Addis Ababa, January 24, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has called on Ethiopians to strengthen national unity in order to safeguard the country’s resilience and sovereignty. In a message shared on social media, the Prime Minister likened Ethiopia to a mother who never abandons her children, regardless of circumstances. The message came as the Ethiopian Air Force (EAF), hailed as the “eagle of the skies” and a steadfast guarantor of regional peace—celebrated its 90th anniversary in a grand ceremony attended by the Prime Minister himself, Commander-in-Chief of the Ethiopian National Defense Force. He emphasized that just as a mother remains steadfast in both prosperity and hardship, Ethiopia remains an irreplaceable homeland to all her citizens. “Whether in prosperity or in hardship, a mother never abandons her children because of her motherhood,” Prime Minister Abiy wrote. “Realizing that Ethiopia is an irreplaceable mother to her children, it is expected of all of us, by uniting together, to affirm Ethiopia’s resilience and sovereignty as did the heroes of yesterday.” The Prime Minister’s message underscores the importance of collective responsibility, unity, and shared commitment to preserving the nation’s independence and enduring strength.

Addis Ababa, January 24, 2026 (ENA) – The Ethiopian Airforce (EAF), which is one of Africa’s earliest established air forces, will continue to set the standard in aerial excellence,” Ethiopian Air Force Commander Lieutenant General Yilma Merdasa said today. The Air Force (EAF) has been a longstanding symbol of national pride, technological advancement, and a steadfast guarantor of regional peace, he added. The 90th Founding Anniversary of the Air Force that highlights historic achievements of Ethiopian Airforce and the its ongoing role in shaping Ethiopia’s aerospace future, is attended by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Commander-in-Chief of the Ethiopian Defense Force, and other dignitaries. Speaking at the 90th Founding Anniversary of the Air Force, Lieutenant General Yilma Merdasa said “the Ethiopian Air Force has stood for 90 years as a shield in the sky — protecting our sovereignty, supporting peacekeeping missions, and responding to national challenges.” And “as one of Africa’s earliest established air forces, we will continue to set the standard in aerial excellence,” he stressed. The anniversary was highlighted by the Black Line Air Show, a spectacular display of precision, skill, and aeronautical innovation. The show not only showcased the Air Force’s operational capabilities but also underscored its role in driving industrial growth, technological advancement, and aerospace innovation. The celebration has attracted African Air Force commanders, chiefs of staff, representatives from global aviation companies, and international visitors, reinforcing Ethiopia’s position as a hub for collaboration in aerospace. Lieutenant General Yilma also emphasized the broader significance of such events saying, “air shows are more than entertainment — they ignite national imagination, inspire the next generation, motivate students to innovate, and showcase our technological capabilities. They are strategic instruments demonstrating national pride and international relevance.” The anniversary also highlighted Ethiopia’s commitment to the future of aerospace development. Furthermore, he noted that aircraft featured in the show represent not just operational platforms but pathways to industrial transformation, joint venture training, infrastructure development, and integration of advanced air capabilities. “To the planners, pilots, ground crews, technicians, and exhibition coordinators—your expertise and dedication allow the world to witness Ethiopian excellence,” Yilma added. The 90th-anniversary celebrations reaffirmed Ethiopian Air Force’s enduring mission: To honor its past, command the present, and shape the future of Ethiopia and the region.

