Addis Ababa, December 10, 2025— Ethiopia and Zambia have solidified their defense ties by signing a broad military cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening partnership across several key fields. The formal agreement was concluded following high-level discussions between the respective military chiefs and defense ministers in Addis Ababa. The foundation for the deal was laid during talks between Field Marshal Berhanu Jula, Chief of Staff of the Ethiopian Defense Forces (EDF), and Lieutenant General Geoffrey Zyeele, Chief of Staff of the Zambian Defense Forces (ZDF). Field Marshal Berhanu stressed Ethiopia's commitment to regional security, stating the agreement would "elevate the longstanding relations" and reinforce peace and stability in the area. Lt. General Zyeele praised the professionalism and historic legacy of the EDF, specifically noting its "experience and expertise since the Battle of Adwa."     He said this reputation encouraged Zambia to seek closer cooperation to "create better capabilities and enhance mutual interests." Following the military chiefs' meeting, the wider cooperation pact was formally signed by Ethiopian State Minister of Defense Martha Luigi and her Zambian counterpart, Mambo Hamaundu. The comprehensive agreement outlines cooperation across key areas of mutual interest. It includes a commitment to build a modern army, strengthen security collaboration, and expand joint work in military education and training. The two countries also agreed to explore opportunities in defense industry development, aiming to advance shared capabilities and deepen their longstanding partnership. Martha stated the agreement is designed to "protect the national interests of both countries and deepen their shared benefits." Hamaundu affirmed Zambia’s commitment to strengthening the partnership "in all areas of focus for the success of our defense sector."

Addis Ababa, December 10, 2025—Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, held talks with China’s Special Envoy to the Horn of Africa, Ambassador Hu Changchun, underscoring the depth and importance of the two countries’ longstanding relationship. Minister Gedion briefed the Special Envoy on Ethiopia’s development priorities, regional dynamics, and the country’s broader vision for enhanced economic integration and shared prosperity across the Horn of Africa. Ambassador Hu, for his part, marked the 55th anniversary of Ethiopia–China diplomatic relations, describing the partnership as a “longstanding, all-weather strategic” one. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to further strengthening cooperation through both bilateral initiatives and multilateral platforms. Both sides agreed to intensify collaboration in areas of mutual interest, reinforcing their partnership amid evolving regional developments.

Addis Ababa, December 10, 2025— Renowned African media leaders have voiced strong support for Ethiopia’s push for fair and equitable access to sea routes, underscoring its crucial role in spurring economic growth and fostering continental unity. In an exclusive interview with ENA, the leaders emphasized that securing sea access is vital not only for Ethiopia's development but also for Africa's collective economic stability and political harmony. The executives stressed that boosting trade cooperation among African nations is key to mitigating widespread economic struggles and achieving sustainable stability. They noted that regional integration, strengthened by connections via air, rail, road, and sea, is fundamental to Africa’s collective progress. Abdoulie Sey, Director General of Gambia Radio and Television Service, affirmed Ethiopia’s legitimate claim to access to the sea, calling it a political aspiration rooted in mutual respect and partnership. "Ethiopia, with its growing economy and influence, deserves access to the sea," Sey stated. "A prosperous Ethiopia means prosperity for all Africa. With a population of 130 million, Ethiopia’s success is vital for the continent. Its pursuit of sea access is both legitimate and necessary." Sey added that access to the sea trade routes would unlock vast economic opportunities, creating benefits that extend well beyond Ethiopia’s borders. Ayanda Holo, President of TV BRICS Africa, also echoed this sentiment, pointing to the interconnected interests of Ethiopia and its neighbors.     "Access to the sea is crucial, not just for Ethiopia but for its neighbors as well," he noted. "Recognizing this interdependence fosters peace and collective prosperity. Without Ethiopia’s development through sea access, neighboring countries also face limitations." Holo further emphasized the untapped economic potential of cooperative sea resource management. "Our future depends on cooperation," he said, adding that Ethiopia’s quest for sea access is a strategic advantage that can drive broader regional advancement. Ethiopia’s demand for sea access embodies a broader African vision where seamless trade, peace, and growth move forward hand in hand.

