Addis Ababa, September 17, 2025 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today held talks with Massad Boulos, Senior Advisor for Africa at the U.S. Department of State on a wide spectrum of bilateral and regional affairs. “Today at my office, I received Massad Boulos, Senior Advisor for Africa at the U.S. Department of State, with whom I held discussions on a range of issues,” Prime Minister Abiy shared on social media channels.

Addis Ababa, September 17, 2025 (ENA) -- The African Union (AU) and the U.S have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen partnership in various spheres to realize a prosperous and stable Africa. Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, and U.S. Senior Advisor for Africa, Massad Boulos, briefed the media today, following their meeting at the AU Headquarters. During the occasion, U.S. Senior Advisor for Africa, Massad Boulos, said the discussion with the Chairperson was a meaningful and strategic one that reflects the commitment of the United States under President Donald Trump to deepen partnerships. The advisor further stated President Trump's desire for regional peace, stability, and prosperity. "Our team's work across the continent is a direct product of his vision, a vision for an Africa that is not defined by conflict, but anchored in shared economic opportunities and sovereign leadership." By securing peace, we will open the door for commercial deeds designed to bring transparency, economic growth, and long-term stability to the region. For the Advisor, American businesses are eager and ready to invest in the continent, both in places where they already have a presence and in those where they do not. Stating that the AU should play in leading on African solutions to challenges across the continent, he said President Trump sees Africa as a strategic partner. Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, on his part, described the meeting as constructive on issues of peace and security, investment, trade, and other areas. The Chairperson noted that it is paramount for the continent to work closely with the U.S to promote trade through AfCFTA, which is the continental free trade area as well. Noting that the two sides also discussed ways to strengthen of CDC capacity, he stressed the need to continue to engage with President Trump's administration on areas of common interest.

Addis Ababa, September 17, 2025 (ENA) -- Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed underlined that Ethiopia's quest for access to the sea is based on peaceful means--and its status quo of 'geographical prisoner' will no longer continue. During the inauguration of his fourth book,’ The Medemer State’ at the Addis Ababa Convention Center yesterday, Prime Minister Abiy strongly underlined that a generation that may be filled with concerns and doubts to reclaim access to the Red Sea—which we had owned before, is of psychological fracture. But, Ethiopia can do that, the prime minister stressed. I cannot think of a country the size of Ethiopia to remain closed and to be bequeathed to the next generation. "We don't believe that war and conflict are necessary to achieve this. That is why we have been waiting in patience for five years," he explained. To this effect, Prime Minister Abiy added that we have been waiting in patience over the past five years. Driven by a firm belief that Ethiopia needs to be given access to the sea based on peaceful means and international law, we extend our hands more than ever to discuss with anyone willing to talk to us peacefully at any forum, the Prime Minister elaborated. Abiy also stressed that Ethiopia can no longer remain in the status quo of a "geographical prisoner." Ethiopia gives priority to peace and fiercely fights against poverty--securing a gateway to the sea will be inevitable, Abiy noted, urging brothers and sisters to be ready for peaceful negotiation.   Prime Minister Abiy also stressed the need to forge solidarity among citizens around a shared vision. The path forward is to gather Ethiopians around a common vision as much as possible. Having gathered a common vision, it is necessary to identify the fractures and devise solutions," he explained. Creating division among us is the primary weapon employed by Ethiopia's adversaries, Abiy said, stressing that ‘’Medemer’’ (synergy) is the cure to their ill intentions. Drawing from historical precedent, the Prime Minister emphasized that Ethiopian unity has consistently alarmed the nation's enemies. He envisioned a future where Ethiopians, regardless of ethnic origins could stand together to "move faster and leapfrog towards national aspirations. Prime Minister Abiy expressed his dream, painting a bright picture of the country so that the country's parliament would debate how much billion of money to allocate as aid to Eastern African neighbors, rather than needing to receive assistance itself.