Addis Ababa, January 24, 2026 (ENA)— The Ethiopian Air Force (EAF), hailed as the eagle of the skies and a steadfast guarantor of regional peace, is celebrating its 90th anniversary with grandeur in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Commander-in-Chief of the Ethiopian Defense Force. Standing at a historic peak, the Air Force has long symbolized Ethiopia’s sovereignty, resilience, and national pride. Today, it is more than a storied institution — a modern, formidable pillar of nation-building, shaped by the ongoing reforms and the Medemer governance philosophy. Through a strategic institutional modernization program, the Ethiopian Air Force has evolved from its former limited operational capacity into a world-class force. Equipped with advanced fighter jets, cutting-edge technologies, and highly trained personnel, it now serves not only as a protector of Ethiopia’s skies but also as a guardian of peace across the East African region. “The Air Force we witness today reflects Ethiopia’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding national interests and regional stability,” Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed remarked during the ceremony. The 90th-anniversary celebrations highlighted the Air Force’s remarkable journey of resilience, innovation, and service. As a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s defense strategy, the EAF embodies the spirit of national pride and the success of institutional reforms aimed at ensuring security and fostering regional peace. To the men and women of the Ethiopian Air Force, past and present, and to all Ethiopians, the 90th anniversary is a testament to dedication, heroism, and unwavering patriotism. Happy 90th Anniversary to the Ethiopian Air Force —may its wings of excellence continue to soar high, and Ethiopia take pride forever in the courage and commitment of her children.

Addis Ababa, January 24, 2026 (ENA)— Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh has lauded the breathtaking beauty and serene atmosphere of Bahir Dar as he arrived in the lakeside city to engage in high-level deliberations on justice and peace. On his social media post, the Deputy Prime Minister shared his profound appreciation for the city's unique charm and the gracious reception he received, remarking: "We have arrived in Bahir Dar—a city where the majesty of water is embodied in Lake Tana, the beauty of greenery is reflected in its palm trees, cleanliness serves as its adornment, and a refreshing breeze defines its character.'', he said. He further stated that ''I extend my heartfelt and sincere gratitude for the warm welcome accorded to us upon our arrival at the newly expanded Bahir Dar International Airport. '' The deputy Prime Minister is in Bahir Dar city to take part in the International Conference on the Rule of Law and Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanisms for Sustainable Peace and Development, jointly organized by the Amhara Regional Supreme Court and Bahir Dar University. The International Conference on the Rule of Law and Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanisms for Sustainable Peace and Development focuses on the critical intersection of judicial systems and non-traditional conflict resolution. Key events include high-level panel discussions and scholarly deliberations on how alternative dispute resolution (ADR) can bolster the rule of law and foster long-term regional stability. The forum brings together esteemed legal practitioners, academics, and policymakers to evaluate the integration of customary and modern legal frameworks, particularly in the context of Ethiopia's socio-economic development.

Addis Ababa, January 23, 2026 (ENA)—African military attachés have hailed the Ethiopian Air Force (EAF) as a leading model for air forces across the continent, citing its rapid modernization, growing self-reliance, and decisive contribution to regional peace and security. The recognition came during Aviation Expo 2026, officially launched by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and First Lady Zinash Tayachew as part of the ETAF90 celebrations, marking the 90th anniversary of the Ethiopian Air Force. The anniversary is being commemorated from January 23 to 27, 2026, highlighting nine decades of sacrifice, resilience, and transformative achievement. Organized within the framework of the milestone celebrations, Aviation Expo 2026 brought together defense officials and military delegations from across Africa. Participants toured Ethiopian Air Force facilities and engaged in high-level discussions on aviation development, defense cooperation, and capacity building—underscoring Ethiopia’s growing influence in continental security affairs. Colonel Mothusi Chelenyane, Defence Attaché at the Embassy of Botswana in Addis Ababa, praised the Ethiopian Air Force for its remarkable progress in aviation, engineering, and operational capability. He described the EAF as one of the fastest-developing air forces in Africa and an emerging continental leader. Colonel Chelenyane emphasized the EAF’s strong commitment to self-reliance, particularly its advanced capacity in aircraft maintenance, modification, and key engineering services. He noted that Ethiopia’s experience offers valuable lessons for other African nations seeking to strengthen their own air force capabilities. Highlighting Africa’s persistent peace and security challenges, he stressed the importance of regional collaboration, adding that the Ethiopian Air Force presents significant opportunities for cooperation and mutually beneficial partnerships aimed at addressing shared security threats. Echoing this view, Mackenzy Tjivera, Defence Attaché at the Embassy of Namibia in Ethiopia, stated that the Ethiopian Air Force is not only enhancing its national capabilities but is also contributing meaningfully to the strengthening of air forces across Africa through cooperation. He noted that the EAF is widely welcomed by African countries and plays a critical role in advancing collective security, emphasizing that sustainable peace cannot be achieved through isolated efforts. According to him, collaboration in aviation and air force operations is essential, and Ethiopia is making a positive and tangible contribution to continental stability. Similarly, Colonel Aristide Anguilet, Defence Attaché of Gabon, commended the Ethiopian Air Force’s progress and institutional determination. He described the EAF as a valuable national asset and a strong example for other African countries, adding that he was deeply impressed by what he observed during the event. Colonel Anguilet further noted that the participation of numerous African nations in the expo reflects a shared commitment to learning from Ethiopia’s experience and strengthening cooperation—reinforcing the growing importance of continental partnership in defense and security.

