Addis Ababa, September 4, 2026 (ENA)—The United Nations General Assembly has endorsed a resolution supporting the transition from the centuries-old Mercator projection to more accurate equal-area world maps, including the 2018 Equal Earth projection. The resolution was backed by 164 countries, with the United States voting against and six countries abstaining. Togo introduced the resolution to the assembly about a year after the African Union endorsed it. The resolution is part of the #CorrectTheMap campaign backed by all African Union member states. The resolution seeks to replace the traditional Mercator map, which distorts the region, with the Equal Earth projection, which is believed to show countries’ true sizes. Led by Togo on behalf of the African Union, the initiative seeks to address long-standing distortions in how Africa and other equatorial regions are visually represented on world maps. The Mercator projection significantly enlarges high-latitude regions while making Africa appear far smaller than its actual size. Supporters say the move could influence education, technology and public understanding, while helping challenge inherited perceptions of Africa’s geographic, economic and geopolitical significance. Togo’s Foreign Minister Robert Dussey described the issue as a scientific matter, saying it is time to “change the narrative” surrounding Africa’s representation. Although the UN resolution is not legally binding, its adoption marks a significant symbolic step in Africa’s broader effort to reshape global narratives and representation.

ADDIS ABABA, Sept. 4, 2026 (ENA) — Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos received U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Frank Garcia earlier today. The two sides discussed ways of further strengthening the longstanding bilateral relations between Ethiopia and the United States, including expanding trade, investment and commercial ties between the two countries. They also exchanged views on regional peace and security issues of mutual interest. It is recalled that Ethiopia and the United States held a bilateral structured dialogue in Washington, D.C., on May 11, 2026, focusing on three key areas including economic prosperity, trade and investment; defense and security cooperation; and the promotion of regional peace and stability.

ADDIS ABABA, Sept. 4, 2026 (ENA) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has extended warm congratulations to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, praising her leadership for bringing "unprecedented stability" to Italy and strengthening the long-standing partnership between the two nations. In a message shared on his X page, PM Abiy wrote: "My dear friend Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, on behalf of the Government and people of Ethiopia, I extend my warmest congratulations to you, as your administration achieves a truly historic milestone. As a strong woman, your visionary leadership has brought unprecedented stability to the modern history of the Italian Republic." He added that Meloni's "enduring dedication and resilience not only inspire many globally but continue to strengthen the deep, multifaceted partnership between Ethiopia and Italy," highlighting that their bilateral ties are built on "mutual respect." PM Abiy concluded by wishing "continued peace and prosperity" to the Italian prime minister and her people. PM Abiy’s remarks highlight Ethiopia’s ongoing commitment to expanding its historic, strategic partnership with Italy.

Addis Ababa, September 4, 2026 (ENA)— Former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Tibor Nagy underscored the strategic value of military cooperation between the United States and Ethiopia, describing engagement with the Ethiopian National Defence Forces as a clear “win-win” for both sides and for regional stability. Recently, a high-level Ethiopian delegation, led by Major General Teshome Gemechu, Director General of Foreign Relations and Military Cooperation at the FDRE Ministry of Defence, held talks with senior U.S. Department of War officials. Following these discussions, Ethiopia and the United States have agreed to establish comprehensive strategic cooperation in defense and security. In an exclusive interview with Pulse of Africa, Tibor Nagy, the former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, highlighted the Ethiopian military’s high level of professionalism, which he said places it at the upper end among African forces. He attributed this to deep discipline and a continuous military tradition dating back centuries. “The Ethiopian military has been always at the high end of a professional military again because of the discipline and the history,” Nagy said. ‘This is the same military that is the successor of the people who won the Battle of Adwa,’ he said, noting that Ethiopia’s warrior spirit and the idea of fighting for the nation remain ‘in the DNA’. Nagy compared the military’s institutional professionalism to that of Ethiopian Airlines, emphasizing consistency in a large country with a very long military history. This professionalism, he argued, makes sustained contact and cooperation with Ethiopia’s armed forces particularly valuable. “Having contact with such a military is extremely important because the United States has certain advantages in training, equipment and strategies,” Nagy stated. He stressed that a stable and prosperous Horn of Africa serves core U.S. interests. “The United States can definitely hugely benefit from a stable and prosperous Horn of Africa because it’s a key region of the world,” he said, pointing to nearby challenges such as Houthi operations affecting Red Sea shipping lanes, which he described as “straight downhill down the mountain from Ethiopia.” Framing the relationship in broader terms, Nagy concluded that deepened U.S.-Ethiopian military and strategic engagement represent “a win-win proposition for all sides.

Addis Ababa, Sept. 3, 2026 (ENA) —The Ethiopian Institute for Strategic Studies (EISS) stated that the political crisis between Ethiopia and Egypt is rooted in a deeply entrenched colonial mindset in Egypt that views Ethiopia’s development and stability in the Horn of Africa as a threat to Egyptian interests. In an exclusive interview with ENA, EISS President Nuruddin Abda emphasized that the colonial mindset among Egyptian officials remains an obstacle to development and stability in the Horn of Africa. Nuruddin added the mindset treats Ethiopia’s economic, political and security progress as a challenge to Egypt’s national security, arguing that such an approach cannot resolve tensions between the two countries unless Cairo recognizes the changing realities of the region. He further elaborated that Egypt should respect Ethiopia’s right to development and its pursuit of national interests rather than portraying Ethiopia’s actions as threats to Egyptian security. Nuruddin also criticized what he described as double standards in Egypt’s approach to the Horn of Africa, saying Cairo cannot claim the right to operate freely in the region while denying Ethiopia the same right. “The problem is that the Egyptian political mindset still sees any rise of Ethiopia or stability in the Horn of Africa as a threat, as if the region should remain a security sphere where Egyptian hands and agencies can operate in one way or another,” Nuruddin noted. He further elaborated such a perspective reflects a fundamental problem in Egypt’s approach to the countries of the Horn of Africa. “The peoples of the region are not spheres of influence and cannot be treated as instruments in Egypt’s security calculations,” he said. Addressing Ethiopia’s landlocked status, Nuruddin also stated the country’s need for reliable maritime access has gone beyond trade and has become a matter of national security. According to him, Ethiopia’s dependence on ports in neighboring countries exposes its trade and supply chains to political and security uncertainties. “Any instability in the region could disrupt supply chains and directly affect Ethiopia’s economy,” he said. Nuruddin also noted that Ethiopia’s large population and geographic size make it unrealistic to isolate the country from developments in the surrounding maritime environment. Ethiopia’s stability is important not only to the country itself but also to the wider Horn of Africa, as well as the Middle East and Gulf regions, he added. The president further said developments in the Red Sea and Bab el Mandeb have a direct bearing on Ethiopia’s security and strategic interests. He rejected calls for Ethiopia to refrain from taking action concerning the Red Sea, arguing that developments in the area directly affect Ethiopia despite the country being landlocked.