Addis Ababa, December 10, 2025— The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission said the continuing dialogue offers a chance for all citizens to be heard as the process advances toward a stage aimed at identifying shared solutions. Officials of the commission briefed diplomats and representatives of international organizations in Addis Ababa on the latest progress of the dialogue process. Chief Commissioner Prof. Mesfin Areaya told participants that the dialogue has become “a crucial platform where the voices of all citizens can be heard.” He said the initiative is central to renewing the country’s social contract and confronting deep-rooted political and social challenges. Prof. Mesfin also reaffirmed that the Commission remains committed to impartiality, transparency and accountability. He explained that ongoing efforts are bringing diverse groups closer together, adding that the success of the dialogue “will be an important asset not only for Ethiopia but also for the region.” He called on global partners to continue standing behind the initiative. Commissioner Ambaye Ogato presented key milestones achieved so far and highlighted the hurdles that remains. He said recent dialogues show a positive shift from divisive issues toward ideas that help “build common ground.”   He identified persistent misinformation on social media, the situation in the Tigray region and the decision of some political parties to abstain as major challenges. Ambaye further stressed that the dialogue aims to improve citizens’ lives and strengthen the country, noting that it deserves sustained international backing. Diplomatic representatives welcomed the updates and encouraged the Commission to push forward to ensure the process reaches a successful outcome.  

Addis Ababa, December 10, 2025—Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh said Ethiopia is registering major national achievements as the principles of the “Medemer State,” a governance philosophy introduced by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed—continue to drive efforts to root out institutional corruption. Speaking at the 22nd International Anti-Corruption Day commemorated at the Adwa Victory Memorial under the theme “The Generation with Morality, The Institution with Procedure,” Temesgen emphasized that corruption stems from moral decline and institutional fragility. He noted that Ethiopia has been working to curb corruption through various legal and institutional reforms for the past two decades. Since the beginning of the national reform agenda, he said, significant mobilization efforts have been undertaken, including the establishment of the National Anti-Corruption Committee to assess corruption trends, promote awareness, and recommend sustainable solutions. According to the Deputy Prime Minister, the country’s recent achievements are evidence of the Prosperity Government’s firm stance against corruption. He highlighted that reformed institutions are now combating malpractice more effectively through strengthened transparency and accountability measures. Temesgen pointed to the successful completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), the turnaround of previously loss-making development organizations into profitable enterprises, reductions in budget deficits, and improved tax compliance. He said these outcomes have served as important instruments, reflected in various national awards—demonstrating Ethiopia’s progress in combating state-level corruption. Regarding creating a conducive environment for the effective recovery of public wealth embezzled through corruption and other crimes, he mentioned that the previously flawed Asset Recovery Proclamation has been revised. He also pointed out that new working methods in public service delivery, such as the "Mesob One-Stop Center," were introduced to prevent corruption by creating transparency and accountability. On the other hand, he emphasized that the lasting solution to prevent corruption is by building the morality of the generation and creating citizens resilient to corruption. He stated that they have stopped corruption, which had become institutional and was leading the country towards destruction, through a strong struggle. He concluded by saying that everyone must be committed to building the morality of the generation, preventing corruption by modernizing institutional procedures, and ensuring the rule of law for corruption crimes.    

