Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s continued investments in infrastructure, energy, industry, and productive activities demonstrate the country's commitment to economic transformation, Africa Governance Centre Executive Chair Benedicta Lasi said. Addressing the Second African Political Parties Summit on its second day, Lasi praised Ethiopia’s development efforts, congratulating Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, his government, and the Ethiopian people for their commitment to transforming the country. Ethiopia’s Medemer-led economic policies have gained traction over the last few years in driving sustainable transformation and bringing forward young leaders, she noted. Stresssing the role of political organizations, the Executive Chair stated that long-term development priorities such as industrialization, energy systems, and agricultural productivity require sustained commitment beyond electoral cycles. Lasi stressed that political parties must prepare capable leaders, develop sound policies, and strengthen institutional capacity before assuming government responsibilities. “An election can place a party in government overnight, but it cannot supply overnight knowledge required to run a ministry, negotiate a major contract, or manage the national economy,” she added. The Executive Chair emphasized that party schools, research institutions, and policy structures are essential to test proposals, develop sector-specific knowledge, and prepare people for public office. Political parties, she added, should help maintain development priorities across changes in government to ensure that national programmes continue over time. Lasi also emphasized the need for closer cooperation between the African Union and political parties to advance Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). She expressed hope that this cooperation would support the proposed African Political Parties Agenda 2040, which aims to establish standards for internal democracy, national development visions, and leadership development, while promoting women’s participation and young people’s contribution. Highlighting the Africa Governance Centre’s work, the Executive Chairperson said its African Political Parties Initiative (APPI), launched in 2025, provides a platform for political parties to exchange experiences and strengthen their capacity to govern. She noted that the initiative has expanded international cooperation through partnerships in Latin America and Asia, leading to the launch of the Intercontinental Dialogue among Political Parties in Seoul, South Korea, in September 2026. Lasi also highlighted the Centre’s collaboration with African legislative institutions to strengthen parliamentarians’ capacity to shape national development policies and support economic transformation.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Ethiopia is committed to supporting leadership development in African political parties by extending training opportunities at the African Leadership Excellence Academy to political parties across the continent. PM Abiy made the commitment while addressing the Second African Political Parties Summit in Addis Ababa, underscoring the importance of preparing a new generation of leaders capable of sustaining development and ensuring continuity in governance. "The …. proposal that I am bringing to attention today is developing new leaders. We have seen countries lose momentum when strong leaders fail to prepare successors. We must give younger members real responsibility and promote those who show judgment and integrity," he said. The Premier said Ethiopia would contribute to the African Leadership Excellence Academy and open its training programmes to political parties across Africa, making the country's leadership development experience available to political actors throughout the continent. Sharing Ethiopia's leadership philosophy, the Premier explained that the governing Prosperity Party is guided by Medemer, or synergy, which brings together different strengths around a common purpose and encourages members to take responsibility for the country as a whole. Citing economic outcomes from Ethiopia's leadership experience, he pointed to digital identification programme and the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam as examples of national development efforts that require sustained commitment and building on the achievements of previous generations. He also highlighted the Green Legacy Initiative, under which more than 56 billion seedlings have been planted since 2019, as an example of collective efforts to restore degraded land, protect water resources and strengthen resilience to climate-related challenges. PM Abiy emphasized that effective political leadership requires accountability and recognition of the contributions of others, including those with different political views, noting that "every citizen has an equal claim on the state, whichever party they support." PM Abiy also stressed that political parties should measure their convictions by the improvements they bring to people's lives, challenging leaders to ask themselves: "Do our people live better because of what we believe?" He illustrated this responsibility through the example of parents walking their children to school, saying their faith in the country's future depends on continued progress and better prospects for the next generation. "When progress does not reach their home, they lose faith not only in party, but in politics itself. That should concern every leader in this room," he noted. Ethiopia's commitment to extending the Academy's training to political parties across Africa reflects its contribution to developing capable future leaders and strengthening leadership capacity to sustain the continent's development.