Addis Ababa, September 17, 2025 (ENA) -- Minister of Planning and Development, Fitsum Assefa stated that the philosophy of the "Medemer State" is designed to unite Ethiopia’s full potential and channel it toward a common national goal. She also elaborated the importance of this approach in harnessing the country's collective strengths for shared progress. During the launch of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's latest book, "The Medemer State,” the minister explained that the work offers a political and economic perspective that redefines governance through synergy, creativity, and inclusiveness. The book reflects on Ethiopia's past setbacks in the context of global progress, emphasizing the need for the country to address its internal challenges before looking for external solutions, she emphasized, adding that it advocates for an indigenous governance model that is tailored to Ethiopia's unique realities, rather than relying on imported foreign ideologies.   Minister Fitsum also noted that the book critiques the blind adoption of foreign doctrines, which have often caused conflicts and division when applied without considering local context. Instead, the "The Medemer State" framework promotes solutions and development strategies that are rooted in Ethiopia's specific conditions. According to the minister, the book envisions a role for both the public and private sectors that moves beyond outdated divisions, further emphasizing the need for coordination where government bodies, NGOs, businesses, and communities work together to unlock Ethiopia’s creative capacity and generate new markets and opportunities. The book identifies systemic challenges, cultural fragmentation, and institutional weaknesses as major obstacles to progress and it argues that a foundation for growth, stability, and sustainable prosperity can be built by addressing these issues through synergy and inclusive governance. Minister Fitsum further elaborated that the "The Medemer State" aims for more than just meeting basic needs; it aspires to higher goals of innovation and "leapfrogging" for long-term prosperity.

Addis Ababa, September 17, 2025 (ENA)-- Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s latest book, “The Medemer State,” provides not only a comprehensive analysis of Ethiopia’s challenges but also offers practical solutions, according to Getachew Reda, the Prime Minister’s Advisor on East African Affairs. The book, the fourth authored by the Prime Minister, was officially launched yesterday in a landmark ceremony attended by President Taye Atsekeslassie, senior government leaders, high-ranking military officers, and citizens from various sectors. The launch featured wide-ranging discussions on the book’s themes and significance.   Speaking at the event, Getachew described “The Medemer State” as a thorough reflection on Ethiopia’s past, present, and envisioned future. He emphasized that the work goes beyond identifying the country’s enduring problems by presenting practical and forward-looking solutions. One of the book’s central insights, he noted, is its call for the constructive use of frustration. Rather than allowing discontent to turn into destructive forces, the book encourages both citizens and leaders to channel it into critical thinking and positive change. Importantly, the book does not advocate dismantling existing institutions. Instead, it stresses the need to correct weaknesses while preserving what has proven valuable over time.   A recurring theme is its rejection of Ethiopia’s long-entrenched “winner-takes-all” political culture, he emphasized, adding that rather than perpetuating zero-sum politics, “The Medemer State” proposes a modern, inclusive governance framework in which all actors can contribute to and benefit from national progress. According to Getachew, Ethiopia’s complex challenges can no longer be addressed through outdated approaches. The Medemer philosophy, with its innovative and integrative mindset, offers a credible path forward. As an example, he pointed to the rapid transformation of Addis Ababa in recent years, where creative and innovative solutions reshaped the capital’s image in a remarkably short time. He concluded that this spirit of renewal and resilience should not remain confined to the capital but must be extended across the entire nation.

Addis Ababa, September 17, 2025 (ENA) – Residents of Oromia Region staged public rallies to express their joy over the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). Ethiopia inaugurated its national flagship project, GERD, last week in the presence of leaders from Africa and the Caribbean. Following GERD’s inauguration, Ethiopians across all regional states are expressing their excitement in large rallies.   Today, public rallies are being held in various cities in the Oromia Regional State under the theme "We have achieved it together". During the rallies conducted in Assela town, the Vice President of the Oromia Regional State, Awelu Abdi, remarked, "We will strive to duplicate the success attained with the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam in other peace and development initiatives by uniting the community. Awelu emphasized that the residents of the region have consistently backed the success of the GERD through the purchase of bonds and various donations.   The Vice President confirmed the government's persistent endeavors to replicate the achievements obtained from GERD across other development initiatives focused on establishing sustainable peace, stabilizing living costs, and enhancing service delivery through the coordination of the regional populace. He also mentioned the government's continuous initiatives to assist those who choose the path of peace in returning to a normal life, thereby ensuring enduring peace in the region. Moreover, he stated that the regional government will persist in enhancing law enforcement measures against individuals who have not embraced the path of peace, enabling the populace to concentrate on developmental efforts and attain enduring peace.   He mentioned that the regional government will intensify its oversight of unlawful business operations to stabilize living costs, while also increasing the availability of products.  