Addis Ababa, December 9, 2025—An Egyptian official’s recent hardline rhetoric on Nile water rights reflects an outdated colonial-era mindset, failing to align with modern realities of national interest, said a prominent Ethiopian government official. Interviewed by Pulse of Africa, a pan-African media outlet, Bikila Hurisa (PhD), a noted political figure and governance specialist, offered his reflections on Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty’s recent BBC comments regarding the 13-year negotiation process over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. Bikila (Phd) currently serves as the Minister Coordinator of the Center for Democratic System Building at the Office of the Prime Minister and he is also head of Public and International Relations of Prosperity Party. ​​​​​In the interview, Abdelatty accused Ethiopia of using the negotiations to advance unilateral policies. Bikila Hurisa countered that the Egyptian official’s remarks reflect an outdated approach, rooted in insistence on historical claims and a monopoly over the Nile waters. He argued that this rhetoric misrepresents Egypt’s own interests and risks escalating tensions with neighboring countries, undermining efforts for an amicable resolution. The mentality of claiming a monopoly over Nile waters is misguided, said Bikila, noting that it serves neither the interests of Egyptians nor those of the broader region. “I think the Egyptian official in terms of uttering these very hard words simply indicate the failure to understand the current reality in the world in terms of how national interests are promoted”, he said. “So I strongly believe that they are unable to properly articulate their own interests and also promoting their own interests. Because the colonial era narratives are no more working, and that's over, and it will never come back….” The political figure also blamed Egypt for implementing all the non-peaceful strategies in terms of promoting its interests, regarding the Nile waters. That includes recruiting, training, arming and deploying very weak and fragmented agents to destabilize Ethiopia in addition to combative stance against Ethiopia, according to Bikila. According to Bikila, this conduct goes beyond hard‑edged rhetoric and includes recruiting, training, arming, and deploying weak and fragmented proxy groups in attempts to destabilize Ethiopia. Addis Ababa has repeatedly stated that such actions further inflame tensions and undermine regional stability. As the major contributor to the Nile’s waters, Ethiopia is also intensifying its push to secure access to a seaport. Meanwhile, critics observe that Egypt appears to be attempting to block Ethiopia’s rights, echoing its previous efforts to restrict the country’s use of the Abbay/Nile waters. Asked about Ethiopia’s bid for a Red Sea outlet, Bikila described it as a legitimate, principle-based demand and one aimed at reclamation, and Ethiopia seeks to pursue diplomatic and peaceful avenues towards achieving its goals. He expressed confidence that the international community will understand Ethiopia's legitimate request, saying, 'I strongly believe they will gradually recognize Ethiopia's humble and rightful demand for access to the sea.” Already inaugurated and operational, the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam serves as one of flagship projects built in Africa, promoting energy independence and regional connectivity, powering homes and industries. Bikila highlighted the dam’s potential to unify East Africa and the broader continent. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has consistently emphasized Ethiopia's stance that the issue should be resolved through negotiation and dialogue.

Addis Ababa, December 9, 2025 (ENA) – The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) announced today that the 7th General Election will be conducted on June 1, 2026. NEBE Chairperson Melatwork Hailu briefed the media on pre-election activities carried out for the upcoming election. According to her, various activities have been undertaken to make the 7th General Election successful. The chairperson stated that activities in organizing branch offices and ensuring that polling stations are conducive were carried out. Political parties have also been given training that enables them to publicize their programs to the public, she added. Registration of candidates will be conducted through the software developed by the Board, Melatwork revealed, adding that parties or individual candidates can register themselves using the software developed for the purpose. Voters’ registration will be carried out both through the software developed by the Board and manually. The Board is also finalizing registration software for observers.

Addis Ababa, December 8, 2025—Ethiopia received widespread praise last week for its growing leadership in advancing Pan-Africanism as it hosted two major continental events: the IGAD Media Awards 2025 and the African Media Awards and Excellence Conference. Over five days, media leaders, policymakers, and descendants of Africa’s liberation icons gathered in Addis Ababa, commending Ethiopia’s “indispensable” role in promoting African unity, self-reliance, and regional integration. Participants described Ethiopia as a “pillar” in shaping Africa’s future and a catalyst for strengthening the continent’s media landscape. Speaking to ENA, Francis Nyerere, grandson of Tanzania’s founding president Julius Nyerere, said Africa’s progress depends on collective action—economically and in the media sector. “We cannot build our economy without integrating our regions,” he said. “Africa must unite, and we have to make it.” Ayanda Holo, President of TV BRICS Africa, warned that Africa risks “recolonization” unless nations recommit to Pan-African ideals and the self-sufficiency envisioned in Agenda 2063. “We cannot be islands in our own continent; we need to work together,” he emphasized. Athi Mtongana of RT said a “unified voice” was emerging from the discussions, urging nations to leverage their shared challenges and resource wealth to pursue collective solutions. She highlighted Ethiopia’s distinction as the only African country never colonized—a legacy she said offers valuable lessons on sovereignty and resilience. From Nigeria, Favour Barbara George urged African nations to reclaim their narratives: “We Africans should be in a position to tell our story the way it should be told. Unity and togetherness are what will make us stand out.” Speakers repeatedly underscored Ethiopia’s historic role in the Pan-African movement—its unbroken sovereignty, its support for liberation struggles, and Addis Ababa’s status as the birthplace of the OAU and home of the African Union. Ethiopia’s hosting of Nelson Mandela during his military training was also recalled as a symbol of enduring solidarity. The forum concluded with a forceful call for deeper media cooperation across the continent. Participants urged African institutions to strengthen partnerships so Africans “do not rely on Western agencies to tell us about each other.” A unified media voice, they said, is essential for shifting global narratives and ensuring that African stories are told by Africans.