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed met African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf on the sidelines of the 2nd African Political Parties Summit, discussing continental governance, inclusive political processes, long-term development priorities and strengthening Africa’s leadership. In a post on his official X account, Abiy said the meeting provided an opportunity to exchange views on key issues shaping the continent’s future. “On the sidelines of the 2nd African Political Parties Summit, I held a meeting with H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, where we exchanged views on continental governance, inclusive political processes, long-term development priorities and strengthening Africa’s leadership,” the Prime Minister stated.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Political parties must go beyond seeking power and focus on serving citizens, strengthening democratic governance and building consensus on Africa’s development priorities, African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said today. Addressing the second African Political Parties Summit 2026 underway in Addis Ababa, the Chairperson highlighted the central role of political parties in advancing democratic governance, peace and development in line with the African Union Agenda 2063. Youssouf said political parties have three major responsibilities: developing social and economic policies that serve citizens, building bridges between citizens and state institutions, and raising awareness about the broader interests of their countries.   “Are they meant to conquer power? Or is the mission wider than that?” he asked, stressing that political parties should serve the public and promote national interests rather than narrow political, ethnic or sectarian interests. The Chairperson also underscored the role of opposition parties in monitoring government actions and ensuring public accountability. On constitutional governance, Youssouf said states have a fundamental responsibility to protect their constitutions, organize credible elections and ensure respect for fundamental freedoms. “In case of disagreements on those critical issues, dialogue must always prevail,” he noted. He further highlighted the importance of transparency in political party financing, saying strict rules are necessary to prevent corruption and external influences.   Referring to the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, the Chairperson said the instrument recognizes political pluralism and promotes the rights and responsibilities of ruling and opposition parties. He also described the Maputo Protocol as an important foundation for women’s participation in political life, emphasizing the need for forums bringing together women and young people to promote greater access to political participation and decision-making. Youssouf stressed that African citizens must be involved in decisions affecting their communities. Turning to Africa’s economic future, he described political parties as architects of the continent’s future, emphasizing the need for institutions capable of shaping that future around the general public interest rather than partisan considerations. He called for lasting consensus on key development priorities, including education, youth employment, infrastructure development and continental integration. Cooperation in these areas should be strengthened through open debate and citizens’ oversight of public affairs, he added. Youssouf acknowledged that some AU member states are facing challenges arising from unconstitutional changes of government, political instability and internal conflicts.   However, he reaffirmed the African Union’s determination to promote democratic governance, peace, development and greater inclusivity in the political space of its member states. The AU Commission Chairperson finally urged the summit to translate the commitments made in Accra into concrete measures, clearly define responsibilities and sustain follow-up.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia's Prosperity Party Vice President Adem Farah has underscored the importance of Medemer as a guiding philosophy for overcoming political fragmentation, mobilizing diverse national capabilities and advancing inclusive prosperity. Adem, who also serves as Coordinator for Democratic System Building with the rank of Deputy Prime Minister, made the remarks while addressing the opening of the Second African Political Parties Summit at the Adwa Victory Memorial in Addis Ababa. He emphasized that political parties must move beyond electoral competition to become drivers of national transformation by generating ideas, nurturing leadership, reconciling competing interests and sustaining development efforts beyond electoral cycles. Adem explained that Medemer, an indigenous philosophy developed by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, promotes the pooling of people's potential, institutional capabilities and accumulated achievements around shared national objectives. He said the philosophy provides a framework for overcoming historical divisions and political fragmentation. Moreover, Medemer is fostering collective responsibility and holistic prosperity across generations, he underscored. Highlighting the Prosperity Party's experience, Adem said its formation brought previously separate political