Addis Ababa, Sep 4, 2026 (ENA) — IGAD member states should harness artificial intelligence (AI) to fast-track development, deepen regional integration and tackle shared challenges across the Horn of Africa, IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu has said. Speaking at the Regional AI Framework and Strategy Stakeholders Consultation Workshop in Addis Ababa, Workneh said AI should be seen as a key force multiplier for IGAD’s broader agenda on regional integration, peace and development. He said AI has the potential to boost food security and agriculture, improve predictive climate modelling and early-warning systems for drought and flooding, and expand access to healthcare through AI-driven diagnostics and disease surveillance, especially in remote and border communities. Workneh also underscored the need for data sovereignty, accountability and regional regulation, saying IGAD countries must ensure their data is controlled, managed and used in their own interests. “We should be the owners of our own data,” Workneh said, stressing the need to strengthen regional approaches to data governance and AI regulation. He called for stronger cooperation among member states through data sharing, resource pooling and policy harmonization, saying regional collaboration can achieve what no single country can do alone. “This is not a Secretariat project. It is a regional initiative owned by you, our Member States, for our people,” Workneh said. Workneh outlined a three-pronged strategy to advance AI in the region: targeted investment in areas where AI can deliver the greatest development impact, closing critical gaps in infrastructure, policy and human skills, and building a strong regional AI ecosystem. He stressed the need for cross-border initiatives, institutional cooperation and harmonized policies to support the growth of an effective regional AI ecosystem. In his remarks, Director for IGAD Affairs at Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ketema Haile, said Ethiopia recognizes AI as a transformative tool for national and regional development. “Ethiopia fully recognizes the transformative role of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in national and regional development,” Ketema said. He said Ethiopia is committed to working closely with IGAD and fellow member states to advance a safe, inclusive and human-centered AI agenda across the region. Ketema also highlighted the newly established Artificial Intelligence University, expressing hope that it will benefit IGAD member states and Africa at large. “In this regard, I hope the newly established Artificial Intelligence University will benefit all IGAD member states and the entire Africa,” Ketema said. He called for coordinated regional action, strong policy frameworks and strategic investment in human capital, digital infrastructure, research and innovation to ensure AI benefits the region’s young population. The two-day consultation, which runs from September 4 to 5, brings together policymakers, technical experts, academics, private-sector representatives and development partners to help develop a practical regional AI framework and strategy for IGAD.

Addis Ababa, Sep 4, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia and the Netherlands held their fourth political consultations in Addis Ababa, exchanging views on bilateral relations as well as regional and global issues of mutual interest. According to a social media post by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ethiopian delegation was led by Ambassador Meles Alem, Director General of European and American Affairs, while the Dutch side was led by Pascalle Grotenhuis, Vice Minister for International Cooperation of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The two sides also discussed regional peace and stability, economic cooperation, and reform of the international multilateral system. Opening the consultations, Ambassador Meles highlighted the longstanding and multifaceted relations between the two countries. He underscored the historical bonds and long-standing cooperation in agriculture, horticulture, dairy development, and cold-chain infrastructure, and appreciated the contribution of Dutch investors to Ethiopia’s economy. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating a conducive investment environment through the implementation of the Homegrown Economic Reform Program. The discussions also covered peace, development, regional affairs, and multilateral issues. Ambassador Meles highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to advance peace, democratic participation, and national consensus, including through the recently concluded seventh national elections and the National Dialogue. He appreciated the Netherlands’ support for the implementation of the Pretoria Peace Agreement, disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR), and transitional justice, and called for continued cooperation in support of Ethiopia’s peace and development priorities. Vice Minister Grotenhuis expressed the Netherlands’ interest in expanding investment and strengthening economic cooperation with Ethiopia, while welcoming the progress of the country’s economic reform efforts, according to the social media post. She also commended Ethiopia’s important role in the multilateral system and expressed support for reforms aimed at making international institutions more representative and responsive to contemporary global realities. Both sides underscored the importance of sustained high-level engagement, including exchanges of official visits, and reaffirmed their commitment to deepening their longstanding partnership across political, economic, regional, and multilateral areas, particularly as they mark a century of bilateral trade relations.

Addis Ababa, Sep 3, 2026 (ENA) — Inhabitants of Tigray region told ENA that the struggle to end the atrocities and inhumane acts being carried out by the illegal TPLF faction must be strengthened. They revealed that the faction has continued inflicting harm on the local communities, including forced recruitment and human trafficking targeting the youth. One of the inhabitants, Hluf Atsali, said young people in Tigray are being forcibly seized and pushed to become combatants. Many youths are fleeing their homes to escape forced recruitment, often taking dangerous desert and sea routes in search of safety, he added. People from all walks of life must unite to put an end to these abuses committed by the illegal faction, Hluf stressed. Lemlem Samuel, a female resident, said mothers across Tigray continue to bear the heavy emotional and social burden of the ongoing conflict and forced recruitment. For his part, Teka Gebru described the situation in the region as deeply oppressive and called for stronger community resistance to the group’s actions. Teka, who noted that forceful recruitment violates fundamental human rights, warned that Ethiopia’s core values of human dignity and solidarity are being undermined in the region.  