Addis Ababa, December 8, 2025 (ENA)— The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has lauded Ethiopia’s enhanced Migration Information and Data Analysis System (MIDAS), describing it a major step forward in securing borders, protecting vulnerable migrants, and reinforcing regional peace and stability. The Ethiopian Immigration and Citizenship services (ICS) and International Organizations for Migration (IOM) have recently launched MIDAS phase II project that aims to further strengthen Ethiopia's border governance capacity. Speaking to ENA, IOM Chief of Mission to Ethiopia, Abibatou Wane-Fall, stated the system "will help protect vulnerable migrants coming in or out of Ethiopia's borders" and will strengthen efforts to curb irregular migration, including activities carried out by smugglers and traffickers. Phase I, introduced in 2023, was completed in 18 months. Phase II will run from 15 October 2025 to 30 September 2027, focusing on expanded infrastructure, institutional capacity building and alignment with international migration management standards. Wane-Fall highlighted that the system captures, stores and processes biographic and biometric data at land, sea and air border posts, giving government institutions a reliable evidence base for policy development and planning. “The project will allow the government of Ethiopia to control and manage the flow of people entering and exiting the country,” she noted. She emphasized Ethiopia’s extensive borders and the importance of a modernized system capable of identifying fraudulent documents and individuals posing security risks. “The system is owned by the government. The data collected can guarantee the sovereignty of the government about data migration, and it will also allow real-time information exchange across all the borders in Ethiopia.” The system’s ability to detect forged documents and identify individuals on international watch lists, including through links with Interpol, was underscored as a key advantage. Wane-Fall added that MIDAS has already improved service delivery by speeding up visa procedures and immigration processes. Regarding IOM’s collaboration with the Ethiopian ICS, she said the organization has supported installation, training and system management to ensure effective use by immigration officials. She also praised Ethiopia’s broader humanitarian commitment. According to her, the government “is doing its best effort, hosting refugees and providing protection, livelihood support and health care” in partnership with IOM, UNHCR and other agencies.

Addis Ababa, December 8, 2025 (ENA)— Ethiopia has been elected, by consensus, as Vice-President and Bureau Member of the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) during the Council’s Organizational Meeting held on 8 December 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland. According to the social media post by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ethiopia will serve in this leadership role for one year, representing the African Group. Following Ethiopia’s election, Ambassador Tsegab Kebebew Daka, Permanent Representative of Ethiopia to the United Nations in Geneva and other international organizations in Switzerland, will serve as Vice-President of the HRC. The HRC Bureau is composed of one President and four Vice-Presidents, each representing a regional group. Bureau members play a central role in guiding the Council’s work, facilitating its meetings, fostering constructive dialogue among Member States, and ensuring the smooth and effective management of the Council’s agenda throughout the year. Ethiopia’s election reflects its constructive engagement within the United Nations system and its commitment to collaborative, principled, and multilateral approaches to global human rights issues. Ethiopia looks forward to working closely with all regional groups, Member States, and partners to advance the Council’s mandate and strengthen international cooperation in the promotion and protection of human rights. Ethiopia is also currently serving as a Member of the UN Human Rights Council.

Addis Ababa, December 8, 2025 (ENA)—The 20th Nations and Nationalities Day was colorfully celebrated today in the city of Hoseana, in the Central Ethiopia Region, in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and other high-level government officials. In his remarks on the occasion, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed poignantly stated, “We need to not only see Ethiopia’s problems but also its potential,” according to Office of the Prime Minister. It was also announced during the program that the city of Jimma will host the 21st celebration next year.

