Addis Ababa, October 4, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia, consistent with its sovereign right and water policy as well as international laws, is completing a big dam on Magech River for irrigation and water supply purposes, Water and Energy Minister Habtamu Itefa told ENA. “It is shameful to hear Egyptian politicians say that Ethiopia should get consent from them to build dams that do not have significant harm on the country,” he added. Egyptian policymakers should revisit the history of the Aswan High Dam and consider whether Ethiopia was consulted before its construction. “If so, they should have consulted Ethiopia when they built Aswan Dam. But they didn’t.” Habtamu argued that the Nile cannot be treated as the exclusive preserve of downstream countries, stressing that Ethiopia, as an upstream riparian state, has the right to develop its water resources. Egypt’s continued insistence on prior consent reflects an outdated approach to Nile governance and a lingering reliance on arrangements established during the colonial era, the Minister stressed. “They say, ‘We belong to the Nile, the Nile belongs to us.’” the Minister said, adding that such a view overlooks the interests of Ethiopia’s population and the country’s contribution to the Nile system. The Minister also rejected the argument that Ethiopia’s water-development projects amount to “abstraction” of Abay (Nile) water, saying the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) was primarily constructed for hydropower generation. Megech is also an indirect tributary of the Nile that causes no significant harm on Egyptians. “Ethiopia has the right to use irrigation as well,” he said, adding that the country would continue developing water infrastructure according to its national priorities. He cited the ongoing development of the Magech project as an example of Ethiopia’s exercise of its sovereign development rights. “Ethiopia is a sovereign country. We do have our system, we do have our policy, we do have our government,” Habtamu said. At the same time, the Minister stressed that Ethiopia’s position does not amount to hostility toward downstream populations. “We consider our brothers on the downstream side. Egyptians, and particularly Sudanese, are our brothers,” he said, adding that Ethiopia maintains close social, cultural and historical ties with Sudan and South Sudan. Ethiopia’s approach is therefore based on development alongside consideration for downstream countries, he noted, rejecting the “colonial mentality” and “hydro-hegemony.” The Minister also argued that opposition to Ethiopia's water-development projects has persisted for decades, including during different political periods in Ethiopia. Egypt had opposed Ethiopian water projects as far back as the 1950s and 1960s and linked such opposition to instability surrounding earlier development initiatives. Those historical claims would require independent documentation beyond the Minister’s account. Habtamu said Ethiopia’s response should be continued development rather than abandoning its water-development ambitions. “As the Minister of Water and Energy, and as a citizen and a professional, the only thing we do is keep developing, keep moving.” The Minister's remarks come amid Egyptian officials saying Ethiopia can’t build additional dam without their consent. For instance, the Ministry of Water and Energy recalled the recent statement of Egyptian Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation suggesting that Ethiopians lack education, which is a manifestation of crude colonial mentality that defines Cairo’s policy in its relations with African states. Ethiopia maintains that it has a sovereign right to develop its water resources under the principle of equitable and reasonable utilization. ENA reported on October 3 that Habtamu also criticized the historical legacy of the Aswan High Dam, saying it was constructed without Ethiopia’s consent. The 1959 Nile Waters Agreement was concluded between Egypt and Sudan and provided for the allocation of Nile waters between the two countries, while Ethiopia was not a party to the agreement. Ethiopia has repeatedly challenged the relevance of arrangements that exclude upstream Nile Basin states and has asserted its right to equitable and reasonable utilization of the river. The remarks also follow Ethiopia’s announcement that it had established a national committee to assess economic losses and foregone development opportunities associated with more than 22 water projects that the government says were blocked or obstructed by Egypt.

Addis Ababa, October 3, 2026 (ENA)—Speaker of the House of People’s Representatives Tagesse Chafo has called for the effective implementation of the recommendations of the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (ENDC), saying the outcomes of the national dialogue must be treated with utmost seriousness. Tagesse made the remarks today at a landmark ceremony where the ENDC formally handed over its consolidated agenda items and recommendations to the House of People’s Representatives, the House of Federation, 12 regional state administrations, and the Addis Ababa and Dire Dawa city administrations. Commending the 11 commissioners for their dedication and perseverance, the Speaker said the national dialogue marks an important step toward addressing Ethiopia’s longstanding differences through peaceful, inclusive and constructive consultation. He noted that while Ethiopia has a proud history of defending its sovereignty and independence, it has faced persistent challenges in resolving internal differences through dialogue and consensus. Competing historical narratives, political disagreements and economic divisions have contributed to recurring tensions and conflicts, Tagesse said, adding that the government has undertaken broad reforms to address these longstanding challenges. He described the establishment of the ENDC as a significant platform for bringing Ethiopians together to openly discuss their differences, build understanding and seek common ground. The Speaker also commended Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for the political commitment demonstrated in initiating reforms aimed at responding to longstanding public demands. Tagesse stressed that the completion of the national dialogue should not be seen as an end, but as the beginning of a sustained effort to translate its recommendations into concrete action. He assured participants that the legislative and executive branches will put in place strong follow-up and monitoring mechanisms to ensure effective implementation of the recommendations. Effective implementation, he said, will help strengthen peace, national stability and a shared foundation for Ethiopia’s future.

