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Politics
Barbadian PM Hails GERD as Model for Ending Africa’s Energy Poverty
Jan 30, 2026 1129
Addis Ababa, January 30, 2026 (ENA) -Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley has hailed Ethiopian Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a powerful symbol of African self-determination, declaring it a living proof that the continent can defeat energy poverty even when locked out of international financing. Speaking in a widely watched interview with a globally renowned South African comedian, writer, producer, and television host, Trevor Noah, Mottley said Africa’s most urgent development crisis remains access to electricity, an issue often ignored amid global debates about artificial intelligence and advanced technology. “When the world is talking about technology, 600 million people out of 1.4 billion in Africa do not have electricity,” she said. Mottley pointed to Ethiopia’s flagship hydropower project as a historic achievement born out of resistance and resolve. She noted that major international financial institutions refused to finance the dam, forcing Ethiopians to rely entirely on domestic resources. “They turned inward between the central bank—the National Bank of Ethiopia) and ordinary citizens,” she said. “Citizens buying bonds, citizens giving donations. This is the 21st-century Adwa.” Her reference evoked the 1896 Battle of Adwa, where Ethiopian forces defeated Italian colonial troops, a victory that electrified the Black world and became a cornerstone of Pan-African consciousness. “Adwa showed the world that Black people could achieve something after centuries of domination and subjugation,” Mottley said, adding that the triumph helped lay the foundation for Pan-Africanism and later independence movements, including those inspired by the 1945 Manchester Pan-African Congress. Describing the sheer scale of the GERD, Mottley said the dam, the largest in Africa—stretches nearly two kilometers wide and rises approximately 550 feet. “You have to see it to believe it. I have never seen water move at that speed,” she said. Underscoring the political and symbolic weight of the project, she added: “They did it when the world said no. It took 14 years—but they did it.” Mottley warned that the same global systems that denied Ethiopia financing continue to reflect colonial-era power structures, cautioning that without urgent reform, today’s international economic and political order threatens the long-term stability of nations across the Global South. Her remarks positioned the GERD not only as an engineering feat, but as a continental manifesto—a statement that Africa can finance, build, and control its own future.
UN Commends Brave Ethiopian Peacekeepers for Service, Sacrifice
Jan 29, 2026 1007
Addis Ababa, January 29, 2026 (ENA) -The United Nations has praised the "brave" Ethiopian women and men peacekeepers for their service and sacrifice as the country maintains its longstanding central role in United Nations (UN) peacekeeping operations. Ethiopia continues to maintain a leading role in United Nations peacekeeping, sustaining its position as one of the world's top troop-contributing countries with a decades-long history of commitment to global and regional stability. “Over 1,500 military and police officers from Ethiopia are serving for peace with United Nations Peacekeeping, leaving their families to protect those most at risk,” according a statement from the UN. The United Nations appreciated the brave Ethiopian women and men for their service and sacrifice as part of honoring the service and sacrifice of all peacekeepers, and commended the contributions from all the countries. Since 1948 more than two million people have served as UN Peacekeepers in hotspots around the world, including more than 65,000 today, the statement further noted. They provide security, stability and hope for a better future to war-affected communities. And they often do so at great personal risk and under very harsh conditions, leaving their families behind thousands of hundreds of miles away from their homelands, it added. According to the statement, more than 4, 400 peacekeepers have lost their lives serving under the UN flag. The United Nations does not have its own military or police force, it said, adding that it relies on individual UN Member States to contribute personnel to its peacekeeping operations. Today, UN peacekeepers hail from more than 100 troop and police contributing countries, but they are united in their goal to help provide security and stability to some of the most vulnerable people on earth. Collectively, they perform acts of courage and compassion every day. Beyond their regular mandated activities – such as protecting civilians and supporting peace processes -- peacekeepers often carry out humanitarian efforts such as delivering free medical and veterinary care, providing access to water; supporting schools and orphanages; building roads and bridges and other key infrastructure which benefit communities and bring people together. “The United Nations honors the service and sacrifice of all peacekeepers and commends the contributions from all the countries that provide our peacekeeping operations with military and police personnel,” the statement concluded.
