African trade, strengthening regional value chains and improving transport, logistics, energy systems and digital connectivity. The declaration further stresses Africa's sovereign right to determine the development and utilization of its natural resources, while promoting domestic value addition, industrial capabilities and the contribution of resource wealth to national prosperity. It calls for greater mobilization of domestic financial resources, stronger capital markets and development finance institutions, alongside transparent public financial management, accountable resource allocation and prudent debt governance. The leaders also emphasized the importance of fairer international economic partnerships, improved access to technology and development finance, and stronger African participation in global value chains. On governance, the declaration reaffirms commitment to constitutionalism, democratic accountability, political pluralism, the rule of law, fundamental rights and peaceful political competition. It unequivocally rejects unconstitutional changes of government. It also highlights the need to preserve institutional memory, professional expertise and administrative continuity through political transitions, while encouraging governing and opposition parties to engage constructively on long-term national development priorities. The declaration calls for professional, effective and accountable public institutions capable of translating development priorities into practical results. Recognizing the importance of Africa's young population, it urges greater investment in education, technical training, technology, enterprise development and productive employment. It also reaffirms women's equal participation in political leadership, public administration and economic decision-making. The summit further agreed to strengthen continental political education and leadership development through the establishment of the Council of African Political Party Schools and Institutes (CAPPSI) and the Political Academy for Transformational Leadership (PATL) under the APPI framework. The declaration also welcomes Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s pledge to contribute to the development of the Political Academy for Transformational Leadership (PATL) and to make Ethiopia’s leadership training opportunities accessible to political parties across Africa. The declaration recognizes this commitment as an important contribution to strengthening policy competence, institutional learning and leadership succession across the continent. It also recognizes the African Youth in Politics Forum and the Africa Women Political Leadership Summit as continuing platforms within APPI, providing opportunities for young people and women to contribute to continental political cooperation and decision-making. The APPI Bureau Leadership and its Secretariat are mandated to facilitate the implementation of the declaration, promote exchanges of national experiences and institutional practices, and present periodic progress reports to the African Political Parties Summit. The declaration concludes by reaffirming the collective responsibility of African political parties to strengthen public institutions, advance productive economic transformation and pursue the long-term prosperity of African peoples. It also expresses appreciation to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for his high patronage of the summit and to the Ethiopian Government, people and Prosperity Party for hosting the gathering in Addis Ababa from November 5 to 7, 2026.

Addis Ababa, November 7, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s ruling Prosperity Party urged political parties to move beyond election-driven politics and embrace long-term strategic leadership that prioritizes effective governance, sustainable investment, and national development. Head of Strategic Affairs at the Prosperity Party, Dr. Dereje Duguma said political parties should focus less on winning elections and more on translating national development ambitions into tangible and lasting results. He made the remarks during a panel discussion held under the theme “Political Parties as Engines of National Development.” Dr. Dereje underscored that political parties have a crucial responsibility to shape national development agendas, advance strategic priorities, and ensure that development plans deliver meaningful outcomes for citizens. He emphasized the need for political parties to align their policies and actions with long-term national and continental aspirations, particularly the African Union’s Agenda 2063. “Political parties should look beyond seasonal election campaigns and adopt long-term strategic frameworks that advance national prosperity and development,” he noted. He further stressed that sustainable development requires investment in the country's future, strong institutions, and leadership commitment that extends beyond electoral cycles. Effective governance, he added, should begin with adequate preparation and institutional capacity even before political parties assume office. Comparing political engagement to a marathon rather than a 100-meter sprint, Dr. Dereje said political parties must approach their responsibilities as a long-term undertaking, with sustained efforts directed toward national transformation. Highlighting the Prosperity Party’s institutional efforts to strengthen leadership capacity, he pointed to the establishment of training structures designed to develop party members and leaders at different levels. Among these, he cited the African Leadership Excellence Center (AfLEX), alongside similar institutions established at regional levels, which provide leadership training and strengthen institutional capacity. According to him, these institutions help enhance leadership development, performance evaluation, monitoring, and accountability within the party. He also identified Medemer as the philosophical foundation underpinning the Prosperity Party’s policies and strategies across social, economic, and foreign affairs sectors. Dr. Dereje further highlighted the party’s leadership incubation programme, which aims to nurture capable leaders at different levels through structured development initiatives and objective performance evaluation. He stressed that strong leadership, capable institutions, and a long-term development vision are essential for political parties to move beyond electoral competition and become effective drivers of national transformation.