Addis Ababa, September 16, 2025 (ENA)—‘Medemer State,’ Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s fourth and latest book, was unveiled this evening in a landmark ceremony, marking a defining moment in advancing and solidifying the Medemer (synergy) philosophy. The ceremony was graced by the presence of the author himself, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, alongside President Taye Atsekeslassie, senior government leaders, high-ranking military officers, and representatives from diverse segments of society. This book, Medemer State, presents the Medemer philosophy as a refined and widely embraced model of governance, shaping Ethiopia’s national vision and inspiring public trust, it was learned. Speaking at the book launch, Prime Minister Abiy emphasized that Medemer State envisions building a better tomorrow, firmly grounded in the realities of today. He emphasized that the book confronts the crucial question of why Ethiopia remains poor and offers a clear, actionable solution and roadmap for accelerated progress. Prime Minister Abiy further elaborated that Medemer State lays out solutions that clearly define Ethiopia’s destination, emphasizing that the book not only envisions the country’s prosperity but actively charts the path to achieving it. He stressed that the ultimate goal is to build a nation that does not simply imitate others but stands as a model of excellence—a vision already coming to fruition. Highlighting Ethiopia’s recent success stories, including the inaugurated Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and the Green Legacy Initiative, he pointed out that these successes demonstrate the country’s ability to realize its ambitions. The Prime Minister also stressed the need for creating a system that embraces all Ethiopians—not by uniform thinking, but by uniting efforts toward a shared national vision. In this context, he described the Medemer philosophy as the perfect remedy for the fractures of Ethiopia’s past.

Addis Ababa, September 16, 2025 (ENA) –The people in different parts of the Amhara region staged public rallies to express their joy and excitement over the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD)   Recall that Ethiopia inaugurated GERD on 9 September 2025 in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and African leaders. GERD is entirely funded by the Ethiopian public and government, with unprecedented unity and determination of the general public. Speaking at the public rally held today in Bahir Dar city to celebrate the accomplishment of GERD, Chief Administrator of the Amhara region, Arega Kebed, stated that the completion of GERD with domestic finance is a testament that the nation can accomplish extraordinary mega projects with multinational unity in the future.   The inauguration of GERD showcases Ethiopia’s ability to develop and utilize its natural resources with local funding, the Chief Administrator said. Acting Deputy Mayor of Bahir Dar city, Goshu Endaamaw, on his part, said GERD manifests the journey of Ethiopia’s elevation and resurgence.   GERD heralds the end of anger that Ethiopians endured for centuries and the inevitability of Ethiopia’s prosperity, he said. Following the inauguration of GERD, Ethiopians in different parts of the country are celebrating this historic milestone being the architect, source of the finance, and sole owner of the dam by staging rallies, expressing joy, excitement, and unity.   GERD is the expression of Ethiopian collective determination, resilience, and will. Situated on the Abay River in Benishangul-Gumuz Regional State, the dam stands as Africa’s largest hydroelectric power project.