Addis Ababa, October 3, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopians have demonstrated that they can engage in civilized dialogue, bridge differences and build consensus around shared national concerns, Chief Commissioner of the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (ENDC) Professor Mesfin Araya said. Professor Mesfin made the remarks today as the ENDC formally handed over its consolidated agenda items and recommendations to the House of People’s Representatives, the Federal Government and Regional Governments.   The handover ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, senior federal and regional officials, members of the diplomatic community and representatives of international organizations. In his briefing, Professor Mesfin said the Commission, established under Proclamation No. 1265/2021, was mandated to help address Ethiopia’s longstanding historical grievances and differences through inclusive, peaceful and structured dialogue. Since its establishment, the Commission conducted a nationwide consultation across Ethiopia’s 12 regional states and the two city administrations of Addis Ababa and Dire Dawa, gathering more than 2,000 agenda submissions from citizens. The submissions were subsequently consolidated into eight major thematic areas to provide a framework for national dialogue and consensus-building. The process culminated in a national conference in Addis Ababa that brought together 4,000 delegates representing different sections of Ethiopian society, including women, youth, elders, religious leaders, political parties, members of the diaspora and persons with disabilities. According to Professor Mesfin, the conference demonstrated that Ethiopians with different views can come together, engage in respectful and constructive discussions, and identify common ground on issues of national importance.   He said the successful completion of the consultative and deliberative phase was made possible by broad public participation and political commitment, which he identified as the two key pillars of an effective national dialogue. The Commission has now submitted its consolidated recommendations to the House of People’s Representatives, the House of Federation, federal institutions, and the 12 regional and two city administrations for further consideration and action. Professor Mesfin stressed that implementation is now the critical next step, calling on responsible institutions at federal, regional and local levels to translate the recommendations into concrete policies and actions. He expressed appreciation to citizens, government institutions, civic organizations and other stakeholders for their contributions to the national dialogue process, emphasizing that its lasting impact will depend on sustained commitment to implementing its outcomes.

Addis Ababa, October 3, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced that the consolidated agenda items and recommendations that emerged from Ethiopia’s National Dialogue have been formally handed over to the House of People’s Representatives, the Federal Government, and Regional Governments. “I attended and oversaw the formal handover,” the Prime Minister shared on social media channels today, describing the development as an important milestone in the country’s National Dialogue process. The handover marks a transition from national deliberation to the institutional consideration of recommendations emerging from the dialogue, which brought together participants from diverse sections of Ethiopian society. The National Dialogue reached consensus across its eight thematic pillars before moving into the harmonization and consolidation of recommendations.   The process was designed to bring together differing perspectives on major national issues and build areas of common understanding. Prime Minister Abiy said the latest step reaffirms the commitment to addressing Ethiopia’s longstanding challenges through inclusive dialogue, peaceful deliberation and nationally owned solutions. The National Dialogue has been presented as an effort to address deep-rooted national questions through consensus-building rather than confrontation. Earlier, the Premier described the process as an opportunity to address longstanding political challenges and help forge a new, inclusive national social contract.   The Ethiopian National Dialogue Conference concluded in August after 40 days of deliberations involving 4,000 participants, with discussions covering various issues.