Addis Ababa, Sep 3, 2026 (ENA) — Egypt’s continued attempt to weaken Ethiopia is unlikely to succeed and would ultimately harm itself, the seasoned politician Professor Berhanu Nega said. The professor, who is serving as Education Minister, told ENA that the Egyptian effort to block Ethiopia’s development projects is not new. But the changing international environment requires countries in the region to abandon confrontational politics and work together, he noted. According to him, developing countries like Egypt are failing to recognize broader changes in the international system. “The changing international environment can completely swallow us unless otherwise we somehow unify and collaborate as Africans,” Professor Berhanu underlined. He cited Africa’s experience during colonialism as an example of the consequences of political fragmentation, saying the continent suffered for centuries partly because of its inability to unite against external pressures. The current global environment also represents an era in which continued divisions among neighboring countries could leave all sides vulnerable. “If we allow these divisions within our societies and use it to weaken each other, this is not an environment where there will be winners. We will all lose,” he warned. Professor Berhanu criticized Egypt’s approach toward Ethiopia noting that attempts to use proxies or other means to undermine it may create temporary difficulties but would not fundamentally alter the balance of power in the region. “Countries like Egypt, who think that they can play the old politics and emerge victorious in this struggle is a very silly enterprise,” he said. He instead urged Egypt and other countries in the region to recognize that they are not mortal enemies and should cooperate to address broader challenges facing the region. “The smartest thing to do, I think, is to sit down and discuss. We are not each other’s mortal enemies.” Efforts to weaken Ethiopia could ultimately undermine the interests of the countries pursuing such policies, particularly at a time when global geopolitical and economic pressures are intensifying, Professor Berhanu noted. He referred to Egypt’s longstanding opposition to Ethiopia’s construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as futile effort that had failed to prevent Ethiopia from advancing its development agenda. “If you were an Egyptian leader, just think what has happened. You've been trying to stop Ethiopians from building the dam for a long, long time. But did they stop it? No!” The professor pointed out that Ethiopia has instead become stronger and more capable of undertaking additional development projects, including the construction of other dams, if necessary. However, Ethiopia has no interest in depriving Egypt of water, he stressed. “Ethiopia has no—or should not have—any particular interest to starve or stop Egypt from surviving because of lack of water,” he noted, emphasizing that Egypt is Ethiopia’s downstream neighbor. Professor Berhanu finally called for nations in the region to shift from attempts to weaken one another toward cooperation aimed at improving the livelihoods of their peoples. “If we sit down, rather than trying to weaken each other, and gather our forces, gather our energy, and work together for the prosperity of all the peoples of this region; I think that’s a much better and wiser strategy than this continuous, silly attempt to weaken Ethiopia,” he underscored.

Addis Ababa, Sep 3, 2026 (ENA) —Egypt must accept a new regional reality and recognize Ethiopia’s right to develop its water resources, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Tibor Nagy told Pulse of Africa, arguing that Cairo can no longer rely on its historical dominance to dictate terms over the Abay/Nile. In an exclusive interview with Pulse of Africa, Nagy argued that Egypt’s long-standing dominance over the Nile had allowed it to dictate terms for generations, despite being a downstream country that contributes no water to the river. He said Cairo had become accustomed to the notion that it could claim virtually complete control over the Abay/Nile, an approach he suggested is increasingly out of step with the region’s changing political and economic realities. Nagy said Egypt “has to accept a new reality,” pointing to Ethiopia’s rapid development and the shifting balance of power in the region. He argued that the region’s political landscape has changed significantly, saying Egypt must recognize that in 2026 there is a new balance of power, and that Ethiopia has grown tremendously. Nagy said Ethiopia is in a “very fast nation-building mode” and has rights to Abay/Nile waters that were historically denied to it. Nagy said a lasting agreement would be possible if Egypt reassessed its approach to the negotiations and entered the talks with a fundamentally different outlook. He argued that a shift toward mutual recognition and respect for the rights and dignity of all countries involved could pave the way for a “win-win” agreement over the Abay/Nile. “Both nations start with a new attitude and come out with an agreement that everybody will be happy with,” he said. Nagy also rejected the idea that Ethiopia's use of its own natural resources should be regarded as selfish or an existential threat to Egypt. “Countries use their own natural resources. Now, you know, let's get real,” he said. Nagy further questioned Egypt's position on Ethiopia's access to the Red Sea, contrasting it with Cairo's claims concerning the Nile. “If Egypt is saying that only the littoral states to the Red Sea have any say in management questions, then only the states that contribute water to the Nile would have any say on use of the Nile,” he said, describing the position as “sheer hypocrisy.” Addressing Ethiopia’s quest for access to the sea, Nagy said it was “absolutely essential” for the country to have some form of maritime outlet, describing Ethiopia as the world’s largest landlocked country while emphasizing its long history of access to the sea. Recalling Ethiopia’s former maritime presence, he noted that the country once had its own navy, a naval base and Ethiopian admirals serving in its maritime forces. Nagy described the loss of Ethiopia’s access to the sea as “a very unfortunate outcome,” framing the country’s current pursuit of maritime access as connected to its historical relationship with the Red Sea. Therefore, Nagy argued that Ethiopia’s quest for access to the sea is a legitimate aspiration, urging neighboring countries to show greater understanding of Ethiopia’s interests.