organizations together under a common national institution, seeking to broaden political participation and unite diverse communities. He stressed that the party's priority is to translate its broad membership base into institutional strength through continuous capacity building, leadership development and disciplined internal governance. He further highlighted the party's performance evaluation system, which seeks to reward competence and integrity, identify institutional weaknesses and strengthen accountability among leaders and members. On political inclusiveness, Adem underscored the importance of sustained engagement with other political organizations through platforms such as the Ethiopian Political Parties Joint Council and broader dialogue initiatives on peace and democracy. He also noted that leaders from competing political parties have been entrusted with public responsibilities at different levels, describing the approach as an effort to harness diverse talents, broaden participation and strengthen shared national stewardship. Such cooperation, he stressed, should respect institutional mandates and the distinct identities of political parties while safeguarding meaningful political competition. Turning to Africa's broader development challenges, Adem said the continent's economic transformation depends on political parties' ability to mobilize investment, develop human capital, promote innovation, strengthen institutions and convert national potential into productive capabilities. He called for a political culture that balances competition with cooperation, and ambition with accountability, emphasizing that political parties must ultimately be judged by their contribution to improving citizens' lives. Drawing lessons from Ethiopia's historic victory at the Battle of Adwa in 1896, Adem said the country's ability to overcome colonial aggression through unity and collective purpose offers an enduring lesson for Africa. He urged African political leaders to draw inspiration from that legacy by strengthening continental solidarity, building institutions that uphold human dignity and expanding opportunities for citizens. The Second African Political Parties Summit is being held in Addis Ababa under the theme “Governing for Growth: Political Parties as Architects of Africa's Economic Future,” bringing together political leaders and stakeholders to explore the role of political parties in advancing economic transformation and inclusive development across the continent.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed called on African political parties to embrace leadership renewal and build consensus on long-term national priorities. He also stressed that the continent's development must transcend electoral cycles and changes of government. The Prime Minister made the call while opening the Second African Political Parties Summit in Addis Ababa, where he proposed two key commitments for inclusion in the Addis Ababa Declaration: establishing consensus on long-term national development priorities and strengthening leadership development and succession across Africa.   He emphasized that political parties should agree on strategic national goals with measurable milestones to ensure continuity of development efforts regardless of political transitions. PM Abiy elaborated that parties can maintain ideological and policy differences and compete for electoral support while working together on fundamental national interests and long-term development objectives. He also stressed that leadership succession is essential to sustaining development, warning that countries risk losing hard-won progress when incumbent leaders fail to prepare the next generation of leadership. Highlighting Ethiopia's experience in political inclusiveness, the Prime Minister said the country's reformed government has incorporated leaders from opposition political parties.   This reflects an approach that values broader participation and shared responsibility, the Premier revealed. He noted that Ethiopia's Medemer philosophy encourages political actors to recognize and build on one another's contributions despite their differences, particularly when national interests call for collective action. Turning to economic transformation, PM Abiy outlined key measures undertaken through Ethiopia's Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda, including opening the telecommunications, banking and competition sectors to foreign participation and introducing a market-based foreign exchange system. He also highlighted the Green Legacy Initiative, noting that more than 50 billion seedlings have been planted since its launch in 2019 through the collective participation of citizens, communities and institutions.   The initiative, he explained, is aimed at restoring degraded landscapes, protecting water resources and strengthening national resilience to climate-related challenges, including droughts and floods. The Prime Minister's proposals place leadership renewal, political consensus and policy continuity at the center of Africa's development agenda, underscoring the need for political parties to serve not only as vehicles for electoral competition but also as institutions that sustain national transformation. He called on African political parties to strengthen cooperation around shared national priorities and build a development vision that endures beyond political transitions.   The Second African Political Parties Summit is being held in Addis Ababa under the theme “Governing for Growth: Political Parties as Architects of Africa's Economic Future.”