Addis Ababa, October 3, 2026 (ENA)—Minister of Water and Energy Habtamu Itefa underscored that the historical legacy of Egypt’s Aswan High Dam and its construction caused major social disruption while proceeding without Ethiopia’s consent. In a social media post early today, Minister Habtamu described the Aswan High Dam as one of Africa’s most consequential mega-dam projects, saying its construction displaced more than 100,000 Nubians and profoundly affected their communities, livelihoods and ancestral lands.   He argued that the history of the Aswan project should be considered in the current debate over Abay (Nile) development and Ethiopia’s right to utilize its water resources. “Ethiopia has a sovereign right to develop and utilize its Nile water resources based on the principle of equitable and reasonable utilization,” Habtamu said, rejecting calls for Ethiopia to obtain prior consent from downstream countries for its water-development projects. The Minister said Ethiopia had repeatedly called for consultation over Nile-water projects, while revealing that historical records from the 1950s documented Ethiopian objections to the lack of broader consultation surrounding the Aswan project and earlier Nile-water arrangements. Against this historical backdrop, Habtamu said the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is governed by a more recent regional framework — the 2015 Declaration of Principles (DoP) signed by Ethiopia, Sudan and Egypt. “Before criticizing Ethiopia, Egypt should explain why it built the Aswan High Dam without Ethiopian consent,” Habtamu said, linking the historical experience of the Aswan project to the contemporary debate over the GERD.   He further stated that Egypt’s historical record weakens its criticism of Ethiopia solely on the grounds of downstream consultation, pointing to the displacement of Nubian communities associated with the Aswan project. “Egypt’s historical record gives it NO moral basis for criticizing Ethiopia solely on the grounds of downstream consultation, because in 1950’s Ethiopia itself formally objected to the lack of consultation over the Aswan High Dam and earlier Nile-water arrangements, while the Aswan project caused large-scale displacement of Nubian communities,” he elaborated.   The GERD, by contrast, was addressed through the 2015 Declaration of Principles signed by Ethiopia, Sudan and Egypt, Minister Habtamu said.

  Addis Ababa, October 2, 2026 (ENA)—Egypt has been attempting to hinder Ethiopia's integrationist role in the region and to obstruct its development, fearing that these might pull the rug out from under its feet, Abdulshakur Abdulsamad, a Senior Researcher at the Center for Strategic Studies and Regional Integration Initiative said. Egypt mistakenly believes that Ethiopia's continuous accelerated pace of development and growth is ominous for its growth, he added. This fear is flawed, the senior researcher stressed. Instead "looking at the matter through the lens of integrated development, cooperation, and partnership saves a great deal of effort and time as it helps harness joint action to achieve mutual benefits and interests for all." According to Abdulshakur, Ethiopia's lack of access to the sea has adversely affected the entire integrated system, which could have fostered and supported regional security and stability in the area. "Before 1993, when Ethiopian naval forces were present in this region, there were no manifestations of piracy, nor was there any maritime tension. Any observer of security and military affairs recognizes the real role played by the Ethiopian Navy in maintaining security and stability in the region," he elaborated. For the senior researcher, Ethiopia's presence at the sea serves as a safety valve and is a genuine guarantee for security and stability, in partnership with the countries of the region. "This direction is reaffirmed by the recent UN-sponsored meeting in Nairobi, which brought together Ethiopia, Somalia, Djibouti, and Yemen to discuss ways to develop this aspect as one of the messages promoting the path," he stated. Abdulshakur argued that the evidence from the past three decades in the Gulf of Aden, Bab al-Mandab, and the Red Sea shows that the escalation of piracy operations did not begin until after Ethiopia became a landlocked nation. "Today, regional and international requirements dictate that Ethiopia be a primary partner in maintaining maritime security and stability," he said. The senior researcher further noted that for Ethiopia a sea outlet is tantamount to the lung through which it breathes. ''It is an indispensable economic, security, and developmental necessity. Added to this is the geopolitical weight represented by Ethiopia as the second most populous nation in Africa, and its economy being one of the strongest developing economies on the continent,"Abdulshakur underscored. He concluded that Ethiopia's significant development growth achieved over the past decades, along with its regional importance and in alignment and consistent with its vision based on shared growth and regional integration with neighboring countries, warrants a sea outlet.

Addis Ababa, October 1, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia has declared an Egyptian diplomatic staff member persona non grata and ordered him to leave the country within 48 hours. Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs formally notified the Egyptian Embassy in Addis Ababa that Ahmed Moharam Ahmed Soliman, a member of Egypt’s diplomatic staff, has been declared persona non grata, the ministry said in a statement. “In accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, the Ministry hereby notifies the Embassy that Ahmed Moharam Ahmed Soliman has been declared persona non grata. The Ministry expects the Embassy's diplomatic staff member to leave Ethiopia within Forty-Eight (48) hours from the date of this notification.” The ministry said the decision was taken in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, the international framework governing diplomatic relations between states. According to the notification, the Egyptian diplomat is going to leave Ethiopia within 48 hours of the date of the communication. The statement added that: “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia avails itself of this opportunity to renew to the Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Addis Ababa the assurances of its highest consideration.”