By Jibril Lamo November 11, 2026 (ENA) Governing for Growth: How Strategic Synergy Transformed Ethiopia and Offers a Blueprint for Africa Africa does not suffer from a lack of potential or resources. Its historic constraint has been the gap between vision and realization. True transformation requires the realization of three unbroken links: a strategic plan that captures aspirations; a strategic leadership that unites fragmented forces; as well as a strategic execution that converts policy into visible and measurable progress. In recent years, Ethiopia has embarked on a bold political and economic experiment. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the Prosperity Party emerged — growing into one of Africa’s largest political institutions with over 16.9 million members. The Prosperity Party has thus emerged a leading entity in Africa’s political leadership for economic transformation. Anchored in the philosophy of Medemer, the party puts public interest first. This pragmatic approach serves as a living example to Africa. It proves that a strong, visionary political party is indispensable for transforming the lives of its people. Strategic Execution in Agriculture Agricultural transformation lies at the heart of Ethiopia’s Prosperity Party agenda. This transformation drive is guided by five uncompromising objectives: producing excess to ensure food security and sovereignty, accelerating import substitution, driving export promotion, generating millions of jobs, and building lasting household wealth. For this emerging party, political sovereignty without economic strength is fragile. True independence must be built on productivity, prosperity and self-reliance, which are the core values of the Prosperity Party. The transformation is backed by profound policy shifts: long-term land deed security, fertilizer subsidies, duty-free importation of agricultural machinery, and technology transfer. Through this approach, Ethiopia has eliminated its 1 billion USD wheat import bill. Now, the nation harvests tens of million metric tons and exports surplus grain. This Prosperity Party-led transformation offers Africa a powerful lesson: replace wheat imports with homegrown abundance and turn food dependence into sovereignty. In coffee — the major export commodity of the country, structural market reforms crossed 3 billion USD in annual export earnings. This alone marks a historic breakthrough in Ethiopia’s coffee exports. while the Green Legacy Initiative has planted over 56 billion tree seedlings to secure climate resilience. Meanwhile, the Green Legacy Initiative has reinforced this transformation, with over 56 billion tree seedlings planted since 2019 to strengthen climate resilience and sustain agricultural growth. Industrial Growth The Prosperity Party has sparked an industrial growth, achieving structural self-sufficiency in key industrial products. Through the “Made in Ethiopia” campaign, aggressive import substitution in cement, steel, and ceramics has saved billions. Today, 44 percent of pharmaceutical products are manufactured locally, establishing continental leadership. To guarantee input sovereignty, the Ethiopian Investment Holdings has partnered with the Dangote Group. They are building a 2.5 billion USD natural gas-to-urea mega-complex, set to produce 3 million metric tons of urea annually. Strategic Leadership in Digital Economy Through the Digital Ethiopia 2025 strategy, telecommunications liberalization ended a state monopoly, securing 850 million USD in direct FDI; while modernizing Ethio Telecom. The Telebirr platform has surpassed 45 million active users, facilitating trillions of Birr in digital transactions. Meanwhile, over 500 public services have been fully digitized. To power the future workforce, the visionary 5 Million Coders Initiative is equipping millions of African youth with cutting-edge software programming, AI, and data science skills. Unlocking Mineral Potential In mining, policy reforms directed commercial and artisanal gold straight to central bank reserves. For the first time in history, gold has become Ethiopia's number one foreign currency earner, generating over 5.6 billion USD. The inauguration of the state-of-the-art National Precious Metals Refinery adds local value before export, creating thousands of high-quality jobs and elevating the quality of life for mining communities. Strategic Execution in Tourism Clarity of thought and imaginative leadership has also unlocked Ethiopia’s tourism wealth. Brand-new eco-tourism destinations were created from scratch. This was made possible through the Dine for Sheger, Dine for Ethiopia, and Dine for Generation initiatives. Concurrently, major investments renovated historical, cultural, and spiritual landmarks. Sites like Lalibela, Fasilides Castle, Jimma Abajifar Palace and the historic city of Harar were restored, driving double-digit revenue growth and drawing millions of global visitors. Urban Renewal The Prosperity Party’s urban transformation model—exemplified by the Addis Ababa Corridor Development—has revolutionized urban living. With similar corridor developments actively in progress across 78 major cities nationwide, urban centers are being transformed into clean, green, walkable, and smart habitats that boost commerce and create massive urban employment. Rural Corridor Development Going beyond urban centers, the Prosperity Party has extended its visionary corridor transformation into the countryside through rural corridor development. This initiative integrates rural infrastructure, including feeder roads, electrification, water access, and digital connectivity. It connects farming communities directly to economic hubs, reduces post-harvest losses, and turns rural settlements into vibrant centers of growth. Mega Projects for Comprehensive Sovereignty Beyond poverty reduction, true statehood requires monumental infrastructure. The Prosperity Party delivered the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) which stands as a national symbol of patriotism and self-funding. This mega project drives regional energy integration by exporting clean electricity across the Horn of Africa. To revolutionize continental logistics, construction has been underway for the new Bishoftu International mega Airport with a total outlay of 12.5 billion USD, designed as Africa's largest international aviation hub. Add to this the major Natural Gas and Petroleum Development Projects… Through these, Ethiopia is guaranteeing its energy sovereignty. The Ethiopian transformation under the Prosperity Party was not an accident of circumstances. Grounded in the philosophy of Medemer, this strategic alignment has propelled Ethiopia to the top of Africa’s economic rankings. The nation has achieved an extraordinary 10.2 percent economic growth rate. Medemer is no longer just an idea. It is a tried, tested, and empirically proven philosophy that can be replicated across the African continent. How can African political parties adapt this model? African countries can adapt this promising Ethiopian model and start marching on the path to prosperity. How? First: Build Institutional Synergy. Move political organizations away from short-term electoral cycles toward unified, development-focused governance platforms. Second: Achieve productive sovereignty. Instead of relying on imports, we must harness our own land, labor, and resources to end our dependence on foreign aid. And Third: Integrate Regional Value Chains. Link trade, energy, and agricultural markets so that no African nation faces global supply crises alone. The story of Ethiopia over the last seven and eight years demonstrates that rapid, homegrown economic transformation is not a distant vision. It is achievable through strategic clarity, public-first leadership, and disciplined execution. As 600 political party leaders, heads of state and policy architects gather here in Addis Ababa for the Second African Political Parties Summit (APPS), the mandate is clear: When nations align their strategic plans, exercise courageous strategic leadership, and commit to relentless strategic execution—Africa does not merely adapt to the future. Africa builds it.