Addis Ababa, December 8, 2025 (ENA)—President Taye Atseke Slassie has called on all Ethiopians to intensify their efforts toward building a prosperous, respected, and proud nation. In his message on his X page, President Taye emphasized that Ethiopia must strengthen its prosperity, dignity, and national pride by fostering unity grounded in justice and equality. The 20th Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Day is being celebrated today in Hosanna, Central Ethiopia Region, under the theme “Democratic Consensus for National Unity.” Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is also attending the event. The President also extended his congratulations to all nations, nationalities and peoples.

Addis Ababa, December 8, 2025 (ENA)—The Ethiopian Government Communication Service (GCS) has emphasized that nations, nationalities and peoples’ day is crucial in renewing constitutional commitments and reinforcing the full diversity potential of the country. In a statement issued on the eve of the 20th nations, nationalities and peoples’ day, GCS emphasized that Ethiopia is a nation whose rich diversity can be expressed in many forms. According to the statement Ethiopia is an ancient and remarkable country, adorned with a rich diversity of language, culture, ethnicity, religion, political views, age, gender, and more. It is also the proud owner of a constitutional system that values this diversity and transforms it into a source of strength, the statement added. “Through our Constitution, our shared covenant, we have freely agreed to build a common political and economic community, “the statement noted, adding that although Ethiopia’s history of governance spans thousands of years, our modern constitutional practice is relatively young and has not yet reached a century. As a result, it emphasized, the development of the democratic system has not progressed as far as the desire of the people. In recent years, significant efforts have been made to lay the foundations for the country’s constitutional order, and noteworthy achievements have been recorded, it noted. The statement also emphasized that the government continues to work diligently to ensure that human and democratic rights are upheld, transparency and accountability flourish, that strong and independent national institutions are built, and that the people’s demands for development and good governance are also met. In this regard the statement pinpointed that encouraging results are being realized in these areas. Strong democratic institutions are being established to guarantee that the rights recognized in the Constitution are fully respected and protected, it noted. According to the statement, alongside the development of an independent justice system that promotes transparency and accountability, an environment that embraces diversity has been fostered. Every year December 8 or 9, we celebrate the day on which Ethiopians express their culture, traditions, identity, and aspirations, values enshrined in the Constitution and through this celebration, we strengthen mutual understanding and build greater unity. In this year’s celebration, we showcased our diversity in full, the statement emphasized, adding that the occasion also served as an opportunity to mobilize support for the realization of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). “In doing so, we demonstrated that our diversity is indeed our strength and recorded a historic victory for the public,” it noted. According to GCS Ethiopia has developed a system that embraces its diversity, recognizing it as both a source of beauty and strength and for this reason, since the reform, Ethiopia’s path has been seen as bright and its destination as prosperity. “For centuries, our differences have often been used as points of division, both in internal conflicts and through the interference of external actors. Our unity has frequently been challenged, slowing our progress, “the statement stated, noted that in recent years, the people have come to clearly understand that Ethiopia’s hope and prosperity depend on unity, unity enriched by diversity, and diversity strengthened by unity. The statement also pinpointed that democratic consensus and constitutionalism remain our guiding paths and it is with this spirit that we celebrate the 20th Ethiopian Nations, Nationalities and Peoples’ Day.