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia and France have pledged to deepen their longstanding military and strategic cooperation, with renewed emphasis on military capacity building, knowledge transfer and regional peace and stability. The commitment was made during talks between Ethiopian Defense Minister Mohammed Idris and French Ambassador to Ethiopia Alexis Lamek in Addis Ababa on Wondsday. The meeting, part of the Defense Minister’s ongoing military diplomacy engagements with foreign ambassadors, focused on strengthening the two countries’ historical ties and expanding cooperation in military and strategic affairs. Minister Mohammed expressed appreciation for France’s support in enhancing Ethiopia’s military capabilities through knowledge transfer, strengthening institutional capacity and improving its preparedness for peacekeeping operations.   He also called on France to support Ethiopia’s efforts to safeguard its legitimate and equitable interests in the region. On the ongoing Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) process in the Tigray Region, the Minister urged France to extend the necessary support to ensure its successful implementation. Ambassador Lamek, for his part, reaffirmed France’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding relations and multifaceted cooperation with Ethiopia. He underscored his country’s readiness to enhance joint efforts in promoting regional peace and stability, while advancing military training and capacity-building cooperation.   The renewed commitment signals both countries’ interest in translating their longstanding diplomatic relations into stronger practical cooperation in defense, military development and regional security, as ENA learned.

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2026 (ENA)— The Second African Political Parties Summit (APPS 2026), which brought together more than 1,000 delegates from across Africa in Addis Ababa, entered its second day today. Ther discussions are focusing on positioning political parties as key drivers of economic transformation, inclusive development and sustainable growth. Convened at the Adwa Victory Memorial under the theme “Governing for Growth,” the summit brings together leaders of governing and opposition political parties, heads of state, government officials, scholars and civil society representatives to explore how political institutions can better respond to Africa’s development priorities.   Organized by Ethiopia’s Prosperity Party and coordinated by the Africa Governance Center, the continental gathering seeks to move political parties beyond electoral competition and strengthen their role in shaping long-term development policies, building effective institutions and advancing shared prosperity. A central focus of the summit is the need for stronger inter-party collaboration on national and continental priorities, particularly in addressing structural barriers to economic transformation, ensuring policy continuity beyond electoral cycles and strengthening institutional accountability. Delegates are also deliberating on practical approaches to employment creation, inclusive economic growth, climate-resilient development and the establishment of productive economic systems capable of withstanding global challenges. The summit further provides a platform for experience-sharing and structured dialogue among African political parties on democracy, peace, governance and economic transformation. It also promotes stronger engagement with the private sector, financial institutions, academia and regional institutions, as ENA learned.   At its core, APPS seeks to redefine the role of political parties in Africa—from primarily serving as vehicles for electoral mobilization to becoming architects of development policies, incubators of leadership and institutional drivers of national transformation. The gathering is also expected to produce the Addis Ababa Declaration, setting out a shared direction and collective commitments to advancing productive, inclusive and sustainable economic growth across the continent. Building on the previous Ghana Declaration of August 2025, the Addis Ababa summit aims to strengthen a lasting continental platform through which African political parties can develop collective responses to shared challenges and advance African solutions to African problems.

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)—African Political Parties Summit delegates have toured Addis Ababa’s major urban development projects, witnessing the Ethiopian capital’s ongoing transformation into a modern, inclusive and more accessible city. Speaking at a reception hosted in their honor, Head of the Democracy Building Center Coordinator Office with the rank of Deputy Prime Minister and Prosperity Party Vice President Adam Farah described Addis Ababa as the political capital and beating heart of Africa, emphasizing its significance as a shared home for all Africans.   “When you are in Addis Ababa, you are not visiting a foreign city; you are returning home, to the heart of Africa,” he said. Adem underscored that Africa’s strength lies in the bonds of fraternity, solidarity and closer cooperation among its peoples, stressing the importance of shared political visions and aspirations in advancing the continent’s development and self-reliance. He also invited the delegates to experience Ethiopia’s renowned hospitality and rich cultural heritage, expressing hope that the summit would produce meaningful and tangible outcomes toward building a prosperous and united Africa. Meanwhile, the delegates concluded a series of field visits across Addis Ababa, touring major streets, modern urban corridors, public spaces and development projects that are reshaping the capital’s urban landscape. During the visits, they gained insights into Ethiopia’s integrated urban corridor development approach, which combines improved infrastructure, pedestrian-friendly spaces, accessibility and modern urban planning to create more functional and livable urban environments. Through museum visits and presentations, participants also explored the different phases of Addis Ababa’s urban development and the vision underpinning its ongoing transformation.   The programme concluded with a cultural reception featuring traditional music, artistic performances and songs reflecting Ethiopia’s rich cultural diversity and heritage. Delegates expressed admiration for the performances and the authenticity of Ethiopian culture. The visits and cultural activities formed part of the accompanying programme of the Second African Political Parties Summit, hosted in Addis Ababa under the theme: ““Governing for Growth: Political Parties as Architects of Africa’s Economic Future.”