Addis Ababa, November 7, 2026 (ENA)—The Office of the Prime Minister (PMO) has published the ninth volume of its annual book series, Meskerem to Meskerem, which documents Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's speeches and messages from Meskerem 2018 (September 2025) to Meskerem 2019 (September 2026). The title refers to the Ethiopian calendar year. Each Ethiopian year begins in Meskerem, the first month, around September 11, and ends in early September of the following year. The phrase "Meskerem to Meskerem" therefore covers one full calendar year. The book records the Prime Minister's addresses at a range of events and national celebrations. It highlights Ethiopia's progress in national transformation, development, economic growth, national dignity, and international cooperation. According to the PMO, the volume shows how the country is turning its vision and commitments into concrete development results. It also preserves key messages and milestones for future generations. In its social media post, the PMO said: "Words reveal a vision, while actions turn that vision into reality. Preserving the speeches, messages, and historical events of leaders is a vital way to pass down a nation's journey of transformation and history to future generations." The ninth volume is part of an annual series that the PMO prepares to document Ethiopia's transformation through the Prime Minister's speeches and messages.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s Prosperity Party has been unanimously elected to lead the African Political Parties Initiative (APPI) at the 2nd African Political Parties Summit underway in Addis Ababa. The move marks an expanded role for the party in continental political engagement. The decision was made at the Second African Political Parties Summit underway in Addis Ababa, where leaders and representatives of prominent political parties from across Africa recognized the party’s experience in nation-building, economic transformation and its guiding philosophy of Medemer (synergy). The unanimous election reflects growing recognition of the Prosperity Party’s political and development experience as a valuable source of lessons for African countries seeking to strengthen political institutions, promote inclusive governance and accelerate socioeconomic transformation. In a related development, Bikila Hurisa, Head of the Prosperity Party’s Political and Public Relations Sector, Minister and member of the party’s Council, was appointed Executive Secretary of the APPI Executive Secretariat.   In this capacity, Bikila will lead the initiative’s executive office and coordinate the implementation of its continental action agenda, placing Ethiopia’s ruling party at the forefront of efforts to strengthen political cooperation and institutional capacity across Africa. APPI serves as the executive arm of the African Political Parties Summit, translating decisions and common positions adopted by participating parties into practical action. It seeks to transform political parties from organizations largely mobilized around election cycles into sustainable institutions capable of contributing continuously to national and continental development. Its agenda focuses on strengthening political institutions, promoting policy innovation and good governance, developing leadership capacity and supporting economic transformation through knowledge-sharing and cross-border cooperation.   The Prosperity Party’s election and the appointment of its representative underscore Ethiopia’s growing engagement in shaping continental political dialogue, as the summit enters its third and final day in Addis Ababa. Participants have also acknowledged Ethiopia’s development experience and the party’s contribution to the country’s ongoing transformation. The summit is expected to conclude with the adoption of the Addis Ababa Declaration, outlining shared positions and commitments to strengthen political institutions, deepen cooperation and advance Africa’s collective development agenda.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s Medemer philosophy has emerged as a powerful framework for harnessing African nations’ collective capabilities, driving national transformation and achieving shared prosperity, Bikila Hurisa told ENA. Bikila, Coordinator for Democratic System Building with the rank of Minister at the Office of the Prime Minister, spoke on the sidelines of the Second African Political Parties Summit in Addis Ababa, emphasizing that Medemer is fundamentally rooted in cooperation, unity and synergy. He noted that by embracing collective action, African countries can pool their resources and strengths to address common regional challenges and drive sustainable development across the continent. Highlighting its broader significance, Bikila described Medemer as "the philosophy of cooperation, coming together, joining hands, and connecting the past, the present, and the future." The Minister further elaborated that the philosophy has served as the guiding principle behind Ethiopia’s political, economic and social reforms over the past eight years. He added that Ethiopia’s experience in implementing Medemer offers valuable insights for other African nations seeking to adapt its principles to their respective national contexts.   "This philosophy is not limited to Ethiopia and Ethiopians; it could serve as a strong springboard for all African countries to emulate and customize to their practical realities," Bikila said. He explained that Medemer enables countries to pool their individual strengths, transforming fragmented national potential into collective capacity to pursue shared prosperity. Beyond strengthening bilateral and continental ties, Bikila emphasized that realizing this vision requires political parties to rise above partisan differences and prioritize citizens’ welfare. Reflecting on the summit’s theme: "Governing for Growth: Political Parties as Architects of African Political and Economic Future," he noted that the participation of both governing and opposition parties underscores a growing commitment to national progress.   "Whatever idea you have, whatsoever ideology you are governed with, ultimately you have to work for the transformation of the lives of your citizens and the economic transformation of your people," he said. Bikila further stressed that the true measure of a political party’s success lies in tangible improvements in citizens’ lives rather than electoral victories or the pursuit of political power. "Governing for growth is beyond competition. Governing for growth is beyond an electoral cycle. It is beyond enjoying power," he said, underscoring the need for political parties to prioritize collective prosperity and a shared future.   