Addis Ababa, Sep 2, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia’s post-reform security transformation has significantly strengthened the defense capabilities of the country’s federal police, intelligence services and national defense forces, Deputy Chairman of the House of People’s Representatives (HPR) Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs Standing Committee, Fethi Mahdi said. The reforms have introduced institutional and technological upgrades aimed at improving national security and strengthening the country’s ability to respond to internal and external threats, he said. Fethi also said the transformation is increasingly incorporating artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies to fortify sovereignty against internal and external threats. “Without such modern technology, national security, national sovereignty, and the safety and respect of its people cannot be safeguarded,” he noted. He further underscored investments in artificial intelligence, advanced communications systems and modern operating platforms as central pillars of Ethiopia’s evolving defense readiness. Speaking to ENA, Fethi emphasized that the technological and institutional reforms are essential not only for deterring external aggression and addressing internal conflicts but also for enabling Ethiopia to respond decisively to threats against its territorial integrity. “These initiatives point to a growing institutional capability meant to not only stop and safeguard Ethiopia from any attack but also defeat and subjugate it,” he said, signaling a shift toward a more proactive and technology-enabled defense posture. At the core of the transformation, Fethi said, is a strong sense of patriotism among the country’s security personnel. Fethi identified the restructuring of national institutions to ensure broader representation of Ethiopia’s diverse population as one of the major achievements of the reform process. One of the biggest accomplishments following government reform focuses at changing institutions to represent all Ethiopians, honor Ethiopia's various ethnic groups, include every citizen, and genuinely reflect the entirety of Ethiopia, he said. According to him, the transformation is evident across the federal police, National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS), and Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF), where recruitment practices increasingly seek to ensure representation from all regions and communities. “Every Ethiopian, every area, and every ethnic group helps to comprise the open and accepting recruiting process,” he said, describing the change as a departure from previously centralized structures toward institutions that better reflect Ethiopia’s diverse society. Beyond inclusivity, Fethi stressed the need to equip security institutions with advanced technologies while developing highly skilled personnel capable of effectively operating and utilizing them. He also said combining institutional reform, technological advancement and professional capacity building would be crucial to further strengthening Ethiopia’s national defense and security capabilities.

Addis Ababa, Sep 2, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia will observe Pagume, the country’s unique 13th month, with nationwide activities highlighting national revival, resilience, unity, diversity, and development achievements, the Government Communication Service (GCS) said. Briefing journalists today, GCS State Minister Kebede Desisa said the five days of Pagume in 2018 E.C. will be marked under the overarching theme “Ethiopia’s Revival,” with each day featuring a distinct sub-theme and a range of public activities. According to the state minister, Pagume One will be observed as Leap Day, highlighting Ethiopia’s progress in overcoming slow economic growth and showcasing major achievements and breakthroughs. Pagume Two, designated Revival Day, will feature activities demonstrating the country’s progress toward comprehensive development and highlighting efforts to address longstanding development bottlenecks. Pagume Three, observed as Resilience Day, will commemorate Ethiopia’s longstanding historical perseverance and honor past heroes while recognizing the emergence of new ones. A national flag-raising ceremony will be held at 6:00 a.m. Pagume Four, designated Diversity Day, will feature activities aimed at strengthening unity, cooperation, and consultation. The day will include free health services for 150,000 people, sports activities, student support programs, communal meal sharing and blood donation campaigns. Pagume Five, observed as Tomorrow’s Day, will focus on Ethiopia’s digital transformation, digital infrastructure and advances in artificial intelligence. The celebrations are intended to highlight Ethiopia’s achievements and ongoing efforts to build a resilient, united and development-oriented nation, according to GCS.

Addis Ababa, Sep 2, 2026 (ENA) — African countries need nationally owned, adequately financed early warning systems integrated into risk-informed development planning to protect economic and social progress from growing climate-related risks, the Ministry of Planning and Development said. Speaking at the Africa Early Warning Forum in Addis Ababa, Chief of Staff and Special Adviser at the Ministry, Hanna Abebe, said effective early warning systems should be treated as essential investments in human security, resilience and sustainable development. Climate-related hazards and disasters are becoming more frequent, intense and complex across Africa, threatening communities, infrastructure, livelihoods and development gains, Hanna said. She cited droughts, floods and extreme temperatures among the hazards increasingly affecting communities, with their impacts particularly severe for women, children and people living in fragile and conflict-affected settings. Hanna said strengthening early warning systems requires addressing persistent gaps in forecasting infrastructure, institutional coordination, last-mile communication and sustainable financing. She further noted that early warning systems should be nationally owned, adequately financed and integrated into development planning. She called for strengthening the entire early warning value chain, from risk knowledge and forecasting to communication, preparedness and anticipatory action, to ensure that warnings reach communities most exposed to hazards. “No country or institution can achieve this alone,” Hanna said, calling for stronger cooperation among governments, regional institutions, development and humanitarian partners, scientific institutions, civil society and the private sector. She said telecommunications providers, satellite and geospatial companies, financial institutions, insurers, as well as artificial intelligence and data firms, can play important roles in expanding access to early warning information, improving forecasting and strengthening anticipatory action. Hanna further stressed the need to move beyond short-term projects and establish sustainable financing mechanisms capable of supporting early warning systems over the long term. Africa has made progress in expanding multi-hazard early warning coverage. According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), the number of African countries reporting such systems increased from 10 in 2015 to 26 in 2023. However, WMO Director of the Regional Office for Africa Agnes Kijazi said significant gaps remain in observation networks, forecasting, infrastructure, connectivity, institutional coordination, last-mile communication and sustainable financing. She said the 2027 target of the UN-led Early Warnings for All initiative should be viewed as an important milestone rather than an endpoint.   Kijazi stressed that the effectiveness of early warning systems should be measured by whether they are operational, trusted, nationally owned, effectively governed, capable of reaching communities at the last mile, and financially sustainable. She also underscored the importance of strengthening National Meteorological and Hydrological Services through improved observation and data exchange, forecasting and warning services, impact-based forecasting and institutional capacity. Investments in climate services, hydrometeorological capacity, water adaptation and resilience should reinforce national systems and regional cooperation rather than remain isolated projects, she added. The African Union Commission (AUC) also called for a coordinated continental approach to strengthen early warning and early action. Harsen Nyambe, AUC Director for Sustainable Environment and Blue Economy, on his part, said disasters across Africa have become increasingly frequent and complex, with different regions facing droughts, floods, earthquakes and other hazards. He also said that early warning should not be treated as an end in itself, stressing the need to strengthen the entire chain from risk knowledge and forecasting to dissemination, preparedness and timely response. Nyambe said the African Union Multi Hazard Early Warning and Early Action System (AMHEWAS) serves as the continent’s mechanism for delivering early warning while complementing the global Early Warnings for All initiative. He called on the forum to develop a roadmap for advancing Early Warnings for All beyond 2027 while strengthening efforts to protect people and safeguard Africa’s development gains. The three-day forum in Addis Ababa brings together African and international stakeholders to advance early warning and early action across the continent.