Addis Ababa, January 23, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has underscored the importance of the Aviation Expo 2026 in strengthening Ethiopia’s role as a leading aviation hub on the African continent. In a message shared on his social media platforms, the Prime Minister said he attended the opening ceremony of the Aviation Expo 2026, which was organized as part of the celebrations marking the 90th anniversary of the Ethiopian Air Force. “Today, I attended the opening of the Aviation Expo 2026 as part of the celebrations marking 90 years of the Ethiopian Air Force,” PM Abiy stated. Held under the theme: “Flying into the Future, Building a Shared Tomorrow,” the expo brought together local and international stakeholders to promote advancements in aviation technology, enhance professional skills, and strengthen regional and global cooperation. Prime Minister Abiy emphasized that the event reflects Ethiopia’s growing influence and leadership in the aviation sector, noting that initiatives such as the expo play a key role in positioning the country as a central aviation hub in Africa.

Addis Ababa, January 23, 2026 (ENA): - Ethiopia’s National Dialogue Commission (ENDC) is increasingly recognized across the continent as a premier locally driven framework serving as continental model in resolving deep-seated political and identity-based conflicts. Having Prioritized internal solutions over external mediation, the process has positioned Ethiopia as a potential continental benchmark for sustainable peacebuilding and national stability. In an exclusive interview with Pulse of Africa, Yonas Adaye, Commissioner of the Ethiopian National Dialogue, emphasized that the initiative is specifically structured to confront the systemic root causes of the country’s recurring conflicts. He identified constitutional disagreements, governance failures, marginalization, corruption, and the politicization of ethnic identity as core challenges that the process seeks to resolve. “The national dialogue is not about managing crises,” the commissioner said, adding, “It is about addressing the structural problems that have continued to reproduce conflict for decades.” He further explained that the process is nationwide and citizen centered, designed to rebuild social cohesion through open discussion, mutual respect, and collective truth seeking. Unlike elections or short-term peace deals, the dialogue focuses on long standing issues that undermine coexistence and stability, he added. Yonas also stressed that national ownership is the defining strength of Ethiopia’s approach, noting that many past dialogue initiatives in Africa and the Middle East failed because they were shaped by foreign interests or dominated by political elites. However, this national dialogue belongs to Ethiopians and anchored in local realities and drove by the voices of citizens, he underscored. While supported by state institutions, the ENDC conducts broad consultations with communities, political parties, civil society organizations, religious institutions, media outlets, and the Ethiopian diaspora. According to the commissioner, consultations with Ethiopians living abroad revealed strong convergence around the need for constitutional reform. Many participants raised concerns that ethnic based federalism has deepened divisions and weakened national cohesion. Governance gaps, corruption, identity politics, and questions surrounding dual citizenship were also repeatedly highlighted during diaspora engagements. According to Yonas, the dialogue is expected to deliver major outcomes. Including national consensus on key issues, renewed trust between the state and society as well as the establishment of dialogue as a permanent political culture to replace zero sum politics and armed confrontation. He further linked Ethiopia’s internal dialogue to regional stability, arguing that domestic unity strengthens foreign policy credibility and supports peaceful cooperation on shared resources, trade corridors, and regional integration. “Africa’s problems should be solved through African led mechanisms,” the commissioner said, adding that cooperation and solidarity values must guide conflict resolution efforts on the continent. Responding to concerns that dialogue recommendations might not be implemented, he said, adding political legitimacy in Ethiopia is increasingly tied to performance and responsiveness to public demands. “When people speak and are heard, implementation becomes a matter of state credibility,” he said. As Ethiopia moves forward with its national dialogue, observers across Africa and beyond continue to closely follow the process as a possible model for conflict prevention, reconciliation, and state renewal on the continent.