Highlighting the importance of securing Africa’s long-term future, Bikila pointed to Medemer’s emphasis on connecting the past, present and future, particularly through preparing young people for leadership. "The young generation is a real promise of the future of Africa," he said, urging political leaders and institutions to invest in the continent’s youth to help shape its future trajectory. Empowering young people with clarity of thought and pragmatic approaches, he added, will ensure that future generations inherit strong, united, productive and prosperous African states.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s Medemer philosophy provides a comprehensive pathway to national prosperity by integrating economic development, political inclusivity, social cohesion and environmental sustainability, Prosperity Party Vice President Adem Farah said. Adem made the remarks while presenting Ethiopia’s experience of “Governing Transformation in Practice,” explaining how the philosophy connects political leadership, public policy and development initiatives to advance national transformation. He said the approach brings together public institutions, private enterprises and citizens around concrete national development objectives, particularly in areas requiring coordinated action across institutional boundaries. Adem further noted that Medemer provides an overarching framework for national transformation by setting strategic direction, building consensus and strengthening institutional and human capacity. Developed by Prosperity Party President and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the philosophy is anchored in three organizing principles: base, balance and build, which guide the development of individuals, institutions and shared national aspirations. He explained that the approach seeks to harmonize diverse identities and legitimate interests, balance competition with cooperation and foster a shared sense of national purpose. Adem stressed that sustainable transformation requires political and public mobilization to advance alongside institutionalization, noting that mobilization without strong institutional foundations cannot deliver lasting results. He outlined three key stages through which the party translates the Medemer philosophy into practical development outcomes: aligning stakeholders around common objectives, developing comprehensive implementation frameworks and delivering measurable results through continuous support, performance assessment and accountability. He said effective implementation requires detailed blueprints, clearly defined responsibilities, capable leadership and implementation teams, adequate training and the timely provision of necessary resources. The Vice President also highlighted the significance of the four Medemer books, which explore the philosophical foundations of collective action, practical pathways to transformation, the development of capable generations and the role of the state in delivering national prosperity. He emphasized that the philosophy envisions prosperity beyond economic growth, encompassing political, social and environmental dimensions, underpinned by productive capacity, political inclusivity, the rule of law, social cohesion and responsible environmental stewardship. Adem further underscored the importance of cultivating a new generation equipped with strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, digital proficiency and strong ethical standards, while ensuring meaningful leadership opportunities for women and young people. He also emphasized that effective governance must accelerate transformation through innovation and creativity, eliminate implementation bottlenecks and strategically adopt advanced knowledge and technologies to shorten development pathways.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s continued investments in infrastructure, energy, industry, and productive activities demonstrate the country's commitment to economic transformation, Africa Governance Centre Executive Chair Benedicta Lasi said. Addressing the Second African Political Parties Summit on its second day, Lasi praised Ethiopia’s development efforts, congratulating Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, his government, and the Ethiopian people for their commitment to transforming the country. Ethiopia’s Medemer-led economic policies have gained traction over the last few years in driving sustainable transformation and bringing forward young leaders, she noted. Stresssing the role of political organizations, the Executive Chair stated that long-term development priorities such as industrialization, energy systems, and agricultural productivity require sustained commitment beyond electoral cycles. Lasi stressed that political parties must prepare capable leaders, develop sound policies, and strengthen institutional capacity before assuming government responsibilities. “An election can place a party in government overnight, but it cannot supply overnight knowledge required to run a ministry, negotiate a major contract, or manage the national economy,” she added. The Executive Chair emphasized that party schools, research institutions, and policy structures are essential to test proposals, develop sector-specific knowledge, and prepare people for public office. Political parties, she added, should help maintain development priorities across changes in government to ensure that national programmes continue over time. Lasi also emphasized the need for closer cooperation between the African Union and political parties to advance Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). She expressed hope that this cooperation would support the proposed African Political Parties Agenda 2040, which aims to establish standards for internal democracy, national development visions, and leadership development, while promoting women’s participation and young people’s contribution. Highlighting the Africa Governance Centre’s work, the Executive Chairperson said its African Political Parties Initiative (APPI), launched in 2025, provides a platform for political parties to exchange experiences and strengthen their capacity to govern. She noted that the initiative has expanded international cooperation through partnerships in Latin America and Asia, leading to the launch of the Intercontinental Dialogue among Political Parties in Seoul, South Korea, in September 2026. Lasi also highlighted the Centre’s collaboration with African legislative institutions to strengthen parliamentarians’ capacity to shape national development policies and support economic transformation.