Addis Ababa, Sep 1, 2026 (ENA) — Director General for Middle East, Asia and Pacific Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dewano Kedir, today received a multinational delegation from India’s National Defense College, led by Major General Pawanpal Singh, Senior Directing Staff, as part of its study visit to Ethiopia. Welcoming the delegation, Ambassador Dewano underscored the longstanding historical bonds and steadily expanding diplomatic ties between Ethiopia and India. He highlighted the two countries’ growing strategic partnership, particularly in the areas of trade and investment, and noted the significant contribution of Indian investors to Ethiopia’s economy. He also highlighted the strong and longstanding cooperation between the two countries in the defense sector. The delegation noted that its members from India, Tanzania, Bangladesh, Germany, Myanmar, and Nepal are visiting various Ethiopian institutions as part of their study tour to gain a broader understanding of Ethiopia and its regional role. During the meeting, a presentation was also delivered on Ethiopia’s current political and economic landscape, its regional engagement, and its broader role in international affairs.

Addis Ababa, Sep 1, 2026 (ENA) — Water stored in Egypt’s downstream reservoirs suffers from high rates of evaporation due to the country’s hot desert climate, according to Fekahmed Negash, Chairperson of the Advisory Team on Transboundary Water and GERD at Ethiopia’s Ministry of Water and Energy. Fekahmed, a former member of Ethiopia’s GERD negotiation team and former Executive Director of the Eastern Nile Technical Regional Office (ENTRO), emphasized that Ethiopia’s deep and narrow highland gorges provide far more favorable conditions for water storage. Storing water in these cooler highland areas, he argued, could ultimately benefit the entire Nile Basin countries. He contrasted these conditions with the Aswan High Dam, whose vast reservoir lies in Egypt’s hot desert environment and is exposed to substantial evaporation losses. Fekahmed estimated that the Aswan High Dam loses about 15 to 16 billion cubic meters of water annually through evaporation. “Storing water in Ethiopia, where the gorges are deep and narrow and the temperature is ambient, can minimize this evaporation,” he said. He said shifting a greater share of water storage upstream to Ethiopia could save a significant volume of water that would otherwise be lost to evaporation, increasing the amount eventually released downstream. “This will definitely save a large part of the water lost to evaporation and increase the amount of water released downstream,” Fekahmed said. According to Fekahmed, the potential benefits of Ethiopian highland storage extend beyond reducing evaporation. He identified reduced sedimentation as another major advantage for downstream countries, particularly Egypt. Large quantities of silt transported from the Ethiopian highlands accumulate in Lake Nasser behind the Aswan High Dam, gradually reducing its storage capacity. “The construction of dams in Ethiopia can reduce the amount of silt arriving at the Naser Lake thereby extending its useful life,” he said. By trapping sediment upstream, Ethiopian dams could reduce the amount of silt reaching downstream reservoirs and help preserve their long term storage capacity, he added. Upstream storage could also provide downstream countries with greater protection against extreme flooding, Fekahmed said. Although severe floods are relatively infrequent, he noted that extreme events can pose serious risks to downstream infrastructure. He recalled that during a major flood event in 2005, Egyptian engineers opened the Western Spillway and diverted billions of cubic meters of water into the Toshka Valley. Greater storage capacity in Ethiopia could help regulate extreme flows within the basin and reduce the pressure of major floods on downstream infrastructure, according to Fekahmed. The benefits of Ethiopian reservoirs are not limited to water conservation, he said. Fekahmed said cascade hydropower development in Ethiopia could generate electricity beyond domestic requirements, creating opportunities for downstream countries to access clean and affordable energy. “The fourth benefit is access to cheap and clean electricity from Ethiopia,” he said. Such energy cooperation could provide an additional basis for economic integration among Nile Basin countries, he added. Fekahmed also linked increased upstream storage to the Nile Basin’s ability to cope with climate change. He said climate change is increasingly manifested through flooding, drought and variability in river flows. “Construction of cascade dams in Ethiopia will increase the storage capacity in the basin,” he noted. Water stored in Ethiopia could then be released downstream when needed, helping countries manage periods of excessive or reduced river flow, he added. Fekahmed further said studies indicate that shifting water storage toward Ethiopia’s highland gorges could save substantial quantities of water currently lost through evaporation. He estimated that evaporation from dams in Egypt and Sudan amounts to about 20 billion cubic meters annually. Fekahmed said the potential benefits of upstream storage highlight the need for greater cooperation among Nile Basin countries. He argued that water storage should be considered from the perspective of the entire basin rather than solely through the interests of individual countries. Ethiopian highland reservoirs, he said, can simultaneously contribute to reducing evaporation losses, controlling sedimentation, regulating floods, generating clean energy and strengthening climate resilience. “For this to happen, there is a need for trust and confidence to be built among the nations,” Fekahmed said. His comments come amid renewed debate over Ethiopia’s plans to develop additional dams on the Abay (Blue Nile). Fekahmed’s assessment presents upstream storage as an opportunity to improve water management across the Nile Basin, arguing that the favorable storage conditions of Ethiopia’s highlands could generate benefits extending well beyond Ethiopia’s borders.