Addis Ababa, January 23, 2026 (ENA): - Ethiopia and India have engaged in discussions to strengthen their strategic and economic partnership. State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Hadera Abera, met today with Sudhakar Dalela, Secretary for Economic Relations at India’s Ministry of External Affairs, to discuss deepening bilateral cooperation. Ambassador Hadera emphasized the importance of the recent high-level visit by India’s Prime Minister to Ethiopia, which elevated the relationship to a strategic partnership. He stressed the need for effective implementation of agreements reached during that visit. According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the two officials also exchanged views on enhancing collaboration within multilateral platforms such as BRICS, and reaffirmed India’s ongoing support for Ethiopia’s efforts to join the World Trade Organization.

Addis Ababa, January 23, 2026 (ENA): - Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and First Lady Zinash Tayachew officially attended the opening ceremony of the Aviation Expo 2026. The Expo was held as part of the broader ETAF90 celebrations marking 90 years of the Ethiopian Air Force. According to a post on the Office of the Prime Minister, the Expo is organized under the theme: “Flying Forward, Building a Shared Future”. It showcases Ethiopia’s commitment to advancing aviation and aerospace development, strengthening international partnerships, and positioning the country as a regional and continental hub for innovation, skills development, and sustainable growth in the aviation sector.  

Addis Ababa, January 22, 2026 (ENA)—German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said that Ethiopia has demonstrated a strong sense of responsibility for peace and security in the Horn of Africa, noting the global significance of maritime stability in the Red Sea. Speaking at a joint press briefing held by Ethiopia's Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos and himself, the Minster noted that “Ethiopia showed us a great responsibility for peace and security in the Horn of Africa. The Bab el-Mandeb and the Red Sea are lifelines of global trade; and therefore the security of the maritime passage along the Red Sea coast is a strategic interest of Germany”. The Minister also said Germany clearly understands Ethiopia’s need for reliable access to sea and port infrastructure. On regional security, he acknowledged Ethiopia’s longstanding role in Somalia and the fight against terrorism. “Ethiopia shares a long border with Somalia, where the terrorist group Al-Shabaab operates with atrocious attacks against the population. Ethiopia has long been strongly engaged in peace and security efforts in Somalia and has contributed to the AU mission there,” he said. Germany is very engaged at the EU level to secure funding for that important mission as it is in its interest to fight terrorism, which continues to be a threat to Europe as well. Furthermore, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul described Ethiopia as a major political and economic force in Africa, highlighting its rapid transformation and reform trajectory. “If you had visited Addis Ababa 15 years ago, you would have seen only a few skyscrapers. Today, we are in one of the most modern cities in Africa. Ethiopia has embarked on a path of growth and reform.” Pointing to Ethiopia’s economic potential, Wadephul said Germany sees strong opportunities for expanded economic cooperation. “As the second most populous nation in Africa, Ethiopia offers huge potential for the German economy. That is why I came with a business delegation—to explore the full possibilities for cooperation.” According to him, major projects such as the new airport under construction in Bishoftu are examples where German companies stand ready to share their know-how and expertise, which of course reflects a good investment climate. Congratulating Ethiopia on being selected to preside over COP-32, the Minister said Germany will be a reliable partner in supporting Ethiopia in the preparation of the conference. For his part, Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos said the talks were comprehensive and forward-looking, reflecting the depth of bilateral relations between the two countries. He noted that Ethiopia and Germany are celebrating 120 years of diplomatic relations, describing the partnership as longstanding and strong. The Minister recalled that recent engagements between the leaders of the two countries have created fresh momentum for enhanced cooperation. “The two leaders agreed to jump-start existing bilateral mechanisms, including political consultations and the Joint Ministerial Commission.” According to him, the ministers have agreed to strengthen cooperation in priority areas. “We agreed to further strengthen political, economic and development cooperation, giving priority to agriculture, education, labour, vocational training and natural resources,” he said. The two sides also discussed regional political and security situations in Africa and beyond, and agreed to cooperate on multilateral issues including climate change, security, counter-terrorism and strengthening multilateralism.