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Ethiopia is committed to supporting leadership development in African political parties by extending training opportunities at the African Leadership Excellence Academy to political parties across the continent. PM Abiy made the commitment while addressing the Second African Political Parties Summit in Addis Ababa, underscoring the importance of preparing a new generation of leaders capable of sustaining development and ensuring continuity in governance. "The …. proposal that I am bringing to attention today is developing new leaders. We have seen countries lose momentum when strong leaders fail to prepare successors. We must give younger members real responsibility and promote those who show judgment and integrity," he said. The Premier said Ethiopia would contribute to the African Leadership Excellence Academy and open its training programmes to political parties across Africa, making the country's leadership development experience available to political actors throughout the continent. Sharing Ethiopia's leadership philosophy, the Premier explained that the governing Prosperity Party is guided by Medemer, or synergy, which brings together different strengths around a common purpose and encourages members to take responsibility for the country as a whole. Citing economic outcomes from Ethiopia's leadership experience, he pointed to digital identification programme and the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam as examples of national development efforts that require sustained commitment and building on the achievements of previous generations. He also highlighted the Green Legacy Initiative, under which more than 56 billion seedlings have been planted since 2019, as an example of collective efforts to restore degraded land, protect water resources and strengthen resilience to climate-related challenges. PM Abiy emphasized that effective political leadership requires accountability and recognition of the contributions of others, including those with different political views, noting that "every citizen has an equal claim on the state, whichever party they support." PM Abiy also stressed that political parties should measure their convictions by the improvements they bring to people's lives, challenging leaders to ask themselves: "Do our people live better because of what we believe?" He illustrated this responsibility through the example of parents walking their children to school, saying their faith in the country's future depends on continued progress and better prospects for the next generation. "When progress does not reach their home, they lose faith not only in party, but in politics itself. That should concern every leader in this room," he noted. Ethiopia's commitment to extending the Academy's training to political parties across Africa reflects its contribution to developing capable future leaders and strengthening leadership capacity to sustain the continent's development.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed met African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf on the sidelines of the 2nd African Political Parties Summit, discussing continental governance, inclusive political processes, long-term development priorities and strengthening Africa’s leadership. In a post on his official X account, Abiy said the meeting provided an opportunity to exchange views on key issues shaping the continent’s future. “On the sidelines of the 2nd African Political Parties Summit, I held a meeting with H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, where we exchanged views on continental governance, inclusive political processes, long-term development priorities and strengthening Africa’s leadership,” the Prime Minister stated.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Political parties must go beyond seeking power and focus on serving citizens, strengthening democratic governance and building consensus on Africa’s development priorities, African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said today. Addressing the second African Political Parties Summit 2026 underway in Addis Ababa, the Chairperson highlighted the central role of political parties in advancing democratic governance, peace and development in line with the African Union Agenda 2063. Youssouf said political parties have three major responsibilities: developing social and economic policies that serve citizens, building bridges between citizens and state institutions, and raising awareness about the broader interests of their countries.   “Are they meant to conquer power? Or is the mission wider than that?” he asked, stressing that political parties should serve the public and promote national interests rather than narrow political, ethnic or sectarian interests. The Chairperson also underscored the role of opposition parties in monitoring government actions and ensuring public accountability. On constitutional governance, Youssouf said states have a fundamental responsibility to protect their constitutions, organize credible elections and ensure respect for fundamental freedoms. “In case of disagreements on those critical issues, dialogue must always prevail,” he noted. He further highlighted the importance of transparency in political party financing, saying strict rules are necessary to prevent corruption and external influences.   Referring to the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, the Chairperson said the instrument recognizes political pluralism and promotes the rights and responsibilities of ruling and opposition parties. He also described the Maputo Protocol as an important foundation for women’s participation in political life, emphasizing the need for forums bringing together women and young people to promote greater access to political participation and decision-making. Youssouf stressed that African citizens must be involved in decisions affecting their communities. Turning to Africa’s economic future, he described political parties as architects of the continent’s future, emphasizing the need for institutions capable of shaping that future around the general public interest rather than partisan considerations. He called for lasting consensus on key development priorities, including education, youth employment, infrastructure development and continental integration. Cooperation in these areas should be strengthened through open debate and citizens’ oversight of public affairs, he added. Youssouf acknowledged that some AU member states are facing challenges arising from unconstitutional changes of government, political instability and internal conflicts.   However, he reaffirmed the African Union’s determination to promote democratic governance, peace, development and greater inclusivity in the political space of its member states. The AU Commission Chairperson finally urged the summit to translate the commitments made in Accra into concrete measures, clearly define responsibilities and sustain follow-up.