Addis Aaba, September 1, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s role as the source of the Abay (Nile) River fueled plots by Egyptian politicians and their allies to weaken the nation and deny it Red Sea access, former Water Minister and Ambassador Shiferaw Jarso told ENA. He further stated that the country has been still actively seeking to undermine Ethiopia’s strategic interests in the Red Sea by exploiting internal divisions and supporting forces that weaken the country. Ambassador Shiferaw linked Ethiopia’s current geopolitical pressures over sea access to the circumstances surrounding Eritrea’s separation from Ethiopia, arguing that both external actors and internal political forces contributed to the loss of Ethiopia’s maritime and territorial interests. Many observers say one of the most consequential examples of Egypt’s divisive regional approach is its historical involvement in the Eritrean question and the broader struggle over Ethiopia’s territorial integrity. Cairo was overtly supporting separatist forces and political projects intended to weaken Ethiopia and constrain its regional influence, according to them.   The eventual separation of Eritrea from Ethiopia remains a defining episode in the Horn of Africa’s turbulent history and a powerful reminder of how external geopolitical calculations can reshape the destiny of nations. Historical diplomacy reveals that Egyptian politician Boutros Boutros-Ghali, who served as acting Foreign Minister before becoming UN Secretary-General, played a pivotal role in advancing the Eritrean secession project to permanently weaken Ethiopia, it was learned. Shiferaw said the loss of access to the Red Sea ports of Massawa and Assab has imposed profound economic and strategic costs on Ethiopia for nearly three decades, describing the development as a historic injustice with lasting consequences for the country. Ambassador Shiferaw further argued that a government without a strong popular mandate lacked the legitimacy to make decisions that would permanently reshape Ethiopia’s maritime position. According to him, efforts to constrain Ethiopia’s regional influence have persisted despite the country’s position as the source of the Nile, with maritime isolation compounding broader geopolitical and economic pressures.   He described reliable sea access as an existential and generational issue for Ethiopia, saying it is fundamentally tied to national security, economic growth, sovereignty and long-term regional stability. “Ethiopia cannot remain permanently disconnected from the sea,” Ambassador Shiferaw said, pointing to the country’s population, expanding economy, growing import-export trade, geographical proximity to the Red Sea and historical ties to regional ports. Ethiopia historically administered Massawa and Assab and maintained naval capabilities before Eritrea’s separation. Ambassador Shiferaw said these historical links, together with Ethiopia’s present-day economic weight and geographic realities, reinforce the country’s case for pursuing sustainable maritime access. He commended the Ethiopian government’s ongoing diplomatic efforts to bring the issue of sea access to greater international attention, saying Ethiopia should continue pursuing the matter through peaceful and legally grounded channels. The ambassador stressed that Ethiopia’s quest for sea access should be resolved through dialogue, mutual understanding, international law and mutually beneficial arrangements, rather than confrontation.   He also underscored the importance of Ethiopia’s transboundary rivers to downstream countries, arguing that the same principle of shared benefit should guide discussions over maritime access. A peaceful, balanced and legally grounded solution, he said, would not only address Ethiopia’s strategic interests but could also contribute to greater stability and economic cooperation across the Red Sea and Horn of Africa region.

Addis Ababa, August 31, 2026 (ENA) —The African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has reaffirmed that the African diaspora is an integral part of the African family and an essential partner in the implementation of Agenda 2063. AUC Chairperson Youssouf made the remarks in a message issued in connection with the International Day for People of African Descent. The Chairperson also emphasized that Africans and people of African descent belong to one family, united by a shared history and a common aspiration to build a better future together. In his message, Youssouf also extended his warmest wishes to the hundreds of millions of people of African descent across the Americas, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia and the Pacific. He further clarified that the day celebrates the deep bonds connecting Africa with its diaspora and highlights the shared identity and historical ties that unite Africans and people of African descent across continents and generations. As the Second International Decade for People of African Descent (2025–2034), centered on recognition, justice and development, continues, the Chairperson stated the Commission’s commitment to advancing these objectives and to combating racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and all related forms of intolerance. The African Union recognizes its diaspora as an integral part of the African family and an essential partner in the implementation of Agenda 2063, according to the statement. The commitment is also reflected in the African Union Decade of Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations (2026–2035), efforts to develop a Common African Position on reparations, and initiatives to strengthen partnerships with the Caribbean, Latin America and African communities around the world. Youssouf also paid tribute to the contributions of people of African descent to the development, culture and progress of societies worldwide. “The history of Africa and its diaspora are inseparable. Their futures must be equally so,” he said. The AUC Chairperson also wished people of African descent around the world peace, dignity, justice and prosperity, reaffirming the African Union’s determination to work with them toward building a stronger, more united and cohesive global African community.