Addis Ababa, September 16, 2025 (ENA) -- No matter how the international landscape might change, China will always stand firmly with Africa, Ambassador Jiang Feng, Head of the Chinese Mission to the African Union (AU), reaffirmed. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Ambassador Jiang Feng, Head of the Chinese Mission to the African Union (AU), reaffirmed China’s steadfast commitment to Africa, regardless of changes in the global landscape. He emphasized the enduring partnership between China and Africa, noting their continued collaboration on key regional and international issues, including security, United Nations reform, climate change, and counterterrorism efforts. “No matter how the international landscape might change, China will always stand firmly with Africa,” Ambassador Jiang stated. He affirmed China’s commitment to supporting Africa’s modernization and development journey. “We call on the international community to pay serious attention to the development challenges facing Africa,” Jiang added. “China will continue to provide strong support for Africa’s progress and prosperity.” The ambassador underscored the link between peace and development, referencing President Xi Jinping’s well-known assertion: “Security leads to development, and development sustains peace.” Ambassador Jiang praised the African Union and other sub-regional organizations for their successful peacekeeping missions in recent years. He expressed China’s confidence in Africa’s ability and wisdom to address its own challenges, reiterating support for the principle of “African solutions to African problems.” “China has consistently advocated for the principle that African people should solve African issues in an African way,” he said. “We firmly support efforts to enhance Africa’s capacity for autonomous peacekeeping and stability.”

Addis Ababa, September 14, 2025 (ENA) -- Addis Ababa City Mayor Adanech Abiebie has underscored that the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) belongs not only to Ethiopia but to all Africans, serving as a powerful emblem of unity, integration, and shared prosperity across the continent. Speaking at a massive rally held in Addis Ababa at Meskel Square today, Mayor Adanech described the dam’s completion as a historic triumph that reflects Ethiopia’s determination and resilience. Thousands of residents filled the square, chanting messages of pride and gratitude for what they called a “national victory.” Adanech emphasized that the GERD has reshaped the region’s geopolitical landscape, challenged past injustices, and renewed hope for black people worldwide. “The successful completion of the dam is a victory not only for Ethiopia but for all Africans. It proves we can realize transformative projects with our own capacity, resources, and professionals,” she declared. The mayor further noted that the project embodies empowerment for Africans and black communities everywhere who aspire to development through self-reliance. Demonstrators echoed this sentiment, carrying banners that read: “A great work that revived the spirit of Ethiopianism, a bridge between past and future, and a monument of Ethiopian perseverance built with stone and iron. Emphasizing its broader significance, Adanech stated, “The GERD has shifted diplomatic dynamics and stands as Ethiopia’s eternal monument to unity, resilience, and victory. It shows that this generation, like our forefathers, is not just storytellers of history but makers of history.” The mayor also stressed that the dam symbolizes the collective struggle of generations to break free from poverty and achieve prosperity through hard work and resilience. Paying tribute to all Ethiopians, engineers, workers, and professionals, Mayor Adanech praised their dedication and knowledge, which turned the vision into reality. She further acknowledged the contributions of Ethiopians at home and abroad who defended the GERD in diplomatic, media, and public arenas. “From children to elders, from small shopkeepers to investors, from students to intellectuals, Ethiopians from every walk of life contributed. Regardless of race, religion, or status, this is a collective victory that belongs to all of us,” she affirmed. “The GERD is more than a dam; it is the fruit of visionary leadership, the people’s firm commitment, and the enduring spirit to overcome challenges. It will remain an eternal monument to Ethiopia’s invincibility,” she said.