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia's Prosperity Party Vice President Adem Farah has underscored the importance of Medemer as a guiding philosophy for overcoming political fragmentation, mobilizing diverse national capabilities and advancing inclusive prosperity. Adem, who also serves as Coordinator for Democratic System Building with the rank of Deputy Prime Minister, made the remarks while addressing the opening of the Second African Political Parties Summit at the Adwa Victory Memorial in Addis Ababa. He emphasized that political parties must move beyond electoral competition to become drivers of national transformation by generating ideas, nurturing leadership, reconciling competing interests and sustaining development efforts beyond electoral cycles. Adem explained that Medemer, an indigenous philosophy developed by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, promotes the pooling of people's potential, institutional capabilities and accumulated achievements around shared national objectives. He said the philosophy provides a framework for overcoming historical divisions and political fragmentation. Moreover, Medemer is fostering collective responsibility and holistic prosperity across generations, he underscored. Highlighting the Prosperity Party's experience, Adem said its formation brought previously separate political organizations together under a common national institution, seeking to broaden political participation and unite diverse communities. He stressed that the party's priority is to translate its broad membership base into institutional strength through continuous capacity building, leadership development and disciplined internal governance. He further highlighted the party's performance evaluation system, which seeks to reward competence and integrity, identify institutional weaknesses and strengthen accountability among leaders and members. On political inclusiveness, Adem underscored the importance of sustained engagement with other political organizations through platforms such as the Ethiopian Political Parties Joint Council and broader dialogue initiatives on peace and democracy. He also noted that leaders from competing political parties have been entrusted with public responsibilities at different levels, describing the approach as an effort to harness diverse talents, broaden participation and strengthen shared national stewardship. Such cooperation, he stressed, should respect institutional mandates and the distinct identities of political parties while safeguarding meaningful political competition. Turning to Africa's broader development challenges, Adem said the continent's economic transformation depends on political parties' ability to mobilize investment, develop human capital, promote innovation, strengthen institutions and convert national potential into productive capabilities. He called for a political culture that balances competition with cooperation, and ambition with accountability, emphasizing that political parties must ultimately be judged by their contribution to improving citizens' lives. Drawing lessons from Ethiopia's historic victory at the Battle of Adwa in 1896, Adem said the country's ability to overcome colonial aggression through unity and collective purpose offers an enduring lesson for Africa. He urged African political leaders to draw inspiration from that legacy by strengthening continental solidarity, building institutions that uphold human dignity and expanding opportunities for citizens. The Second African Political Parties Summit is being held in Addis Ababa under the theme “Governing for Growth: Political Parties as Architects of Africa's Economic Future,” bringing together political leaders and stakeholders to explore the role of political parties in advancing economic transformation and inclusive development across the continent.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed called on African political parties to embrace leadership renewal and build consensus on long-term national priorities. He also stressed that the continent's development must transcend electoral cycles and changes of government. The Prime Minister made the call while opening the Second African Political Parties Summit in Addis Ababa, where he proposed two key commitments for inclusion in the Addis Ababa Declaration: establishing consensus on long-term national development priorities and strengthening leadership development and succession across Africa.   He emphasized that political parties should agree on strategic national goals with measurable milestones to ensure continuity of development efforts regardless of political transitions. PM Abiy elaborated that parties can maintain ideological and policy differences and compete for electoral support while working together on fundamental national interests and long-term development objectives. He also stressed that leadership succession is essential to sustaining development, warning that countries risk losing hard-won progress when incumbent leaders fail to prepare the next generation of leadership. Highlighting Ethiopia's experience in political inclusiveness, the Prime Minister said the country's reformed government has incorporated leaders from opposition political parties.   This reflects an approach that values broader participation and shared responsibility, the Premier revealed. He noted that Ethiopia's Medemer philosophy encourages political actors to recognize and build on one another's contributions despite their differences, particularly when national interests call for collective action. Turning to economic transformation, PM Abiy outlined key measures undertaken through Ethiopia's Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda, including opening the telecommunications, banking and competition sectors to foreign participation and introducing a market-based foreign exchange system. He also highlighted the Green Legacy Initiative, noting that more than 50 billion seedlings have been planted since its launch in 2019 through the collective participation of citizens, communities and institutions.   The initiative, he explained, is aimed at restoring degraded landscapes, protecting water resources and strengthening national resilience to climate-related challenges, including droughts and floods. The Prime Minister's proposals place leadership renewal, political consensus and policy continuity at the center of Africa's development agenda, underscoring the need for political parties to serve not only as vehicles for electoral competition but also as institutions that sustain national transformation. He called on African political parties to strengthen cooperation around shared national priorities and build a development vision that endures beyond political transitions.   The Second African Political Parties Summit is being held in Addis Ababa under the theme “Governing for Growth: Political Parties as Architects of Africa's Economic Future.”