Staff Writer October 1, 2026 (ENA) From the ballot box to a new government, Ethiopia enters a defining chapter of its democratic journey Ethiopia is moving into a decisive new chapter of its political journey, with the country’s federal government set to be formed following the conclusion of the 7th General Election and the establishment of newly elected regional and city councils. The transition marks a critical moment for Africa’s second-most populous nation, not simply because a new administration is taking shape, but because the country is seeking to translate an enormous electoral exercise into functioning institutions, political representation and a renewed national mandate. On October 5, 2026, Ethiopia is scheduled to inaugurate the newly elected House of People’s Representatives and formally establish the new federal government, completing the constitutional process that followed the June 1 general election. The date represents more than the opening of a new parliamentary term. It is the point at which the ballot box gives way to governance, as elected representatives assume responsibility for translating electoral mandates into policies, laws and public institutions. The 7th General Election was conducted on a scale rarely seen in Ethiopia’s history. More than 54 million citizens registered to vote, while 51.7 million cast ballots, according to the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE). Forty-two political parties fielded 10,438 candidates, alongside 80 independent candidates, in an electoral process that extended across the country. For Ethiopia, the significance of the moment lies not only in the numbers. It lies in what comes next. From Ballots to Institutions The election has now moved beyond campaigning and voting. Its results are being translated into institutional authority. The Prosperity Party secured 438 of the 501 House of Peoples’ Representatives seats for which results were announced, giving it the parliamentary majority required under Ethiopia’s constitutional system to form the federal executive. The result gives the incoming government a clear parliamentary mandate. But the next chapter will ultimately be measured not by the size of the electoral victory, but by how that mandate is converted into effective governance. That responsibility comes at a consequential time. Ethiopia is simultaneously navigating economic reform, national dialogue, peacebuilding, institutional reform, regional diplomacy and an ambitious development agenda. The new administration will therefore inherit not merely the authority to govern, but a broad set of expectations from citizens, businesses, political actors and international partners. The transition from electioneering to governing will be the real test of the country's institutions. Regional Governments Already Taking Shape The federal transition is being preceded by developments at the regional and city levels.Regional councils have begun constituting their governments and electing their chief administrators, providing the institutional foundation for the next phase of governance. In Addis Ababa, the city council unanimously reappointed Adanech Abiebie as mayor on September 30, giving her another term to lead the capital’s administration. The council cited infrastructure development, administrative reforms and citizen-focused services among the areas of her previous tenure. The developments across the regions and the capital demonstrate that Ethiopia's post-election transition is unfolding through multiple layers of its federal structure rather than through a single event in Addis Ababa. This gradual process—from regional councils to the federal parliament—also underscores the constitutional architecture through which political authority is organized in the country. A Constitutional Transfer of Political Authority Ethiopia's Constitution places the House of People’s Representatives at the center of federal legislative authority and provides the constitutional basis for forming the executive following parliamentary elections. Article 56 provides that the political party or coalition holding a majority in the House forms and leads the federal executive. The election result has therefore established the parliamentary basis for the formation of the next government. The significance of October 5 consequently extends beyond ceremony. It represents the institutional point at which the outcome of the June election becomes a new governing arrangement. For a country with Ethiopia's political complexity, maintaining constitutional continuity during this transition carries particular importance. The election attracted significant continental attention, with the African Union deploying an election observation mission led by former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta. The AU subsequently commended the June 1 election, describing it as an important step in Ethiopia’s democratic evolution and recognizing the role of the National Election Board in administering the process. But the AU’s engagement went beyond election monitoring. As the host of the African Union headquarters and a country with a central diplomatic role on the continent, Ethiopia’s political developments carry significance well beyond its borders. As former President Kenyatta noted ahead of the vote, Ethiopia’s election held importance for the wider African continent. That continental attention now turns to what comes next: the peaceful translation of an electoral mandate into constitutional government. With the new House of Peoples’ Representatives set to open and the federal government to be formed on October 5, Ethiopia is approaching a defining moment. One is that will demonstrate whether electoral competition can be followed by orderly constitutional governance, institutional continuity and a peaceful political transition. Representation Beyond the Winning Party The parliamentary majority gives the Prosperity Party the constitutional basis to form the federal government. At the same time, the presence of opposition representatives in federal and regional legislatures means that Ethiopia's political institutions will continue to contain competing political voices. That matters because democracy does not end when the ballots are counted. The post-election parliament becomes the arena in which competing priorities, interests and political perspectives are translated into legislative debate, scrutiny and public policy. For opposition parties, elected representatives and independent voices, the new parliamentary term provides an institutional platform through which they can represent their constituencies and engage in the country's political process. For the governing party, the parliamentary majority brings the corresponding responsibility of translating its mandate into effective administration and public accountability. The Bigger Test: Turning Political Transition into Peace Perhaps the most important question for Ethiopia now is the new political cycle can help deepen peace and institutional stability. Ethiopia's political history has repeatedly demonstrated the cost of unresolved political disputes. The country's current national dialogue and reconciliation efforts are therefore taking place alongside the formation of the new government. The government has repeatedly presented dialogue, reconciliation and constitutional institutions as important instruments for addressing national challenges. The National Dialogue process has also sought to gather views on longstanding political and social issues across the country. The new government will therefore enter office with expectations extending well beyond economic management. Citizens will look to institutions to deliver security, justice, economic opportunity, public services and accountable governance. Political parties will be expected to compete through institutions rather than confrontation. And the international community will watch how Ethiopia's democratic institutions evolve during the new five-year political cycle. A New Chapter, Not an Ending The formation of a new government is often treated as the conclusion of an election. For Ethiopia, it is better understood as the beginning of the more demanding phase.The ballot has expressed a political choice. The councils are being organized. The federal parliament is preparing to open. The constitutional machinery is moving toward the installation of a new executive. Now comes governance. The coming political term will test whether electoral participation can be converted into stronger institutions; whether political competition can coexist with national dialogue; whether constitutional mechanisms can provide space for disagreement without returning the country to confrontation; and whether the enormous expectations generated by Ethiopia's development ambitions can be matched by institutional capacity. Ethiopia is entering this new chapter with the political authority produced by its seventh general election and with institutions that must now carry that mandate into everyday governance. The country’s democratic journey, therefore, does not end with the announcement of results or the swearing-in of a new government. It moves from the ballot box to the institution, from political competition to public responsibility, and from electoral mandate to the harder work of building peace, prosperity and accountable governance. That is the next chapter Ethiopia is preparing to write.