Addis Ababa, September 14, 2025 (ENA) -- The Ethiopian Institute of Foreign Affairs stated that Ethiopia’s diplomatic journey surrounding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is becoming a source of inspiration for other African nations. The institute highlights that GERD is not just a major infrastructure project, but a model for African-led diplomacy. Speaking to ENA, the institute's Deputy Director General, Abdi Zenebe, emphasized that Ethiopia's ability to manage complex negotiations, despite political and external pressures, serves as a guide for other countries seeking to advance their right to development and self-determination, free from colonial-era constraints. Abdi described the tripartite negotiations with downstream countries as fair, principled, and inclusive, noting that these talks, which have been ongoing since the dam's foundation was laid, reflect Ethiopia's growing regional influence and its commitment to cooperation. Sileabat Manaye, the Director of Digital Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also reflected on the 14-year diplomatic journey. He noted that Ethiopia has consistently engaged in diplomatic efforts to address concerns from downstream nations.   According to Sileabat, these negotiations have been central to Ethiopia’s measured and strategic approach. “While the diplomatic path has not been smooth, our efforts to counter misinformation and challenge narratives pushed by historical adversaries have produced meaningful results,” he emphasized. Sileabat added that GERD marks the start of a new era of economic pan-Africanism, laying the groundwork for a geostrategic approach to sustainable national development. He concluded that the experience gained from the GERD negotiations has strengthened Ethiopia's capacity to advocate for fairness on the global stage. The successful completion of the dam is more than just a national achievement, he stated, adding that it expands our strategic horizons and provides a foundation for implementing a united, forward-looking geopolitical strategy, one that prioritizes African solidarity over division.

Addis Ababa, September 14, 2025 (ENA) -- African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has welcomed a recent United Nations General Assembly resolution on advancing cooperation between the UN and the AU. The UN General Assembly, in its 79th session, adopted a resolution on UN-AU cooperation, emphasizing that strengthening the cooperation will contribute to the advancement of the principles of the UN Charter and of the Constitutive Act of the AU. "This resolution is a strong endorsement of Africa's leadership and of the vital partnership between the UN and AU in advancing peace, security, and sustainable development," the AU Commission chief said in a statement issued Saturday. "Together, we will translate this commitment into concrete action that delivers for Africa's people and contributes to global stability," he added. The resolution, among other things, emphasized that the AU's 50-year continental development blueprint Agenda 2063 "reflects the commitment to the pan-African vision of an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the international arena." Youssouf reaffirmed the AU's unwavering commitment to working hand-in-hand with the UN in achieving both Africa's Agenda 2063 and the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The resolution emphasized the need to pursue ongoing measures to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of UN-AU cooperation in addressing threats to peace and security, as well as obstacles to development, and promoting human rights in Africa.

Addis Ababa, September 14, 2025 (ENA) – President Taye Atske-Silassie has hailed the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a historic triumph that embodies the firm spirit and perseverance of the Ethiopian people. The GERD, Africa's largest dam, stands as a milestone achieved through the collective efforts of the Ethiopian people. Built entirely with domestic funding, the project overcame immense challenges, demonstrating the power of unity and determination.   Speaking at the massive public rally held today in Addis Ababa to celebrate its inauguration, President Taye described the GERD as a “precious gift from Ethiopians to Ethiopians.” President Taye emphasized that GERD is not merely an infrastructure project but a great victory that symbolizes the country’s resilience, perseverance, and capacity to realize its aspirations through hard work and collective effort.   The president further underlined that the dam stands as a testament to the dedication, unity, and leadership of Ethiopians, answering what he called “the tears and prayers of Ethiopian mothers for centuries.” On the occasion, President Taye commended the historic contributions of citizens from all walks of life, the Ethiopian diaspora, and the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in making the GERD a reality.   The president reiterated that the aspiration of Ethiopians is to “develop together and grow together,” stressing the importance of strengthening cooperation among Nile Basin countries. The dam was officially inaugurated on September 9, 2025 by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in the presence of African leaders, including Kenyan President William Ruto, Djiboutian President Ismail Omar Guelleh, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, South Sudanese President Salva Kiir, and several leaders from other African and Caribbean nations, underscoring the dam’s continental and global significance.