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia and France have pledged to deepen their longstanding military and strategic cooperation, with renewed emphasis on military capacity building, knowledge transfer and regional peace and stability. The commitment was made during talks between Ethiopian Defense Minister Mohammed Idris and French Ambassador to Ethiopia Alexis Lamek in Addis Ababa on Wondsday. The meeting, part of the Defense Minister’s ongoing military diplomacy engagements with foreign ambassadors, focused on strengthening the two countries’ historical ties and expanding cooperation in military and strategic affairs. Minister Mohammed expressed appreciation for France’s support in enhancing Ethiopia’s military capabilities through knowledge transfer, strengthening institutional capacity and improving its preparedness for peacekeeping operations.   He also called on France to support Ethiopia’s efforts to safeguard its legitimate and equitable interests in the region. On the ongoing Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) process in the Tigray Region, the Minister urged France to extend the necessary support to ensure its successful implementation. Ambassador Lamek, for his part, reaffirmed France’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding relations and multifaceted cooperation with Ethiopia. He underscored his country’s readiness to enhance joint efforts in promoting regional peace and stability, while advancing military training and capacity-building cooperation.   The renewed commitment signals both countries’ interest in translating their longstanding diplomatic relations into stronger practical cooperation in defense, military development and regional security, as ENA learned.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— The Second African Political Parties Summit (APPS 2026), which brought together more than 1,000 delegates from across Africa in Addis Ababa, entered its second day today. Ther discussions are focusing on positioning political parties as key drivers of economic transformation, inclusive development and sustainable growth. Convened at the Adwa Victory Memorial under the theme “Governing for Growth,” the summit brings together leaders of governing and opposition political parties, heads of state, government officials, scholars and civil society representatives to explore how political institutions can better respond to Africa’s development priorities.   Organized by Ethiopia’s Prosperity Party and coordinated by the Africa Governance Center, the continental gathering seeks to move political parties beyond electoral competition and strengthen their role in shaping long-term development policies, building effective institutions and advancing shared prosperity. A central focus of the summit is the need for stronger inter-party collaboration on national and continental priorities, particularly in addressing structural barriers to economic transformation, ensuring policy continuity beyond electoral cycles and strengthening institutional accountability. Delegates are also deliberating on practical approaches to employment creation, inclusive economic growth, climate-resilient development and the establishment of productive economic systems capable of withstanding global challenges. The summit further provides a platform for experience-sharing and structured dialogue among African political parties on democracy, peace, governance and economic transformation. It also promotes stronger engagement with the private sector, financial institutions, academia and regional institutions, as ENA learned.   At its core, APPS seeks to redefine the role of political parties in Africa—from primarily serving as vehicles for electoral mobilization to becoming architects of development policies, incubators of leadership and institutional drivers of national transformation. The gathering is also expected to produce the Addis Ababa Declaration, setting out a shared direction and collective commitments to advancing productive, inclusive and sustainable economic growth across the continent. Building on the previous Ghana Declaration of August 2025, the Addis Ababa summit aims to strengthen a lasting continental platform through which African political parties can develop collective responses to shared challenges and advance African solutions to African problems.

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)—African Political Parties Summit delegates have toured Addis Ababa’s major urban development projects, witnessing the Ethiopian capital’s ongoing transformation into a modern, inclusive and more accessible city. Speaking at a reception hosted in their honor, Head of the Democracy Building Center Coordinator Office with the rank of Deputy Prime Minister and Prosperity Party Vice President Adam Farah described Addis Ababa as the political capital and beating heart of Africa, emphasizing its significance as a shared home for all Africans.   “When you are in Addis Ababa, you are not visiting a foreign city; you are returning home, to the heart of Africa,” he said. Adem underscored that Africa’s strength lies in the bonds of fraternity, solidarity and closer cooperation among its peoples, stressing the importance of shared political visions and aspirations in advancing the continent’s development and self-reliance. He also invited the delegates to experience Ethiopia’s renowned hospitality and rich cultural heritage, expressing hope that the summit would produce meaningful and tangible outcomes toward building a prosperous and united Africa. Meanwhile, the delegates concluded a series of field visits across Addis Ababa, touring major streets, modern urban corridors, public spaces and development projects that are reshaping the capital’s urban landscape. During the visits, they gained insights into Ethiopia’s integrated urban corridor development approach, which combines improved infrastructure, pedestrian-friendly spaces, accessibility and modern urban planning to create more functional and livable urban environments. Through museum visits and presentations, participants also explored the different phases of Addis Ababa’s urban development and the vision underpinning its ongoing transformation.   The programme concluded with a cultural reception featuring traditional music, artistic performances and songs reflecting Ethiopia’s rich cultural diversity and heritage. Delegates expressed admiration for the performances and the authenticity of Ethiopian culture. The visits and cultural activities formed part of the accompanying programme of the Second African Political Parties Summit, hosted in Addis Ababa under the theme: ““Governing for Growth: Political Parties as Architects of Africa’s Economic Future.”

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopian Media Authority Board Chairman and National Intelligence Security Service Director-General Redwan Hussien urged the media today to balance freedom with responsibility and leverage the opportunities created by modern technology while mitigating its challenges. Speaking at the inauguration of Ethiopia’s first-ever Media Center of Excellence, the Chairman noted that while technological advancements have expanded the scope for democracy to flourish, they also present significant hurdles that require accountable oversight. "In all our endeavors to implement the right to freedom of expression — a crucial pillar for building a democratic system, freedom must be harmonized with responsibility," Redwan stressed. "In a democratic society, freedom and accountability are inseparable and mutually reinforcing; one cannot exist without the other." Highlighting the far-reaching societal impact of media institutions, the Chairman urged journalists and news organizations to adhere strictly to professional standards. He noted that media professionals have a moral and operational duty to verify facts, distinguish them from opinion or speculation, and present diverse perspectives fairly in order to support state continuity and foster a healthy society. Redwan also cautioned against sensationalism and deliberate misinformation, acknowledging that honest mistakes occur during reporting. In such cases, he emphasized, media outlets must promptly issue corrections with transparency and sincerity. The Chairman underscored that while individuals, journalists, and public figures retain the right to free expression, actions such as spreading disinformation, inciting violence, defaming individuals, and promoting hate speech carry strict legal and moral accountability in any vibrant democracy.