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopian Media Authority Board Chairman and National Intelligence Security Service Director-General Redwan Hussien urged the media today to balance freedom with responsibility and leverage the opportunities created by modern technology while mitigating its challenges. Speaking at the inauguration of Ethiopia’s first-ever Media Center of Excellence, the Chairman noted that while technological advancements have expanded the scope for democracy to flourish, they also present significant hurdles that require accountable oversight. "In all our endeavors to implement the right to freedom of expression — a crucial pillar for building a democratic system, freedom must be harmonized with responsibility," Redwan stressed. "In a democratic society, freedom and accountability are inseparable and mutually reinforcing; one cannot exist without the other." Highlighting the far-reaching societal impact of media institutions, the Chairman urged journalists and news organizations to adhere strictly to professional standards. He noted that media professionals have a moral and operational duty to verify facts, distinguish them from opinion or speculation, and present diverse perspectives fairly in order to support state continuity and foster a healthy society. Redwan also cautioned against sensationalism and deliberate misinformation, acknowledging that honest mistakes occur during reporting. In such cases, he emphasized, media outlets must promptly issue corrections with transparency and sincerity. The Chairman underscored that while individuals, journalists, and public figures retain the right to free expression, actions such as spreading disinformation, inciting violence, defaming individuals, and promoting hate speech carry strict legal and moral accountability in any vibrant democracy.

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)— Participants of the Second African Political Parties Summit have visited the headquarters of Ethiopia’s ruling Prosperity Party in Addis Ababa to learn about the party’s political philosophy, development initiatives and achievements. During the visit, the delegation toured the party’s permanent exhibition, where they received briefings on its history, the Medemer philosophy, major initiatives, key achievements and future vision. The participants also watched video presentations highlighting the Prosperity Party’s journey, major milestones and the development of its headquarters.   The delegation subsequently visited the MESOB Service Center, a government initiative designed to streamline public service delivery by bringing multiple government institutions together through an integrated platform. There, they received briefings on Ethiopia’s digital public services, technological advancements and ongoing efforts to modernize government service delivery. The participants expressed amazement at the level of digital development and technological progress, particularly the integration of multiple public services through a unified system. The visits were organized as part of the Second African Political Parties Summit, being held in Ethiopia under the theme: “Governing for Growth: Political Parties as Architects of Africa’s Economic Future.”   The three-day summit is taking place at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum in Addis Ababa, bringing together political party leaders, heads of state and policymakers from across the continent. The summit, which opened today, November 5, 2026, is deliberating on strategies for advancing employment creation, inclusive development and the structural transformation of African economies. Earlier today, the joint opening session of the Africa Women Political Leadership Forum and the African Youth in Politics Forum was also held as part of the summit.