Addis Ababa, October 1, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia has decided to close its Embassy in Asmara, Eritrea, and declared 10 Eritrean diplomats in Addis Ababa persona non grata and ordered them to leave the country within 48 hours. In a statement issued today, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the decision was taken in response to Eritrea’s direct and indirect acts of hostility and belligerence against Ethiopia. It added that ten Eritrean diplomats were declared persona non grata for their involvement in activities that pose a direct threat to Ethiopia’s national security, in breach of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. The diplomats are given 48 hours to leave Ethiopia. The Ministry urged the Eritrean government to cease acts contrary to the principles governing relations between sovereign states. Despite the measures, it said Ethiopia continues to value its historical, cultural and people-to-people ties with Eritrea and remains committed to peaceful coexistence, regional stability and integration. The Ministry also reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes and cooperation with countries in the Horn of Africa to advance lasting peace, security and regional integration.  

Addis Ababa, October 1, 2026 (ENA)— The Office of the Prime Minister stated that Ethiopia has recorded significant developments in logistics, housing, regional infrastructure and diplomatic engagement during September 2026. According to the social media post by the Office of the Prime Minister , Ethiopia registered a range of infrastructure, economic, diplomatic and administrative developments in September 2026, with major activities led by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. On the eve of the Ethiopian New Year, PM Abiy inaugurated the first phase of the expansion of the Mojo Modern Logistics Hub. Built on 60 hectares of land, the expansion includes modern terminals and warehouses capable of handling up to one million 20-foot containers annually. The project demonstrates Ethiopia’s progress toward the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), according to the Office of the Prime Minister. In September, the Prime Minister also witnessed the signing of a framework agreement between the National Bank of Ethiopia and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) for the establishment of Ethiopia’s first specialized mortgage refinancing company. The partnership is aimed at supporting the construction of 1.5 million homes that are affordable and uphold citizens’ dignity, while encouraging private-sector participation. On the diplomatic front, PM Abiy participated in the 18th BRICS Leaders Summit hosted by India. On the sidelines of the summit, he held discussions on bilateral cooperation with leaders of India, Russia, China, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Malaysia, Kazakhstan and Vietnam. The summit also supported Ethiopia’s preparations for COP32 and its bid to accede to the World Trade Organization. It further unanimously welcomed Ethiopia, endorsed by the African Union, as Africa’s sole candidate for representation at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). During the month, PM Abiy made an official working visit to Djibouti, where he joined Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelleh and Aliko Dangote to inaugurate and launch the Dewele-Damerjog Refined Petroleum Products Pipeline Project. The approximately 120-kilometer pipeline connects Damerjog in Djibouti with Dewele in Ethiopia, linking marine fuel receiving and coastal storage facilities with domestic storage and distribution facilities and establishing an integrated fuel logistics system. At the end of September, PM Abiy also attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the Lamu Oil Refinery in Kenya. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony attended by African Heads of State and Government, he described the project as a significant step toward strengthening energy security and advancing regional economic integration in East Africa. The refinery will provide Ethiopia with an additional regional source of refined petroleum, broadening its supply options while creating new opportunities for trade and investment. The month also marked the conclusion of the 2026 Green Legacy Initiative under the theme “Let Us Plant Hope.” PM Abiy and First Lady Zinash Tayachew participated in a tree-planting program alongside senior government officials. In connection with the New Ethiopia Year and the holiday he presented holiday gifts to staff of the Office of the Prime Minister, and donated educational materials to children being raised in the Office’s care and participated in a meal-sharing program with the First Lady.