Addis Ababa, January 22, 2026 (ENA)—The House of People's Representatives (HPR) has approved today proclamations on extradition of convicted persons and transfer of wanted criminals with the governments of China, Brazil, and South Africa. The proclamation on the extradition of convicted persons included the agreements signed between the governments of China and Ethiopia as well as the governments of Brazil and Ethiopia. The extradition agreement for wanted persons is signed between the governments of Ethiopia and South Africa. Speaking in favor of the endorsements of the proclamations tabled, HPR Standing Committee on Legal and Justice Affairs of the House of People's Representatives Chairperson, Etsegenet Mengistu, said the proclamations will help to effectively rehabilitate convicted persons in their home countries and reintegrate into their communities. According to her, the approved proclamations align with international laws and also help address criminal cases under legal frameworks. Moreover, the joint legal framework would enable the trade and investment cooperations between Ethiopia and respective countries, especially China, by controlling criminals that try to exploit the opportunities.

Addis Ababa, January 22, 2026 (ENA)—The African Union (AU) has commended Germany as a trusted and strategic partner, highlighting its leading role as the Union’s largest bilateral partner. The commendation followed a joint engagement between AUC Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and Germany’s Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs, Johann Wadephul, at the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa. Minister Wadephul is in Ethiopia on a working visit, during which he held talks with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. The discussions focused on further strengthening the longstanding partnership between Ethiopia and Germany and expanding cooperation across priority areas. As part of the visit, the German Foreign Minister also met on Thursday with AUC Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf to discuss bilateral and multilateral issues of shared interest. Following the meeting, Chairperson Youssouf described the discussions as “very constructive,” noting that Germany remains the African Union’s largest bilateral contributor to the Commission’s funds. He said Berlin has committed up to 88 million Euro to support African Union programmes over the 2026–2027 period. Youssouf highlighted Germany’s significant role in promoting peace and security across the continent, including its leadership as chair of the Contact and Coordination Group for the Great Lakes Region. He also commended Germany for maintaining cooperation with Sahel countries—Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—despite recent unconstitutional changes of government in those countries. The AUC Chairperson further acknowledged Germany’s support for key continental initiatives, including the African Union Border Programme, AFRIPOL, and its leading role in the G20 Compact with Africa, which aims to mobilize private investment and create jobs across the continent. Stressing the importance of the partnership, Youssouf said the African Union highly values its relationship with Germany and praised Berlin’s leadership in global decision-making, particularly at a time when the international order is facing growing uncertainty and disruption. He concluded by calling for reason and wisdom to prevail in global affairs and thanked the German Foreign Minister for his visit to the African Union. In a separate statement, Germany’s Federal Ministry for Foreign Affairs underscored Africa’s rising global significance, describing the continent as an emerging center of gravity in a multipolar world. The ministry reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to deepening cooperation with the African Union and emphasized a shared belief in a rules-based international order and multilateral solutions. “In a multipolar world, Africa is increasingly emerging as a centre of gravity. We therefore also want to further expand our cooperation with the African Union. We are united in our commitment to a rules-based international order and cooperation in which multilateral solutions are considered preferable to nations going it alone,” the statement said.