Ethiopia Strategic Anchor in Regional Diplomacy – Swedish Ambassador
Jan 29, 2026 1712
Addis Ababa, January 29, 2026 (ENA) - Sweden is actively pivoting its long-standing partnership with Ethiopia from development aid toward a robust framework of trade and investment, seeking to capitalize on the nation’s burgeoning economic potential. During a gathering marking the 70th anniversary of Rotary Ethiopia, Magnus Lennartsson, Sweden’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the African Union, delivered a keynote address celebrating seven decades of humanitarian excellence. In his speech ,he portrayed the historical and political bonds between Stockholm and Addis Ababa as the vital cornerstone of Sweden’s strategic engagement within East Africa. Ambassador Lennartsson articulated a profound shift in bilateral relations, emphasizing that the era of traditional assistance is evolving into commercial synergy. He lauded Ethiopia’s impressive economic trajectory, identifying it as the primary catalyst for the mounting interest among Swedish investors eager to penetrate the country’s expanding market. Ethiopia stands as a pivotal partner for Sweden within the complex and competitive geopolitical landscape of this region, the Ambassador remarked. He expressed his government’s resolute commitment to collaborating with Ethiopia through multilateral institutions. He further underscored that the bedrock of this cooperation remains the cultivation of vibrant people-to-people connections, which serve as the foundation for mutual prosperity and shared understanding. Looking toward the horizon, Ambassador Lennartsson shared a buoyant optimism for the future of the Ethiopia-Sweden alliance, voicing his firm conviction that the partnership will continue to flourish across diverse sectors in the coming years. The celebration held a personal resonance for the diplomat, whose journey with Rotary began in 1989 when he was awarded a prestigious scholarship by Rotary International. Ambassador Lennartsson expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity, characterizing it as a formative milestone that helped shape his distinguished career in international diplomacy.
Ethiopia, EU Pledge Closer Cooperation on Development and Regional Security
Jan 28, 2026 1575
Addis Ababa, January 28, 2026 (ENA) -State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Hadera Abera, on today held talks with the European Union Special Representative for the Horn of Africa, Annette Weber, reaffirming Ethiopia’s commitment to further consolidating its longstanding partnership with the European Union. During the discussions, Ambassador Hadera underscored the strategic importance of Ethiopia’s partnership with the European Union. He noted that cooperation between Ethiopia and the European Union spans more than five decades, covering key areas such as economic development, peacebuilding, and regional security. Both sides emphasized the importance of further enhancing political dialogue, deepening economic cooperation, and strengthening collaboration on regional and multilateral issues of mutual interest.
AU–US Talks Spotlight Security, Investment and Africa’s Economic Potential
Jan 28, 2026 1798
Addis Ababa, January 28, 2026 (ENA) -The African Union (AU) and the United States have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation to promote peace, security and economic growth across Africa. US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau held talks in Addis Ababa with African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, focusing on shared priorities and areas of collaboration between the two partners. Briefing the media after the meeting, Landau said the African Union, together with individual African countries, has a vital role in promoting stability and development on the continent. “Our discussions focused on ways in which the United States can contribute to Africa, as Africa contributes to our safety, security and prosperity, and it is in our interest to have a stable and prosperous Africa,” he said. Landau noted that Africa offers significant economic and commercial opportunities, citing its growing population and expanding markets. He also highlighted the continent’s natural resources, saying they can be developed “for the good of the people of Africa and also for the good of the people of our country.” “The United States wants to be present in Africa. We think there are many advantages for Africa and for the United States,” he added. He further stressed that Washington does not want external actors to fuel instability in Africa and reaffirmed the US commitment to work closely with African nations and the African Union. For his part, AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf underscored the importance of deepening genuine cooperation based on shared interests. “We are interconnected, so we need to find the best way to work on our common ground, common interest,” he said, calling for more sincere collaboration to advance mutual priorities. During his visit to Ethiopia, the US Deputy Secretary of State also held discussions with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos on issues of mutual interest.
PM Abiy Holds Talks with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, AFRICOM Commander
Jan 28, 2026 1748
Addis Ababa, January 28, 2026 (ENA) -Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed received a courtesy visit from the United States Deputy Secretary of State, Christopher T. Landau, accompanied by the Commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Dagvin Li Anderson. In a statement shared on social media, the Prime Minister described the discussions as warm and constructive, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration and mutual respect between the two countries. “I received a courtesy visit from the Deputy Secretary of State, Christopher T. Landau, alongside the Commander of U.S. Africa Command, General Dagvin Li Anderson. I appreciated the warm and constructive engagement, which underscored the importance of continued collaboration and mutual respect.”
Foreign Minister Gedion Meets U.S. Deputy Secretary of State to Strengthen Bilateral Ties
Jan 28, 2026 2004
Addis Ababa, January 28, 2026 (ENA) -Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos held talks today with United States Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau at his office, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations between Ethiopia and the United States. During the meeting, the two sides reviewed avenues for further enhancing cooperation across areas of mutual interest and exchanged views on key regional and international developments. Ethiopia and the United States share long-standing diplomatic ties spanning more than 120 years, underpinned by cooperation in political, economic, and people-to-people engagement.