Addis Ababa, September 14, 2025 (ENA) – Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie hailed the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a "ray of hope" for the nation's future, calling it a "solid foundation" for its people. Residents of Addis Ababa staged a massive public demonstration at Meskel Square to celebrate the historic completion of the GERD. The event was marked by vibrant expressions of joy, as citizens from all sub-cities gathered to sing, chant, and carry messages of pride and solidarity.   The grand rally was attended by President Taye Atsekeselas, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh, Chief of General Staff of the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF), Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie, along with other senior government officials and dignitaries. Speaking on the occasion, Mayor Adanech underscored that the GERD stands not only as an engineering achievement but also as a foundation of national unity and a lasting symbol of Ethiopia’s determination. She congratulated the people of Ethiopia for their role in the successful completion of the project, describing it as “a milestone written in one voice that will never be forgotten.”   The mayor expressed profound gratitude to Ethiopians who sacrificed their knowledge, sweat, blood, and lives on Mount Guba to make the dam a reality, affirming that such sacrifices deserve the highest honor. The project’s success was made possible because Ethiopians remained united in the face of conspiracies, hostile campaigns, and covert pressures from both internal and external adversaries, she stressed. Mayor Adanech further highlighted the decisive leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed over the past seven years, which she said was instrumental in steering the project to completion. She also praised Ethiopia’s security institutions for the heavy price they paid in defending the dam against immense external pressure and threats.   Recalling the international dimension, she noted that the United Nations Security Council held more than 13 sessions on the GERD in an unprecedented effort to exert pressure on Ethiopia. However, she added, Ethiopia’s determined diplomatic stance successfully countered these challenges, and she extended her gratitude to the country’s diplomats for their pivotal role in safeguarding the national interests. In her address, Mayor Adanech also acknowledged the indispensable contributions of media organizations, social media activists, and Ethiopians both at home and in the diaspora. Their firm support, she emphasized, was a decisive factor in countering disinformation and mobilizing global awareness of the dam’s importance.   “Ethiopians have once again proven that by working together, nothing is beyond our reach. No external pressure can derail us from our goals,” the mayor declared. The mayor concluded by affirming that the GERD is not only an eternal monument to Ethiopia’s resilience but also a symbol of invincibility that has reshaped the geopolitics of the region. The GERD was officially inaugurated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, in the presence of African and international leaders. Distinguished guests included Kenyan President William Ruto, Djiboutian President Ismail Omar Guelleh, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, South Sudanese President Salva Kiir, and several leaders from other African and Caribbean nations, underscoring the dam’s continental and global significance.

Addis Ababa, September 12, 2025 (ENA) -- Ferdinand von Weyhe, Chargé d'Affaires of the German Embassy in Addis Ababa, has commended Ethiopia’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as both a symbol of national pride and a catalyst for regional energy integration. Ethiopia inaugurated GERD last Tuesday in a colorful ceremony in the presence of leaders from Africa and the Caribbean. In an interview with ENA, Ferdinand von Wyhe, Chargé d'Affaires of the German Embassy in Addis Ababa, described the GERD as a “beacon of hope” for collaboration on clean energy across the Horn of Africa. He noted the remarkable public support behind the project, emphasizing that contributions from Ethiopians nationwide made the dam a true expression of national unity. “The GERD is a source of national pride for Ethiopia, but its importance extends beyond borders by advancing Africa’s energy and development goals,” he said.   The German diplomat stressed that GERD will contribute not only to strengthening Ethiopia’s electricity grid but also to enhancing regional power interconnections. He also underscored the importance of cooperation among riparian states in managing shared water resources. Ferdinand von Weyhe drew comparisons between the two countries’ energy systems, noting that Germany relies heavily on wind and solar power, while Ethiopia benefits from vast hydropower potential. “Germany is expanding renewable energy and reducing energy consumption, but Ethiopia has a natural advantage with its hydropower resources,” he observed. The envoy further outlined ongoing German-Ethiopian cooperation, including German companies participating in biomass research, solar, and biogas. Such partnerships, he said, are vital for reducing reliance on combustible fuels and accelerating the transition to cleaner energy. Concluding his remarks, the envoy positioned Ethiopia as a leader in sustainable energy development and reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to partnership. “The GERD is more than just a national achievement; it is a milestone for regional energy cooperation and a sustainable future for Africa,” he stated.