Addis Ababa, January 22, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today held talks with Johann Wadephul, Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany, focusing on further strengthening the longstanding partnership between Ethiopia and Germany. The discussions covered key areas of bilateral cooperation, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to deepening collaboration across various spheres. “Today, I welcomed Johann Wadephul, Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Germany, for meaningful discussions on further strengthening the partnership between Ethiopia and Germany,” the Premier wrote on social media cannels.

Addis Ababa, January 21, 2026 (ENA)— State Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Hadera Abera held talks with Norwegian Deputy Foreign Minister Andreas Kravik at his office today to explore ways of further strengthening bilateral relations between Ethiopia and Norway. During the meeting, Ambassador Hadera highlighted the long-standing bilateral relations between Ethiopia and Norway and expressed Ethiopia’s desire to further consolidate cooperation across areas of mutual interest. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during the meeting he underscored Ethiopia’s Climate-Resilient Green Economy (CRGE) Strategy, noting Norway’s rich experience in afforestation and underscoring the importance of strengthening partnership in line with Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative.     The state minister also briefed his counterpart on the government’s ongoing economic liberalization efforts and encouraged Norwegian enterprises to explore investment opportunities in Ethiopia. For his part, Deputy Minister Kravik reaffirmed the multifaceted nature of Ethiopia–Norway relations and stressed the importance of deepening trade and investment cooperation to further strengthen bilateral ties. Both sides also exchanged views on regional peace and security and agreed to work closely together in bilateral and multilateral forums on areas of shared interest.

Addis Ababa, January 21, 2026 (ENA)—The Ethio-India strategic partnership agreements are progressing well, following the recent historic visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Ethiopia, according to Anil Kumar Rai, India’s Ambassador to Ethiopia. It is to be recalled that Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed to elevate bilateral ties to a strategic partnership, focusing on deepening cooperation across multiple spheres. The two leaders decided to elevate the relationship from friendly to strategic partnership, which requires high level engagement at the political leadership level, Ambassador Rai noted. The agreement has become even more important because last month, in mid of December, the leaders decided to elevate the relationship from bilateral to strategic partnership during the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Ethiopia. A strategic partnership requires continuous, constant high-level engagement at the political leadership level, Ambassador elaborated, adding that the implementation of the visa waiver agreement for diplomatic passport holders will enable strategic consultations. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Ambassador Rai said Ethiopia and India are taking significant steps in the implementation of the other agreements signed by the two countries too. The agreement to implement visa waiver for holders of diplomatic passport has been realized; and this shows the trust and confidence between the two countries, he stated. “We have signed the agreement to implement the bilateral visa waiver for the holders of diplomatic passport; and this means that those who hold the diplomatic passport, can travel to each other's country without obtaining a visa.” This is a very important move as it demonstrates the trust and confidence between the countries, he stressed. According to the Ambassador, the agreement is expected to further ease diplomatic travel, promote efficient interaction, and strengthen cooperation between Ethiopia and India, reflecting the growing strategic partnership between the two nations. Moreover, the two sides have also signed agreements focused on tech, trade, health, establishment of a data center for Ethiopia's Foreign Ministry, AI training, customs cooperation, and G20 debt restructuring, among others. Out of various outcomes that were agreed during the visit of the Prime Minister, India has already supported Ethiopia in the G20 debt restructuring process, Ambassador Rai said. The other aspect is creation of a data center for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and the work for creation of the data center is going to start shortly, he added. “We are working on all action points, which emerged out of the meeting; and we are trying to ensure that the decisions taken by the leaderships are implemented in a time bound manner.” For Ambassador Rai, Ethiopia is an important partner from the Global South, and there are multiple areas where both the countries can cooperate.