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)— Participants of the Second African Political Parties Summit have visited the headquarters of Ethiopia’s ruling Prosperity Party in Addis Ababa to learn about the party’s political philosophy, development initiatives and achievements. During the visit, the delegation toured the party’s permanent exhibition, where they received briefings on its history, the Medemer philosophy, major initiatives, key achievements and future vision. The participants also watched video presentations highlighting the Prosperity Party’s journey, major milestones and the development of its headquarters.   The delegation subsequently visited the MESOB Service Center, a government initiative designed to streamline public service delivery by bringing multiple government institutions together through an integrated platform. There, they received briefings on Ethiopia’s digital public services, technological advancements and ongoing efforts to modernize government service delivery. The participants expressed amazement at the level of digital development and technological progress, particularly the integration of multiple public services through a unified system. The visits were organized as part of the Second African Political Parties Summit, being held in Ethiopia under the theme: “Governing for Growth: Political Parties as Architects of Africa’s Economic Future.”   The three-day summit is taking place at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum in Addis Ababa, bringing together political party leaders, heads of state and policymakers from across the continent. The summit, which opened today, November 5, 2026, is deliberating on strategies for advancing employment creation, inclusive development and the structural transformation of African economies. Earlier today, the joint opening session of the Africa Women Political Leadership Forum and the African Youth in Politics Forum was also held as part of the summit.

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)— Foreign Affairs State Minister Hadera Abera and Director-General for European and American Affairs Meles Alem have briefed a delegation of the European Union Political and Security Committee (PSC) on current developments in Ethiopia and the wider Horn of Africa today. The PSC delegation was led by the Chair, Ambassador Lene Mandel Vensild, and included ambassadors representing the EU’s 27 member states. During the briefing, State Minister Hadera highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing reform efforts, national priorities, and commitment to promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development. He also outlined key political and security developments in the Horn of Africa, presenting evidence of continued violations of Ethiopia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity through incursions by Eritrean forces into Ethiopian territory. The State Minister further expressed concern over Eritrea’s support for and arming of extremist armed groups operating within Ethiopia, which contributes to insecurity and instability. Hadera also underscored Ethiopia’s strategic role in promoting peace and stability in the Horn of Africa and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to constructive regional engagement. He reiterated Ethiopia’s position that the conflict in Sudan should be resolved peacefully, in a manner that reflects the aspirations and interests of the Sudanese people. The discussions covered Ethiopia-EU relations, with emphasis on the importance of sustained dialogue, mutual understanding, and stronger cooperation with EU Member States. Both sides exchanged views on shared priorities, including regional peace and stability, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, sustainable economic development, and regional integration. For her part, the PSC chair Lene Mandel Vensild reaffirmed EU’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Ethiopia in advancing these objectives.

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s Medemer philosophy is promoting women’s participation in political leadership and national development by bringing their capabilities into decision-making and economic activities, Culture and Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa said. At a panel held as a side event of the African Political Parties Summit in Addis Ababa today, the Minister noted that Medemer emphasizes collective participation, cooperation and the contribution of all citizens toward shared national development goals. “The strength of our society is determined not by the contribution of a few, but also the contribution of the whole,” she said, stressing the importance of collective participation in national transformation. According to her, women’s empowerment goes beyond gender equality, encompassing justice, national productivity and democratic governance, while ensuring equal voice in decisions that shape society. The Minister explained that Medemer, articulated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, is founded on synergy, cooperation and collective progress, bringing together the potential of all citizens to achieve shared national objectives. Empowering women does not mean taking opportunities away from men, but rather combining the capabilities and contributions of both to advance national development, Selamawit added. However, she noted that women’s contributions have not always been reflected in their participation in decision-making although women have made significant contributions to building families, strengthening communities, preserving cultural identities and maintaining heritage. The Minister stressed that women’s empowerment must go beyond political representation to ensure their ability to influence decisions, shape policies, control resources, participate in economic activities and determine their own futures. Highlighting Ethiopia’s experience after the reform, she said women have secured significant representation in parliament, the federal cabinet and government leadership structures, from local administrations to the federal level. The growing women’s participation in the Prosperity Party also demonstrates their readiness to engage in political leadership and decision-making when given opportunities. The increasing representation must nevertheless lead to meaningful influence in decisions concerning national security, infrastructure, education, social development, technology and digital transformation, according to Selamawit. The Minister finally called for women’s empowerment to be connected more closely with economic transformation, saying women should be recognized as productive economic actors, investors, entrepreneurs, innovators and owners of capital rather than being viewed primarily as beneficiaries of social protection. She further identified education and access to technology as essential foundations for developing future women leaders, alongside opportunities for meaningful political participation. Concluding her remarks, the Minister stressed that women’s participation in political power should not be postponed until development is achieved, but must be an integral part of the development process to realize Africa’s ambitions for future generations. The African Women Political Leadership Forum 2026 was a side event of the ongoing African Political Parties Summit 2026 in Addis Ababa.