By Staff Writer August 30, 2026 Ethiopia’s week unfolded at the intersection of continental diplomacy, health cooperation and the country’s broader development ambitions, with Addis Ababa once again serving as a major platform for regional and international engagement. From hosting the 76th Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa (RC76) to renewed national discussions on development along the Abay River and Ethiopia’s pursuit of sovereign sea access, the week highlighted a central theme: Ethiopia’s determination to advance development while deepening regional cooperation and economic integration. The developments also underscored the growing importance of the Abay River and the Red Sea in Ethiopia’s long-term economic strategy—one focused on energy security, connectivity, trade and regional prosperity. Ethiopia Hosts Africa’s Leading Health Forum Addis Ababa took center stage in Africa’s health diplomacy as Ethiopia hosted the 76th Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa. Co-organized by Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa, the three-day meeting brought together President Taye Atske Selassie, African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Health Minister Dr. Mekdes Daba, and delegates from 47 WHO African Region member states, alongside ministers, global health leaders, development partners, donors and WHO representatives.   The gathering reviewed progress on regional health priorities and considered new strategies, resolutions and collective actions aimed at strengthening health systems, advancing universal health coverage, improving health security and enhancing emergency preparedness. It also provided an opportunity to showcase Ethiopia’s progress in expanding essential health services and strengthening its capacity to respond to public health emergencies. The WHO Regional Committee for Africa, the governing body of WHO’s African regional office, meets annually to shape regional health policy, review the organization’s work and establish priorities for improving health outcomes across the continent. Africa’s Health Future Must Be African-Led A strong message emerging from the gathering was the need for greater African ownership of the continent’s health agenda. President Taye Atske Selassie called for a new approach centered on African priorities, stronger integration and measurable action, arguing that the continent’s next chapter in health should be driven increasingly by domestic capacity rather than fragmented responses and prolonged dependence. External assistance, he noted, can complement national health objectives, but development support should respond to Africa’s priorities rather than being shaped primarily by reform agendas designed elsewhere. “We must not sit here and adapt to reforms designed elsewhere,” President Taye said, urging African countries instead to “shape the reform agendas” according to their own priorities and vision. AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf similarly stressed that health sovereignty is becoming an essential component of Africa’s development agenda.   He pointed to persistent and emerging challenges, including Ebola, cholera, Mpox, HIV and tuberculosis, as well as the growing burden of non-communicable diseases. At the same time, he highlighted structural constraints facing African health systems, including limited infrastructure, inadequate financing and shortages of trained health professionals. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom noted that Africa has continued to make progress toward important health targets despite facing some of the deepest reductions in international health financing in a generation. The discussions therefore went beyond public health emergencies, touching on a broader question of how Africa can build resilient, self-reliant and sustainable development systems. Abay River: Development, Energy and Regional Cooperation Alongside health diplomacy, the Abay River remained central to Ethiopia’s national development discourse. Ethiopia views the Abay—one of the major contributors to the Nile, as a critical resource for expanding electricity generation, supporting industrialization and strengthening economic transformation. The inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) marked a major milestone in that development trajectory. The project, Africa’s largest hydropower facility, has been presented by Ethiopia as a cornerstone of its ambition to expand electricity access, accelerate industrial development and strengthen its position as a regional energy hub.   The GERD has also intensified the broader regional debate over the equitable and reasonable utilization of shared Nile waters. Ethiopia maintains that the development of its water resources should be pursued in accordance with principles of equitable and reasonable utilization, while recognizing the interests and concerns of other Nile Basin countries. Against this backdrop, former Water Minister Shiferaw Jarso told ENA that Ethiopia should remain firm in pursuing its development interests on the Abay River. He also called for Egypt to compensate Ethiopia for the use of its water resources, citing Ethiopia’s contribution of about 86 percent of the Nile’s flow through the Abay system. Shiferaw argued that continued Egyptian opposition would not prevent Ethiopia from developing additional water infrastructure and reiterated Ethiopia’s longstanding position on the equitable utilization of Nile waters. Similarly, Water Resources researcher Professor Yacob Arsano noted that Egypt’s accusations against Ethiopia over the Abay (Nile) River, despite Egypt contributing no water to the river’s flow, are baseless and completely unacceptable. He stressed that Ethiopia has no allocated share of the Nile waters under the 1959 Nile Waters Agreement, to which Ethiopia was not a party. “Ethiopia has a legitimate right to utilize its water resources for development while ensuring equitable and reasonable use of the Nile waters,” Professor Yacob underscored. He said Egypt has historically sought to hinder Ethiopia’s development and progress, including by supporting internal groups, to prevent the country from utilizing its abundant natural resources. Red Sea Access: From Strategic Necessity to Regional Opportunity Ethiopia’s pursuit of sovereign sea access also remained an important part of the country’s development discourse. For Africa’s second-most populous country, which is landlocked, access to maritime trade routes carries significant economic implications for logistics, trade competitiveness, industrialization and regional connectivity.   Fethi Mahdi, Deputy Chairman of the Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs Standing Committee of the House of Peoples’ Representatives, told ENA that Ethiopia’s demand for sea access extends beyond cargo handling and transshipment. He emphasized that the issue has a broader economic foundation, citing United Nations studies indicating that landlocked countries can face significant economic disadvantages compared with countries that have direct access to the sea. Ethiopia has repeatedly framed its quest for sea access around sovereign access, mutual benefit, peaceful dialogue and partnership with neighboring countries. The emphasis is increasingly shifting from the question of access alone to the larger economic possibilities that maritime connectivity could unlock for the Horn of Africa: expanded trade, integrated infrastructure, investment, industrial corridors and stronger regional markets. In this sense, Ethiopia’s maritime ambition can potentially become not only a national economic project but also an opportunity for regional economic integration and shared prosperity. Thailand-Ethiopia Ties Gain Strategic Momentum Ethiopia’s diplomatic engagement also gained momentum during the week with the official visit of Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow. The visit reflected Thailand’s interest in deepening its bilateral relationship with Ethiopia while expanding its engagement with Africa through the African Union, headquartered in Addis Ababa. Phuangketkeow said his visit had two strategic objectives: strengthening Thailand’s partnership with Ethiopia and broadening Thailand’s engagement with Africa through the AU.   The development points to Addis Ababa’s continuing importance as a diplomatic bridge between Africa and the wider world. Beyond traditional political relations, Ethiopia and Thailand have opportunities to expand cooperation in trade, investment, technology, tourism, agriculture, manufacturing and connectivity, potentially linking Southeast Asian expertise and markets with Africa’s growing economic opportunities. The relationship therefore carries significance beyond bilateral diplomacy, particularly as both sides seek new partnerships in an increasingly interconnected global economy. Ethiopia Pushes Youth-Centered Growth Through BRICS Ethiopia also used the BRICS platform to advance its economic and development priorities, calling for stronger investment in Africa’s young population. At the BRICS Youth Ministers’ Meeting in Visakhapatnam, India, the Ethiopian delegation called for dedicated financing mechanisms for youth-led enterprises and greater investment in digital and green technologies. With more than 70 percent of Ethiopia’s population under the age of 30, the delegation emphasized that young people should be viewed not simply as beneficiaries of development but as drivers of innovation, entrepreneurship, productivity and economic transformation.   The call for dedicated financing and joint investment reflects Ethiopia’s broader push to connect its youthful population with emerging opportunities in technology, green development and entrepreneurship. A Week Defined by Development and Diplomacy Taken together, the week offered a snapshot of Ethiopia’s increasingly interconnected development agenda. Hosting Africa’s leading health forum reinforced Addis Ababa’s role as a center of continental diplomacy. Discussions over the Abay River highlighted Ethiopia’s determination to expand energy and water-resource development. The pursuit of sea access underscored the economic importance of maritime connectivity, while engagement with Thailand and BRICS demonstrated Ethiopia’s effort to diversify partnerships and mobilize new opportunities for investment, technology and trade. These developments point toward a broader strategic vision in which development, diplomacy and economic integration increasingly reinforce one another. For Ethiopia, the challenge ahead is not simply to pursue national development objectives, but to translate them into platforms for cooperation that can generate benefits beyond its borders. The Abay River can become a foundation for energy and economic transformation; improved maritime connectivity can strengthen regional trade; health cooperation can build continental resilience; and youth investment can drive the next generation of African growth. Ultimately, Ethiopia’s evolving development narrative is increasingly about turning strategic geography and natural resources into engines of economic opportunity—while building partnerships capable of converting regional challenges into shared solutions.