Addis Ababa, December 8, 2025 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed reaffirmed Ethiopia’s march toward prosperity, declaring that no challenge, provocation, or malicious plot can halt the nation. While addressing a massive public gathering on the 20th Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Day in Hosanna city, Central Ethiopia Regional State, he emphasized Ethiopia’s commitment to turning challenges into opportunities, strengthening national unity, and safeguarding its sovereignty. The Prime Minister stressed that Ethiopia will endure, grow stronger and emerge as a symbol of prosperity for Africa through unity, resilience and shared national purpose. “Ethiopia will stand firm, Ethiopia will prosper and Ethiopia will become a model of prosperity for our African brothers and sisters,” the Prime Minister said. PM Abiy underscored that the central purpose of the annual celebration is reaffirming the shared national aspiration and collective national interest of all Ethiopians, noting that the country’s diversity is not a source of division but the foundation of its strength. He described Ethiopia as a nation painted with many colors, cultures, languages and traditions, built by the shared sweat, wisdom and sacrifice of its people. He emphasized that all citizens must stand as equals, without hierarchy, and work together to pass on a stronger and more prosperous Ethiopia to future generations. Highlighting the country’s ongoing transformation, the Prime Minister said Ethiopia is witnessing visible progress across multiple sectors, including agriculture, mining, tourism, technology and urban development. “Our cities are being renewed, our rural communities are moving forward, our historical heritages are regaining their glow and becoming not only Ethiopia’s pride but Africa’s as well,” he said. He also noted the expansion of irrigation-based farming, the growing effort to achieve food self-sufficiency, and the increasing utilization of Ethiopia’s mineral and tourism resources. PM Abiy emphasized that achieving sustainable prosperity requires more than inherited independence, calling on the younger generation to shoulder both the freedom won through sacrifice and the responsibility of national development. The Prime Minister further called on the youth to intensify their efforts, noting that Ethiopians in different parts of the country and abroad have demonstrated that determination and hard work can transform cities and regions. He urged Ethiopians to see not only the challenges facing the country, but also its immense untapped potential. “Ethiopia is a country with many challenges, but also with vast opportunities that must be unlocked,” he said. PM Abiy warned against attempts by hostile forces to exploit internal differences, stressing the importance of putting national interest above narrow agendas. He called on Ethiopians to strengthen peace through dialogue, reject corruption, uphold the dignity of the people, and remain open to change and modernization. He concluded by appealing to all citizens to preserve unity, prioritize dialogue and cooperation, and protect the historic national momentum already underway. “We started in peace and we will finish in peace,” the Prime Minister said, reaffirming that unity and shared purpose remain the cornerstone of Ethiopia’s future prosperity.

Addis Ababa, December 8, 2025 (ENA)—House of Federation (HoP) Speaker Agegnehu Teshager said Ethiopia’s Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples Day has been celebrated with a variety of activities that promote equality, foster brotherhood, and advance lasting peace and inclusive prosperity. The 20th edition of the festival is taking place in Hosanna city, Central Ethiopia Regional State, with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in attendance. According to Speaker Agegnehu Teshager, the festival’s 19-year history reflects its vital role in strengthening Ethiopia’s multi-national unity. He emphasized that fostering people-to-people relations, promoting brotherhood, and upholding the values of coexistence are essential to advancing the nation-building process. “This festival represents a historic milestone in the journey toward a genuine federal system, where all identities are equally recognized and respected,” Speaker Teshager stated.

Addis Ababa, December 8, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia is marking Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Day with tremendous enthusiasm in Hosena City of the Central Ethiopia Region, where Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is attending the national celebration. Held under the theme “Democratic Consensus for National Unity,” the event has brought together senior federal officials, regional presidents, city mayors, and leaders from various administrative structures, along with invited guests. Since the launch of the country’s national reform, the annual celebration has continued to grow in significance, playing a vital role in strengthening unity, solidarity, and the spirit of brotherhood and sisterhood among Ethiopians.