Addis Ababa, September 12, 2025 (ENA) -- Residents and officials of Addis Ababa have celebrated the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) with a vibrant mass sports event at Meskel Square today. The atmosphere was filled with joy and pride as the residents and leadership of the city participated in various mass sports, expressing their excitement for this monumental achievement. Deputy Mayor of Addis Ababa, Jantirar Abay, addressed the crowd, emphasizing the dam's significance not only for Ethiopia's energy needs but also as a symbol of national unity and progress. GERD has been a source of national pride, and today's celebration reflects the unity and hope of the Ethiopian people for a brighter future, the deputy mayor noted. People of all ages and walks of life participated, expressing their gratitude for the leadership of Ethiopia that made the GERD a reality.   GERD isn't just a government project; it's a dam built by the people, for the people. It's a testament to the sacrifices made by ordinary citizens—farmers selling livestock, civil servants, teachers donating parts of their salaries, and millions buying bonds they could barely afford. The joy in Meskel Square wasn't just about a dam; it was about the collective spirit of a people who have proven that with unity and determination, a national dream can become a tangible reality.   GERD is the largest hydropower project in Africa that produces over 5,000 megawatts of electricity, significantly boosting the country's energy supply and supporting economic developments. GERD was officially inaugurated last Tuesday by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in the presence of leaders from the Horn of Africa and the Caribbean.  

Addis Ababa, September 11, 2025 (ENA) - The Africa Climate Innovation Compact (ACIC) and the African Climate Facility (ACF), were established under the initiative of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia at the Second Africa Climate Summit (ACS2) held in Addis Ababa. At the close of ACS2, the African Leaders Addis Ababa Declaration on Climate Change and Call To Action was also officially adopted, heralding a historic moment that puts Africa at the forefront of global climate action, according to a joint press statement. ACS2 was hosted by Ethiopia in collaboration with the African Union under the theme: “Accelerating Global Climate Solutions: Financing for Africa's Resilient and Green Development”. The final day of ACS2 concluded with a clear call to position Africa, not as a mere victim of climate change, but as a driver of solutions and the next global climate economy, the release underlined. The Leaders Declaration called for "strengthened and sustained support to scale up the implementation of African-led climate initiatives such as the African Union Great Green Wall Initiative, the African Forest Landscape Restoration Initiative, and the Ethiopian Green Legacy Initiative. African leaders and partners of Africa pledged for financial and innovative commitments to the continent for the implementation of African-led solutions, including. The Africa Climate Innovation Compact (ACIC) and the African Climate Facility (ACF), were established under the initiative of Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of Ethiopia, committing to mobilize 50 billion USD annually in catalytic finance to champion climate solutions that accelerate innovation and scale local climate solutions across the continent. The Compact aims to deliver 1,000 African solutions to tackle climate challenges in energy, agriculture, water, transport, and resilience by 2030. Leaders were clear that adaptation finance is the legal obligation from the developed world, not charity. Africa stressed that adaptation finance must be delivered in the form of grants, not loans that worsen already fragile debt burdens. To correct the imbalance of the climate finance in Africa, a landmark deal was struck to operationalise the long-awaited African Climate Change Fund, supported by the African Development Bank, which will channel green bonds and innovative financing instruments built for Africa’s realities. Heads of State and Government spoke with one voice in demanding urgent reform of multilateral development banks to lower borrowing costs and expand African representation in global financial governance. The Government of Denmark announced 79 million USD for supporting agricultural transformation. African financial institutions such as AfDB, Afreximbank, Africa50, and AFC signed a landmark Cooperation Framework to operationalise the Africa Green Industrialisation Initiative (AGII), backed by 100 billion USD mobilised for green growth and aiming at transforming Africa’s renewable energy, resources, and industries into a climate-smart growth engine. The Government of Italy reaffirmed its commitment to its pledge of 4.2 billion USD to the Italian Climate Fund, devoting about 70% of this to Africa. The second phase of the Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program (AAAP) called on partners to collaborate actively in AAAP 2.0, which aims to climate-prepare Africa’s food systems, future-proof infrastructure and urban zones, seeking $50 billion investment and unlocking resilient finance at scale by 2030. Leaders further called for Africa’s share of global renewable energy investments to rise from a meagre 2% today to at least 20% by 2030, a shift that would finally reflect the continent’s potential as a renewable energy powerhouse. The Summit pushed for the Green Minerals Strategy, a blueprint to ensure that cobalt, lithium, copper, and rare earths fuel not only global clean energy supply chains but also local beneficiation, job creation, and industrialisation. Leaders pledged to establish dedicated financial mechanisms for addressing climate-related health threats, from deadly heatwaves to the spread of vector-borne diseases.