Addis Ababa, January 21, 2026 (ENA)—The House of Peoples' Representatives (HPR) has made critical amendments to the national electoral law, integrating digital technology to ensure the upcoming general elections are transparent, free, and fair. The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) recently confirmed that voter registration for the 7th national general election will run from February 14 to March 16, 2026, with polling day scheduled for June 1, 2026. In preparation, the Board is finalizing logistics, staff training, and public awareness initiatives. In an exclusive interview with ENA, HPR Speaker Tagese Chafo reaffirmed the NEBE’s status as an independent constitutional body. He noted that the Board’s latest readiness report indicates it is well-prepared to execute the elections in line with constitutional mandates. According to the speaker, the update streamlines the registration process for both candidates and voters through digital integration. The Speaker noted that Parliament has proactively refined the legal framework to ensure the electoral process is peaceful, credible, and fair. A primary focus has been the amendment of Proclamation No. 1162/2018, he added. Speaker Tagese also emphasized the vital role of civil society in monitoring the polls and providing voter education. This legislative update integrates digital technology into the Board’s core operations, specifically streamlining the registration of candidates and voters. Beyond technological advancements, Tagese highlighted the essential role of civil society organizations in monitoring the process and fostering voter education. He further affirmed that the government is responding to the NEBE's requirements by mobilizing resources to enhance the transparency and integrity of the vote. The Speaker underscored that efforts are underway to ensure the 7th national general election contributes to a broader national consensus and to achieve this, he called upon all stakeholders to fulfill their responsibilities in making the democratic process a success for the nation.

Addis Ababa, January 20, 2026 (ENA)— The Council of Ministers, chaired by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, today deliberated on and approved a series of important decisions, addressing customs reform, investment incentives, and entrepreneurship development. During its 52nd regular session, the Council first discussed a draft amendment to the existing Customs Proclamation. Given that the current proclamation has been in force for many years, the proposed amendment aims to align customs regulations with the evolving landscape of international trade. In a social media post, Office of the Prime Minister noted that the revision is intended to support Ethiopia’s expanding manufacturing sector, promote legal trade, and encourage investment. Following deliberations, the Council unanimously agreed to submit the draft amendment to the House of Peoples’ Representatives for further consideration. Next, the Council examined a draft regulation on tax and customs duty incentives for investment. The regulation seeks to introduce a performance-based investment incentive framework that takes into account capital utilization. It particularly targets priority sectors that significantly contribute to national economic growth or require substantial capital investment. After incorporating additional inputs, the Council unanimously decided that the regulation will take effect upon its publication in the Federal Negarit Gazeta. Finally, the Council reviewed the draft entrepreneurship development policy. The policy is designed to ensure the sustainability of entrepreneurship activities in line with national development objectives. It aims to establish a supportive entrepreneurship ecosystem that promotes innovation, value addition, and a strong entrepreneurial culture. Following an extensive review and the inclusion of inputs, the Council unanimously approved the policy, declaring it effective as of January 20, 2026, the date of its endorsement.

Addis Ababa, January 18, 2026 (ENA)—African and international leaders have agreed to consolidate all mediation efforts under an African Union (AU)-led framework to address the protracted conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The decision followed a high-level, two-day summit in Lomé, chaired by Togo’s President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, the AU-mandated mediator for the Great Lakes crisis. Leaders endorsed a unified mediation structure, including the creation of an Independent Joint Secretariat to support the AU Panel of Facilitators, which includes former presidents from Nigeria, Kenya, Central African Republic, Botswana, and Ethiopia. The summit called on all parties to implement existing peace commitments, prioritize political dialogue over military action, and resume negotiations under the Doha process with the Congolese government and the M23 armed group. Leaders also welcomed prior diplomatic efforts, including U.S.-brokered agreements between DRC and Rwanda and the Doha Declaration and Framework Agreement, while highlighting the Paris Conference on the Great Lakes as a milestone in mobilizing international support. In a statement on X, Gnassingbé emphasized that only a coordinated, durable political solution can restore peace, security, and stability for the Great Lakes region. Violence in eastern Congo has persisted for decades, displacing millions and making it one of Africa’s most enduring humanitarian crises.