Addis Ababa, December 7, 2025 (ENA)—Descendants of Africa’s most influential liberation leaders called for renewed African unity, cooperation, and visionary leadership, arguing that the continent stands at a decisive crossroads in 2025. The descendants, alongside government officials, academics, and students, gathered at Ras Mekonnen Hall at Addis Ababa University (AAU) for a high-level panel, exploring Ethiopia's historic and ongoing role in the continent's liberation struggle. Opening the panel, AAU Interim President Samuel Kifle emphasized that Africa continues to grapple with both internal challenges and external pressures, yet 2025 presents a critical turning point. He noted that the continent must choose between asserting itself as a relevant global power or remaining fragmented among 54 states. Samuel stressed that renewed collaboration, guided by the wisdom of past generations, is essential for Africa to realize its aspirations for peace, prosperity, and global leadership. “The wisdom passed down from our forefathers teaches us that united we stand, win, and prosper,” he said, underscoring that Africa’s greatest achievements have always come through collective action. Tesfahun Gobezay, Government Communication Service State Minister, on his part, highlighted Ethiopia’s central role in the Pan-African movement, noting that the presence of liberation leaders’ descendants at AAU is monumental. He added that countries achieve extraordinary developmental milestones when they work together across differences of race, region, and background. Africa’s future success, he said, “will depend heavily on cooperation across the continent,” pointing to the immense potential for mutual development and understanding. Samia Nkrumah, daughter of Ghana’s founding President Kwame Nkrumah, called attention to Africa’s demographic strength, 1.3 billion people on the continent and another 300 million in the diaspora. She urged young Africans to recognize the transformative power of such unity. “If 125 million Ethiopians can build the Renaissance Dam, imagine what 1.6 billion Africans can do,” she said. Nkrumah also encouraged the youth to reclaim their history as a source of courage while confronting new adversaries including poverty, unemployment, underdevelopment, economic domination, and dependency. Moussa Ibrahim Gaddafi, nephew of the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi and Executive Secretary of the African Legacy Foundation, also underscored the responsibility of the new generation, particularly African scholars and students, to carry forward the legacy of cooperation, resilience, and collective vision that defined earlier leaders. He called for deeper collaboration among African states to build practical economic partnerships and advance a unified development agenda.   He reaffirmed the mission of the African Legacy Foundation is to defend the legacy of past leaders, revive a shared continental vision, and inspire a new generation to confront poverty, division, and economic dependence with unity. Throughout the panel, participants emphasized the importance of integrity and responsibility among Africa’s youth, as well as the duty of leaders and elders to guide the next generation. They also called for strengthening Afro-centric education across the continent, insisting that Ethiopia, given its unparalleled liberation heritage, must remain a central pillar of Pan-Africanism.

Addis Ababa, December 7, 2025 (ENA)—House of Federation Speaker Agegnehu Teshager said that Ethiopia’s Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples Day has fostered a positive environment for strengthening national unity and deepening the ties among the country’s diverse communities. Hosena City in the Central Ethiopia Region is hosting a symposium titled ‘Democratic Consensus for National Unity. The event is a prelude to the 20th Ethiopian Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples' Day, which will be officially celebrated tomorrow. In his opening speech, Agegnehu noted that since its inception the annual celebration has enabled Ethiopia’s diverse nations, nationalities, and peoples to showcase their values, experiences, and cultures. “It has helped raise public awareness and build a positive image of the regions,” he emphasized. According to him, since the country’s national reform, the celebration has strengthened and has played an important role in nurturing unity, solidarity, and a spirit of sisterhood and brotherhood among Ethiopians. The Speaker also emphasized that this year’s celebration is particularly significant, taking place after the completion and inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and the launch of several other major national projects. According to him, the occasion coincides with a period in which Ethiopia is registering meaningful development progress. A document focusing on the concept of federalism is expected to be presented and discussed during the symposium, with future directions to be outlined.

Addis Ababa, December 6, 2025 (ENA)—The Amhara Fano Popular Organization (AFPO) announced that it will fight forces engaged in harming Ethiopia's national interest alongside the government. Members of AFPO's leadership have given statement regarding the agreement signed between the organization and the Amhara National Regional Government. They stressed that the conspiracy of external and internal enemies to destabilize Ethiopia will be thwarted. Speaking to the media, Captain Masresha Sete, Head of the AFPO's Foreign Relations Department, stated that the conflict in the region has caused unnecessary suffering on the inhabitants. Recalling that AFPO has signed a peace accord with the regional government to bring this suffering to an end, he said a consensus is reached to jointly facilitate the return of displaced persons and to make the people benefit from the ensuing peace. According to him, the agreement has several provisions, including the release of detained Fano members who do not pursue secessionist agenda; and to rehabilitate those who sustained physical or other injuries. Agreement is also reached to return Fano members capable of working to their jobs, he added. Captain Masresha revealed that Ethiopia's external and internal enemies are actively working to plunge the country into chaos. However, he reiterated that the organization will foil this conspiracy by working along with the government. Adding to this point, Mesfin Abate, AFPO Head of the Intelligence and Security Department, noted that Ethiopia's historic enemies are attempting to undermine Fano's struggle. Stressing the necessity of recognizing the conspiracies of external enemies, he stated that the organization concluded the agreement to partly prevent this plot from succeeding. He further clarified that the negotiations with the Amhara Regional State government culminated in agreement to mainly enhance the welfare of the people. The landmark peace accord is the outcome of consistent appeals by the Federal Government and the Amhara Regional State, urging armed groups in the region to embrace dialogue and resolve their differences peacefully. The agreement between the Amhara Regional State and the Amhara Fano Popular Organization (AFPO) marks a significant step toward stability. It worth recalling that Ethiopia’s federal government and the Amhara region have consistently urged armed groups in the region to pursue dialogue and resolve differences peacefully. As a result of these sustained efforts, the agreement between the regional government and AFAO has emerged as a historic milestone toward achieving lasting peace in the region.