Addis Ababa, September 11, 2025 (ENA)—Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ethiopia, Genet Teshome presented a letter of credence to Aleksandr Lukashenko, President of Belarus. In its press release sent to ENA, the Ethiopian Embassy in Moscow quoted Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko, who underscored the importance of the diplomatic relations that his country has established with many countries across the world and the values his government attaches to these relations. Regarding the bilateral relations with Ethiopia, the Belarusian President, on the occasion, commended the longstanding diplomatic relations which witnessed further impetus after the meeting of the leaders of the two countries during the Kazan, Russia BRICS Summit held in October 2024. It is worth recalling that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held talks with Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit. During the discussion, Prime Minister Abiy appreciated for the cooperation between Ethiopia and Belarus and, separately, he expressed gratitude for mutual support in the world arena, including on such an important issue for Ethiopia as access to the seaport. The Belarusian President also stated that though Ethiopia has gone through several predicaments, the country has a bright future and appreciated its principled positions on major global critical issues. According to President Lukashenko, Belarus and Ethiopia need to strengthen their cooperation in Agriculture, Education, and Technology transfer as per the Roadmap agreed at the highest level and being implemented by their respective Foreign Ministers.

Addis Ababa, September 9, 2025 (ENA) -- Prime Minister Abiy discussed on common issues with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of the Federal Republic of Somalia and President Salva Kiir Mayardit of the Republic of South Sudan this morning. Prime Minister Abiy shared on his social media “ I met with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of the Federal Republic of Somalia this morning to discuss common regional interests”.   “We reaffirmed our commitment to fostering stability, security, and development across the region, ” Abiy added. The Prime Minister also shared on his social media that he welcomed President Salva Kiir Mayardit of the Republic of South Sudan to my office for bilateral discussions.   “We explored ways to strengthen cooperation and advance shared priorities between our nations,” he said.  

Addis Ababa, September 9, 2025 (ENA) -- African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) will be remembered for generations to come. Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed inaugurated the dam today in the presence of African leaders and other officials. Speaking at the occasion, Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf described it as a historic day for Ethiopia. He noted that the inception, construction, and inauguration of the project took decades of hard work, dedication, and visionary leadership. The Chairperson emphasized that the primary purpose of the dam is to generate up to 5,000 megawatts of green energy, benefiting both Ethiopians and neighboring countries with an abundant source of electricity. “I would like to take this momentous opportunity to congratulate Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for this incredible achievement, and the Ethiopian people who believed in this project and financed it through their own savings, hard work, and sacrifice,” Youssouf said. He also highlighted the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA), a flagship framework of Agenda 2063 launched in 2012, covering transport, energy, transboundary water resources, and information and communication technology. PIDA, he said, provides the vision and strategies for large-scale cross-border infrastructure projects. Referring to the recent Africa Climate Summit held in Addis Ababa, Youssouf stated that the dam stands as “a testimony of words translated into action,” underscoring that renewable energy and energy transition remain central to Africa’s collective ambition. He welcomed Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s reassurance that the dam is not intended to harm anyone, stressing that the best way forward is through diplomatic dialogue. “I urge the three countries to resume talks on the basis of the 2015 Khartoum Agreement on Principles,” Youssouf said, adding that the African Union is ready to support negotiations. He cited the successful cooperation of Senegal, Mali, and Mauritania over the Senegal River as an example of effective trilateral collaboration. Concluding his remarks, Youssouf stressed that finding common ground requires political will and wisdom, quoting the Holy Quran: “We made every living thing from water.”