Addis Ababa, August 30, 2026 (ENA) —Thailand is seeking to deepen its strategic engagement with Ethiopia and expand its partnership with Africa, with Addis Ababa emerging as a key bridge between Southeast Asia and the African continent, Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow told ENA. Following his official visit to Ethiopia, Phuangketkeow said his visit to Addis Ababa had two strategic objectives: strengthening Thailand’s bilateral relationship with Ethiopia and expanding Thailand’s engagement with Africa through the African Union (AU), whose headquarters are located in the Ethiopian capital. “Today, after my meeting with the foreign minister of your country, we sign an MOU establishing regular political consultations at the high level between our two countries. So this will help give us the political impetus. It will underscore the political will and give us the impetus to enhance the other dimensions of our relations,” he added. Elaborating on elevating the political engagement of Ethiopia and Thailand, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister stated that the two countries signed a MoU to establish regular high-level political consultations, giving fresh momentum to bilateral ties. The mechanism would reinforce political commitment and provide new impetus for cooperation across multiple areas. “More contacts at the high level and more exchange of visits” are essential to strengthening ties, he noted. Thailand has also decided to establish an embassy in Addis Ababa with a resident ambassador who will represent Thailand in Ethiopia while also serving as the country’s representative to the African Union.   The move marks a significant step in Thailand’s effort to strengthen its diplomatic presence in Africa and use Addis Ababa as a platform for broader engagement with the continent. Against this backdrop, Thailand is advancing its Thailand-Africa Initiative, aimed at deepening economic, political and development partnerships with African countries. Thailand is reaching out to new partners while also strengthening long-standing relationships, he elaborated. Recognizing Africa’s growing economic and geopolitical weight, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister said, “we need to reach out to new friends, new partners, and even partners that we have known for a long time. We think that we can do much more together”. Phuangketkeow underscored that Africa is no longer viewed through the lens of its past, but as a continent of rising economies and an increasingly influential force in global affairs. “Africa is not like the past anymore. Many of the African countries are emerging economies; and Africa is an important and strong voice in the Global South.” Stressing Addis Ababa as a bridge between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) that has 11 member states and Africa, Phuangketkeow said Ethiopia and Thailand can play an important role in building stronger bridges between the African Union and ASEAN. With Timor-Leste becoming ASEAN’s 11th member, the Southeast Asian bloc represents a market and political grouping of nearly 700 million people. As both the ASEAN and the AU expand their influence in global affairs, the DPM and Minister pointed out that stronger interregional cooperation is increasingly important in addressing shared global challenges. “We need to build bridges within regions and bridges across regions,” he said. The DPM and Minister identified safeguarding the rules-based international order, preserving free trade and strengthening the multilateral trading system under the World Trade Organization (WTO) as key areas where ASEAN and African countries can work more closely. Phuangketkeow warned that the increasing use of tariffs and bilateral trade pressure as instruments of leverage could undermine the multilateral trading system. The Thai Deputy PM and foreign minister also welcomed Ethiopia’s progress toward joining the WTO, describing deeper integration into the international trading system as beneficial to Ethiopia’s economic development. He said WTO accession would encourage Ethiopia to engage more actively with international trade rules and the global economy.   Thailand, he added, is interested in expanding bilateral trade and investment while sharing its development experience with Ethiopia, particularly in industrialization and agricultural value addition. “We want to see more economic ties, greater trade and more investment,” Phuangketkeow said. He emphasized that stronger economic growth in Ethiopia would create greater opportunities for businesses from both countries.

Addis Ababa, August 30, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has extended his condolences to His Majesty King Haakon VIII, the successor of the late Norwegian king, to the royal family, to the government, and to the people of Norway on the passing of His Majesty King Harald V. The Premier wrote: “On behalf of the Government and People of Ethiopia, I extend our heartfelt condolences to His Majesty King Haakon VIII, the Royal Family, the Government, and the People of Norway on the passing of His Majesty King Harald V.” PM Abiy noted that Norway is a steadfast partner to Ethiopia and Ethiopia stands with the Norwegian people in this time of loss.