Addis Ababa, December 5, 2025— Scholars at Arba Minch University have stated that Egypt’s long-standing claim of exclusive ownership over the Abbay (Nile) River, rooted in a colonial-era mindset, lacks legitimacy under international water law and other accepted global legal standards. The scholars emphasized that Ethiopia is the source of more than 86 percent of the Nile’s total water flow through the Abbay (Blue Nile), an undeniable hydrological fact that fundamentally challenges Egypt’s narrative of absolute control over the river. Despite this reality, Egypt continues to maintain what the scholars describe as a misguided and outdated position, claiming that no country other than itself should have the right to decide on, or benefit from, the use of the Nile. This colonial-style attitude, they noted, still shapes Egypt’s current policy toward the river. In contrast, Ethiopia has consistently pursued a position based on fair and equitable utilization, grounded in respect for the shared interests of all Nile Basin countries. This cooperative approach, the scholars stressed, is now widely recognized by the international community. Ethiopian News Agency (ENA) spoke with experts from the Water Technology Institute of Arba Minch University regarding Egypt’s stance and Ethiopia’s legal and equitable approach to Nile utilization. Dr. Engineer Tamiru Tessema, Scientific Director of the institute, explained that Egypt’s narrative surrounding the Nile is not only historically flawed but also incompatible with modern international norms. He described Egypt’s continued insistence on this narrative as an agenda that no longer belongs to the present era and should not be raised in contemporary discourse. He further noted that Ethiopia’s right to develop and utilize the river in a manner that does not cause significant harm to downstream countries is clearly protected under international law. Yet, he said, Egypt’s true aim appears to be to keep Ethiopia as a passive observer rather than an active and rightful user of its natural resources. For this reason, Egypt worked for years to obstruct the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), often acting in direct contradiction to international principles of transboundary water utilization. Despite persistent destabilizing efforts, he said, the dam was completed through the unwavering resolve and collective sacrifice of the Ethiopian people. However, even after the GERD reached full completion, Dr. Tamiru added, Egypt has continued what he described as hostile and destabilizing actions against Ethiopia. He stressed that such conduct is entirely unacceptable and deserves firm condemnation. Under international transboundary water law, he explained, countries have the right to reasonable and equitable use of shared rivers in a manner that does not inflict significant harm on downstream states. Egypt’s objective, however, reflects absolute exclusivity, built on the idea that no other country should benefit from the Nile besides itself. For this reason, the scholars reaffirmed that Egypt’s attempt to monopolize the Nile through a colonial narrative lacks acceptance under international law and recognized global norms. They further stated that while Egypt’s rigid position directly undermines Ethiopia’s legitimate right to develop and use its natural resources, Ethiopia continues to follow a legally sound and internationally recognized path based on equitable utilization principles. Dr. Elias Gebeyewu, Director of the university’s Water Resources Research Center, also stated that Egypt’s hardline stance on the Nile and the GERD reflects a colonial ideology that is outdated and unsuitable for the modern era. He added that Egypt’s repeated actions to derail negotiations related to the GERD and to revive colonial-era thinking run directly against the realities of the 21st century. In this regard, he recalled that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia has made it clear that such persistent interference by Egyptian officials is incompatible with today’s global political and legal order.