Addis Ababa, January 18, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia’s national dialogue, which has involved all segments of the society, has reached its critical and concluding phase, according to House of People’s Representatives Speaker Tagesse Chafo. Established by the House of People’s Representatives under Proclamation No. 1265/2022, the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission is an independent institution with the mandate to conduct inclusive dialogue aimed at resolving Ethiopia’s fundamental differences of ideas and disagreements. The Commission is working to build a national consensus by conducting broad-based and inclusive public consultations on fundamental national issues. In this regard, it has successfully carried out identifying participant and agenda-collection processes on major national matters suitable for dialogue, and has now reached the final stage of the process, the Speaker noted. He told the Ethiopian News Agency that the National Dialogue Commission is conducting an active dialogue process with the meaningful participation of Ethiopians who are deeply concerned about national issues. According to him, the Commission has been carrying out successful work across regional states, city administrations, and the Diaspora by collecting agendas and identifying participants for the main dialogue process. He noted that a wide range of stakeholders, including civil society organizations, university instructors, and other segments of society, have taken part in the dialogue process. As a result, this is a unique and successful consultation process in which Ethiopians contributed ideas that they believed serve the best interests of their country. Speaker Tagesse further stated that a clear methodology has been designed to implement and guide the final phase of the dialogue, and called on all stakeholders to fulfill their responsibilities so that the remaining work can be completed successfully. As issues related to history, law, and governance can be addressed through dialogue, the national dialogue presents a crucial opportunity to do so, he added. Speaker Tagesse has called on stakeholders in Tigray region to actively participate in the ongoing dialogue process and play their role in ensuring its success. Ethiopia is a country endowed with great potential and resources, he noted, emphasizing that Ethiopians can achieve remarkable outcomes through dialogue, discussion, and mutual understanding. The House of People’s Representatives has been providing continuous support for the national dialogue process, beginning from enacting laws and establishing institutions that closely follow its day-to-day activities. The Speaker finally affirmed that the government is ready to implement the outcome of the dialogue that represents the will and decision of the people.

Addis Ababa, January 18, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia is a very important BRICS partner that brings a lot of knowledge and expertise in all aspects of the BRICS activities, India’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Anil Kuma Rai, told ENA. Recall that India has assumed the BRICS chairmanship on 1 January, 2026. In an exclusive interview with ENA, the Ambassador said Ethiopia is a very important partner of BRICS that brings a lot of knowledge and expertise in all aspects of the BRICS activities. The agendas for the year are to promote innovation and to create an ecosystem where the developing countries have their own way of dealing with things, he added. As a major developing country of the African continent, Ethiopia is going to participate in most of the important events which are taking place throughout the year under BRICS. For Ambassador Rai, Ethiopia’s participation strengthens the ideas of South-South solidarity, and also brings its rich experience. The country brings rich experience in the form of green growth, urban renewal, green technologies; and also the leadership, which is needed to ensure peace during the turbulent times, he further explained. With regard to cooperation between Ethiopia and India, Rai emphasized that Ethiopia is an important partner from the Global South, and there are multiple areas where both countries can cooperate. Health is an important sector; so are agriculture and food security, he noted, adding that “in agriculture, we have specific technologies which are related to Nano-fertilizers, seed technology, food processing technology and climate tolerant varieties.” Regarding innovation, the Ambassador said India is hosting the artificial intelligence impact summit in February, for which it has extended invitation to the Ethiopian government. Artificial intelligence, which is also one of the agenda items for the government of Ethiopia, is a sector where we can work together, he stated. On Ethiopia’s Homegrown Economic Reform, Ambassador Rai said the banking and financial sector and fin-tech sector has been opened up, noting that this is a sector where India is very strong and ready to share experiences. India has recently successfully completed its digital strategy through digital public infrastructure, which gives a digital identity to citizens, and then becomes a backbone for delivery of services, he said. “We have committed ourselves to support Ethiopia in this direction.” Ethiopia recently launched Digital Ethiopia 2030 (DE2030) in December 2025, building on Digital Ethiopia 2025 to drive comprehensive digital transformation, focusing on digital sovereignty, citizen-centric services, inclusive growth, digital infrastructure, and positioning Ethiopia as a tech hub.