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)— Foreign Affairs State Minister Hadera Abera and Director-General for European and American Affairs Meles Alem have briefed a delegation of the European Union Political and Security Committee (PSC) on current developments in Ethiopia and the wider Horn of Africa today. The PSC delegation was led by the Chair, Ambassador Lene Mandel Vensild, and included ambassadors representing the EU’s 27 member states. During the briefing, State Minister Hadera highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing reform efforts, national priorities, and commitment to promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development. He also outlined key political and security developments in the Horn of Africa, presenting evidence of continued violations of Ethiopia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity through incursions by Eritrean forces into Ethiopian territory. The State Minister further expressed concern over Eritrea’s support for and arming of extremist armed groups operating within Ethiopia, which contributes to insecurity and instability. Hadera also underscored Ethiopia’s strategic role in promoting peace and stability in the Horn of Africa and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to constructive regional engagement. He reiterated Ethiopia’s position that the conflict in Sudan should be resolved peacefully, in a manner that reflects the aspirations and interests of the Sudanese people. The discussions covered Ethiopia-EU relations, with emphasis on the importance of sustained dialogue, mutual understanding, and stronger cooperation with EU Member States. Both sides exchanged views on shared priorities, including regional peace and stability, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, sustainable economic development, and regional integration. For her part, the PSC chair Lene Mandel Vensild reaffirmed EU’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Ethiopia in advancing these objectives.

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s Medemer philosophy is promoting women’s participation in political leadership and national development by bringing their capabilities into decision-making and economic activities, Culture and Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa said. At a panel held as a side event of the African Political Parties Summit in Addis Ababa today, the Minister noted that Medemer emphasizes collective participation, cooperation and the contribution of all citizens toward shared national development goals. “The strength of our society is determined not by the contribution of a few, but also the contribution of the whole,” she said, stressing the importance of collective participation in national transformation. According to her, women’s empowerment goes beyond gender equality, encompassing justice, national productivity and democratic governance, while ensuring equal voice in decisions that shape society. The Minister explained that Medemer, articulated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, is founded on synergy, cooperation and collective progress, bringing together the potential of all citizens to achieve shared national objectives. Empowering women does not mean taking opportunities away from men, but rather combining the capabilities and contributions of both to advance national development, Selamawit added. However, she noted that women’s contributions have not always been reflected in their participation in decision-making although women have made significant contributions to building families, strengthening communities, preserving cultural identities and maintaining heritage. The Minister stressed that women’s empowerment must go beyond political representation to ensure their ability to influence decisions, shape policies, control resources, participate in economic activities and determine their own futures. Highlighting Ethiopia’s experience after the reform, she said women have secured significant representation in parliament, the federal cabinet and government leadership structures, from local administrations to the federal level. The growing women’s participation in the Prosperity Party also demonstrates their readiness to engage in political leadership and decision-making when given opportunities. The increasing representation must nevertheless lead to meaningful influence in decisions concerning national security, infrastructure, education, social development, technology and digital transformation, according to Selamawit. The Minister finally called for women’s empowerment to be connected more closely with economic transformation, saying women should be recognized as productive economic actors, investors, entrepreneurs, innovators and owners of capital rather than being viewed primarily as beneficiaries of social protection. She further identified education and access to technology as essential foundations for developing future women leaders, alongside opportunities for meaningful political participation. Concluding her remarks, the Minister stressed that women’s participation in political power should not be postponed until development is achieved, but must be an integral part of the development process to realize Africa’s ambitions for future generations. The African Women Political Leadership Forum 2026 was a side event of the ongoing African Political Parties Summit 2026 in Addis Ababa.

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)—The Prosperity Party (PP) has reaffirmed its commitment to building a better Ethiopia for succeeding generations, describing intergenerational responsibility as essential component of its long-term national development vision. The African Youth in Politics Forum is underway in Addis Ababa as a side event of the Second African Political Parties Summit (APPS 2026) that opened today. Addressing a panel held under the theme "Leveraging the Youth Dividend: Driving Africa's Economic and Political Transformation", PP International Relations Director-General Nebiyou Sehul said intergenerational responsibility constitutes a central pillar of the party's grand strategic agenda. He explained that this agenda seeks to ensure that the country's development achievements and national resources are sustained and strengthened for the benefit of future generations. The Director-General identified Medemer as the philosophical foundation underpinning the party's intergenerational vision and provides a framework for integration, accumulation and collective contributions across generations. Nebiyou further described national inheritance as both a legacy received from previous generations and a responsibility entrusted to the present generation to safeguard and pass on to those that follow. The International Relations Director-General highlighted the significance of the book “The Medemer Generation”, authored by Prosperity Party President and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, in advancing the party's vision for future generations. He noted that the book articulates three major aspirations: creating a better future for the next generation, shaping a generation grounded in Medemer values, and preparing young people to inherit a better Ethiopia. Stressing the party's confidence in realizing these aspirations, the Director-General said Ethiopia's future generations would inherit a better country. Nebiyou also stressed the importance of young people taking responsibility for protecting and advancing the country's achievements, noting that intergenerational inheritance must be both safeguarded and earned through collective effort.