Addis Ababa, October 1, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia has established a national committee to assess economic losses and foregone development opportunities linked to water projects that have been “blocked or obstructed by Egyptians” over the Nile River, Minister of Water and Energy Habtamu Itefa announced. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Habtamu said the committee has so far identified more than 22 development projects, including the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), that Ethiopia were obstructed by Egypt. “We have established a national committee. And as a {committee}, we counted more than 22 projects that have been blocked or obstructed by Egyptians, including the GERD project,” the Minister disclosed. Ethiopia’s longstanding concerns over Nile Basin development inequalities are gaining growing scholarly support, strengthening its case for redress over historical economic losses and foregone development opportunities. In that regard, Minister Habtamu said the newly established committee is compiling evidence on the projects and examining the basis for Ethiopia’s compensation claims. The assessment involves experts, former ministers, advisers and legal professionals who are examining the scale of the losses and possible approaches for addressing them, he pointed out. “We are already collecting the evidence. We have documented as many of the projects as possible that they (Egyptians) opposed, including the GERD, over which they even attempted to threaten Ethiopia, to say as if they have a giant military power and then come to exercise something, which is really a crime in front of the international community,” Habtamu stated. Habtamu further elaborated that the review will consider not only projects that were prevented from being implemented, but also Ethiopia’s environmental conservation efforts and the benefits its water-management infrastructure provides downstream. He cited the Green Legacy Initiative, under which more than 50 billion trees have reportedly been planted, noting that substantial activities have taken place in major river basins, including the Baro, Abay and Tekeze. Habtamu said this conservation efforts should be considered in assessing Ethiopia’s contribution to protecting water resources and addressing climate-related impacts across the Nile Basin. He also highlighted the GERD’s potential role in regulating river flows, saying its operation could help reduce downstream flooding and maintain water availability during periods of lower rainfall. The Minister pointed to current El Niño-related rainfall conditions as an example of the importance of coordinated water management, saying flow regulation could provide benefits to downstream countries, including Sudan and Egypt. Outlining possible scenarios for securing compensation, the Minister said Ethiopia’s approach would have clear milestones, with negotiation and mutual understanding as the preferred option, while other scenarios would involve Ethiopia taking further action.

Addis Ababa, September 30, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrives in Kenya this morning ahead of the groundbreaking ceremony for the multibillion-dollar Lamu Petroleum Refinery. The project, backed by the Dangote Group, represents a major expansion of regional energy infrastructure in East Africa. Situated along the strategic Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) corridor, the facility is designed to process crude oil and supply refined petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, and aviation fuel, across neighboring markets. Once operational, the refinery will strengthen energy security and deepen trade links across East Africa.