PM Abiy Emphasizes National Responsibility in Protecting Ethiopia’s Interests
Jan 25, 2026 2802
Addis Ababa, January 25, 2026 (ENA) -Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has underscored that safeguarding Ethiopia’s interests and aspirations is a responsibility that rests solely with Ethiopians. In a message shared on social media, the Prime Minister stated that while support of friends can be helpful, it is voluntary and cannot replace national responsibility. He emphasized that Ethiopians must clearly recognize their primary role in protecting the country’s interests and act accordingly. “Safeguarding Ethiopia’s interests and aspirations is a duty that belongs to no one else but us Ethiopians. Protecting Ethiopia’s interests is the responsibility of Ethiopians; the support of our friends is voluntary. Whether we like it or not, we must clearly understand that ensuring Ethiopia’s interests and aspirations is a task expected of us Ethiopians, and we must act accordingly,” the Prime Minister said.
Ethiopian Airforce Will Transition into Fifth-Generation by 2030, Says PM Abiy
Jan 24, 2026 4192
Addis Ababa, January 24, 2026 (ENA) -Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said the Ethiopian Airforce, which has cultivated a formidable fourth-generation combat capability, will transition into fifth-generation by 2030. This expansion will simultaneously see the fleet of combat aircraft double in size, ensuring a more robust and sophisticated aerial defense for the nation, he added. Speaking at the celebration of the 90th Anniversary of the Ethiopian Airforce (EAF) today, the Prime Minister underscored the historic and contemporary role of the force in safeguarding Ethiopia and contributing to peace across Africa. However, he noted that the Air Force had not received consistent and adequate capacity building in line with its age and responsibilities. Over the past five years, nonetheless, significant progress has been made through focused investment in advanced technology, human capital, and modern air-defense systems capable of protecting Ethiopia from aerial threats. At present, the Government of Ethiopia has planned and identified partners to double the current air force capacity,” the Prime Minister revealed. “Our objective is to achieve victory by minimizing human loss through advanced technology, precision strikes, and superior capability,” the PM Abiy stressed. Recalling the history the Air Force, he highlighted EAF’s pivotal role in defending African airspace during the colonial era. The premier described the Air Force as one of Africa’s most respected institutions, built through the cumulative efforts of successive generations and governments, and noted that the Ethiopian Air Force at present stands stronger than at any point in its 90-year history. Honoring legendary figures of the Ethiopian Air Force, he paid tribute to renowned commanders and pilots whose bravery and professionalism shaped the institution, while calling for even greater emphasis on human capital development. “Advanced aircraft alone do not create a decisive air force,” he said. “Without skilled, disciplined, and patriotic professionals, machines cannot deliver victory.” The Prime Minister also linked national security directly with economic growth, noting that Ethiopia’s recent 9.2 percent economic growth and projected 10.3 percent growth this year can only be sustained with a strong and balanced security architecture. Emphasizing economic strength, the PM added that diplomacy, politics, and military capability must advance together as it is only then that the country can remain stable, respected, and strong for future generations. He further underscored that Ethiopia remains open to friendship, cooperation, and shared growth, reaffirming the country’s commitment to working closely with partners based on mutual respect and common interests. At the same time, the PM underlined that Ethiopia will firmly safeguard its sovereignty. "While the nation keeps its doors open to friends, it must also ensure that its doors are securely closed to those who threaten its unity, dignity, and national interests." Ethiopia has learned from history and remains determined to prevent the recurrence of challenges from external and internal forces through strength, vigilance, and unity, he emphasized. PM Abiy said both friends and adversaries must clearly understand that Ethiopia is far stronger, more capable, and more advanced than outdated perceptions suggest. Ethiopia’s development trajectory is irreversible, he added, explaining that challenges and obstacles may arise, but they will only accelerate progress rather than halt it.
Prime Minister Abiy Calls for Unity to Uphold Ethiopia’s Resilience and Sovereignty
Jan 24, 2026 2927
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.
Ethiopian Air Force Will Continue to Set Standard Aerial Excellence: EAF Commander Lt Gen Yilma
Jan 24, 2026 2876
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.
"Eagle of the Skies" Marking 90 Years of Commitment to Regional Peace
Jan 24, 2026 2779
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.
DPM Temesgen Hails Natural Splendor, Hospitality of Bahir Dar
Jan 24, 2026 2224
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.
Ethiopian Air Force Emerges as Continental Model for Military Excellence, Cooperation
Jan 23, 2026 12563
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.
Aviation Expo Reinforces Ethiopia’s Position as Africa’s Aviation Hub: PM Abiy
Jan 23, 2026 2719
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.
Dialogue Commission Serves as Continental Model in Conflict Resolution
Jan 23, 2026 2369
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.
Ethiopia, India Officials Discuss Strengthening Strategic and Economic Ties
Jan 23, 2026 1952
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.
PM Abiy Attends Aviation Expo 2026 Opening ceremony
Jan 23, 2026 1814
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.
“Ethiopia Has Shown Great Responsibility for Peace, Security in Horn of Africa": German FM Wadephul
Jan 22, 2026 3024
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.