Addis Ababa, September 30, 2026 (ENA) — The Addis Ababa City Council has unanimously reappointed Adanech Abiebie as Mayor of Addis Ababa, entrusting her with another term to lead the administration of the capital. The decision was made during the Council’s fourth session, held at the Adwa Victory Memorial, where members cited Adanech’s leadership, commitment and administrative performance in advancing major infrastructure projects, reforming the city’s working culture and expanding citizen-centered services. Council members also highlighted her extensive administrative experience at regional and federal levels, which began with her work as an educator in the Oromia region before she assumed various leadership responsibilities in federal institutions. In assessing her previous tenure, the Council pointed to the transformation of Addis Ababa’s urban landscape, including major public infrastructure and urban development initiatives, as among the key areas of her administration’s performance. Following her unanimous reappointment, Adanech took the oath of office before the Council, formally beginning another term at the helm of the city administration. In her inaugural address, Mayor Adanech said public office should be viewed as a responsibility to citizens rather than an avenue for personal benefit. She pledged to maintain a firm stance against corruption and illicit market practices. She said the performance of the city administration would ultimately be judged by improvements in residents’ everyday lives—including efforts to ease the cost of living, expand employment opportunities for young people, improve public services and address housing, healthcare and infrastructure needs—rather than by statistical reports alone. Adanech also outlined plans to accelerate the implementation of the Digital Ethiopia 2030 vision in Addis Ababa by expanding digital public services and reducing bureaucratic barriers. She further pledged to tackle market manipulation and the role of illegal brokers, while promoting measures aimed at improving market stability and protecting consumers. On economic inclusion, the Mayor said her administration would seek to reduce dependence on aid by supporting micro and small enterprises and creating greater economic opportunities for young people and women.

Addis Ababa, September 29, 2026 (ENA) —Former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Tibor Nagy sharply criticized Eritrea’s leadership and the conditions facing its population, describing the country as an unstable neighbor in the region. In his recent interview with Pulse of Africa, Nagy said Eritrea has had conflicts with all of its neighbors, including Yemen across the Red Sea. He described President Isaias Afwerki as a dictator, saying, “I have called him a dictator because I believe he is a dictator.” According to Nagy, Eritrea has no constitution, has never held elections, and maintains what he described as “national service for eternity.” He also pointed to the large proportion of the population that has fled the country and the burden placed on those who remain. Nagy said Eritreans face an “unbearable burden” and criticized the country’s quality of life, citing the lack of internet access and other forms of isolation. He recalled visiting Eritrea and finding that people could not use credit cards and that the country was significantly behind in areas he considered essential to modern life. Referring to Isaias Afwerki, he said, “Isaias is now holding Eritrea back instead of taking it forward.” Nagy also criticized what he described as imprisonment without trial or charges and extensive human-rights abuses, calling the situation “a tragedy” and “an absolute tragedy.”

Addis Ababa, September 29, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed welcomed Somali President Sheikh Hassan Mohamud at Bole International Airport this morning. The two leaders are expected to discuss on bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest, ENA learned.

Addis Ababa, September 28, 2026 (ENA) —President Taye Atske Selassie held talks with Ambassador Olof Skoog, Deputy Secretary-General for Political Affairs of the European Union, and Annette Weber, EU Special Representative for the Horn of Africa, on a wide range of regional issues, with a focus on peace and security and economic development. The discussions addressed key regional developments and opportunities for strengthening cooperation in support of peace, stability and sustainable economic development in the Horn of Africa. The talks underscore the importance of continued Ethiopia-EU engagement on regional and economic priorities, as both sides seek to deepen cooperation on issues of mutual interest, the President posted on X.

Addis Ababa, September 28, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has appointed Chaltu Sani as the Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Housing Corporation, effective September 28, 2026. Prior to this appointment, Chaltu served as the Minister of Urban and Infrastructure from October 2021 until September 2026.

Addis Ababa, September 28, 2026 (ENA) —Egypt’s escalating media and political rhetoric over the Nile is partly aimed at diverting public attention from mounting economic and livelihood pressures, journalist and writer Zahid Zidan said. In an exclusive interview with POA, Zahid pointed to rising living costs and economic difficulties in Egypt, saying the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and Nile water issues have increasingly featured in the country’s political and media discourse. His comments come amid continued economic challenges identified by international financial institutions. In a September 21, 2026 assessment, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said Egypt had shown resilience to recent external shocks but that significant vulnerabilities remained, including high public debt and large financing needs. The IMF has also projected inflation to rise to about 16.7 percent in the second half of 2026, citing higher energy prices, exchange rate pressures and other factors “They want to manufacture anything, any kind of material, a dark weapon to distract the Egyptian public,” Zahid said, arguing that heightened rhetoric over the Nile is being used to shift attention from domestic challenges. He cited what he described as claims in some Egyptian media outlets concerning the potential effects of GERD, as well as allegations that Ethiopia intends to transfer water to Israel. According to Zahid, such narratives contribute to keeping the dam at the center of public debate. He stressed that his criticism was directed at Egyptian media platforms and political figures whom he accused of exploiting external disputes, rather than at the Egyptian people. He said ordinary Egyptians are primarily concerned with everyday challenges, including meeting basic needs, earning livelihoods and supporting their families. The remarks come amid renewed exchanges between Ethiopia and Egypt over Nile water development. Ethiopia has consistently maintained that it has a sovereign right to develop its natural resources, including the Abay River, while advocating cooperation and shared development among Nile Basin countries. In a September 22 statement responding to remarks by Egyptian Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam, Ethiopia’s Ministry of Water and Energy reaffirmed the country’s right to utilize its natural resources and said transboundary rivers should promote “cooperation, shared prosperity, and regional integration.” The completion of GERD has also strengthened calls within Ethiopia for further investment in hydropower and irrigation projects along the Abay River. Supporters of additional development argue that the experience gained from GERD can help expand renewable electricity generation, strengthen energy security, support agricultural development and increase cross-border power connectivity.

Addis Ababa, September 28, 2026 (ENA) — Negatively perceiving Ethiopia’s legitimate pursuit of dependable access to the sea is problematic and reflects malicious concerns against the country, Director General for African Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Zerihun Abebe, said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Ambassador Zerihun emphasized that Ethiopia’s peace, development, prosperity, resilience, and renaissance are a blessing to the Red Sea region, rather than a threat. Historically, Ethiopia has consistently contributed to efforts to counter terrorism and piracy, while working with neighboring countries to build their capacities and strengthen regional cooperation. "Our track record clearly shows we have been a force for peace, a force for development in the region," Ambassador Zerihun stated, highlighting Ethiopia's significant sacrifices in support of regional peace and stability, including in Sudan and Somalia. The director-general pointed out that Ethiopia has legitimate maritime, security, demographic, political, and economic interests that underpin its pursuit of reliable access to the sea. These interests are not exclusive to Ethiopia and can complement the interests of neighboring countries, contributing to broader regional stability. Ambassador Zerihun noted, "When we stand together in a region which is volatile, with various contending powers, it will help us come together and address our common challenges." The ambassador also noted the shared security challenges facing countries around the Red Sea and its basin, including piracy, terrorism, and other security threats. Such common challenges should encourage countries in the region to strengthen cooperation. "For us, we are together, and we are destined to live together, and we share common interests", Ambassador Zerihun emphasized. He added that perceiving Ethiopia's legitimate interest in a distorted manner is very problematic and clearly shows malicious interest against Ethiopia. The director-general elaborated that Ethiopia’s quest for dependable, secure, and reliable access to the sea is based on economic, political, and security considerations. "So, perceiving Ethiopia's legitimate interest in a different way is very problematic, and it clearly shows the malicious interest against Ethiopia. But for Ethiopia, its quest for access to the sea is legitimate; and it has economic foundations, political foundations, security foundations."

Addis Ababa, September 28, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia’s Council of Ministers has approved a series of legislative and regulatory measures aimed at reshaping federal institutions, strengthening data governance, modernizing the power sector, improving tax administration and reinforcing the legal framework governing the national defense forces. The Council first deliberated on a draft proclamation determining the powers and responsibilities of executive organs. Formulated pursuant to Article 56 of the FDRE Constitution following the 2026 national elections, the legislation establishes the institutional structure for federal executive entities to effectively execute their mandates during the upcoming term. Following extensive discussions, the Council incorporated key inputs and unanimously referred the draft to the House of Peoples’ Representatives. Addressing digital transformation priorities, the session evaluated the National Data Governance Draft Proclamation. Designed to secure data sovereignty, streamline government service delivery through system interoperability, expand artificial intelligence research, and drive data-led economic growth, the Council unanimously referred the enhanced bill to the parliamentary body. On development financing, the Council approved a draft proclamation ratifying a 145.8 million SDR loan agreement signed with the International Development Association. Allocating funds toward Phase One of the Power Sector Reform, Investment, and Modernization Project, the Council verified the agreement’s full alignment with the national debt policy before referring it to the House of People’s Representatives for final enactment. In tax governance, the Council passed amendments to the Federal Income Tax Regulation and the Federal Value Added Tax Regulation. The income tax revision aligns administrative procedures with Federal Income Tax Proclamation No. 979/2016 to enhance operational transparency. The value added tax adjustment addresses tax structures for former turnover tax collectors while exempting essential consumer items to safeguard household purchasing power and boost local industrial competitiveness. Following an extensive discussion on the draft regulations, the Council unanimously decided to implement it right after its publication in the Negarit Newspaper. Finally, the Council reviewed proposed amendments to Defense Forces Proclamation No. 1286/2023. Intended to strengthen the legal framework enabling the national armed forces to execute their constitutional mandates outlined under Article 87, the Council unanimously resolved to send the draft bill to the House of Peoples’ Representatives.