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s Minister of Women and Social Affairs, Shawit Shanka, called on African countries to ensure women’s equal participation in political leadership and economic decision-making, saying the continent cannot realize its full development potential while marginalizing half of its population. The Minister made the remarks while addressing the joint opening session of the 2nd African Political Parties Summit 2026, which opened alongside the Africa Women Political Leadership Forum 2026 and the African Youth in Politics Forum 2026 in Addis Ababa.   “No continent can realize its potential when marginalizing half of its population,” she said. Shawit emphasized that women should be recognized not merely as beneficiaries of assistance but as producers, innovators, leaders and agents of peace and development. She noted that investing in women contributes to economic transformation, democratic governance, social cohesion and sustainable development. The Minister said Africa was undergoing major changes driven by geopolitical shifts, technological advancements, demographic trends, climate pressures and evolving economic relationships. She called on African countries to proactively shape these changes through visionary leadership, resilient institutions and collective action. She explained that Ethiopia’s development approach is guided by the principle of Medemer, which emphasizes synergy, togetherness and collective contribution. The minister added that women are equal stakeholders, productive agents and co-architects of the country's transformation.   “Women are producers, innovators, leaders and agents of peace and development, not merely beneficiaries of assistance,” she emphasized. Shawit said advancing women's leadership requires visionary leadership, sustained political commitment and strong institutional action, particularly within political parties. Political parties, she added, should strengthen women's participation in their structures, leadership positions and candidate selection processes to ensure their meaningful representation in decision-making. She also highlighted the commitment of Ethiopia’s Prosperity Party-led government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, to women’s empowerment, saying the Medemer philosophy demonstrates that women can lead at every level. Ethiopia, she noted, is sharing its experience not as a claim of perfection, but as evidence of what can be achieved through political will, an inclusive development philosophy and sustained action.   The Minister stressed that decisions made today would shape the future of generations, urging African countries to build a continent where women are equally represented in political leadership, economically empowered and protected by strong institutions. She further called for an Africa where every girl can aspire to become a leader, entrepreneur, scientist or policymaker without barriers imposed by gender or circumstances. Shawit officially opened the joint forum, calling for stronger collective efforts to advance women's political leadership across the continent.

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia has placed youth empowerment and participation at the center of its governance and development agenda, with young people holding more than 50 percent of leadership positions at the federal level, Minister of Youth and Sports Aklilu Tadesse said. Ethiopia has placed youth empowerment and participation at the center of its governance and development agenda, with young people holding more than 50 percent of leadership positions at the federal level, Minister of Youth and Sports Aklilu Tadesse said. The minister made the remark while addressing the African Youth in Politics Forum (AYPF) and the Africa Women Political Leadership Summit (AWPLS), flagship platforms of the Second African Political Parties Summit (APPS 2026) currently being held in Addis Ababa from November 5–7.   He said Ethiopia recognizes young people as its most valuable national asset and has prioritized their empowerment through investments in employment, entrepreneurship, innovation and leadership development. The minister further elaborated that youth participation in Ethiopia has expanded beyond conventional development initiatives, with young people increasingly assuming leadership responsibilities across government institutions. He noted that more than half of leadership positions at the federal level are occupied by young people, citing the country's experience as an indication of the importance of entrusting youth with decision-making responsibilities. ‘…youth are not waiting to lead tomorrow. They are leading today, from local administration to the highest office of government in the federal level, including more than 50 percent of the leadership positions are held by the young people, including our prime minister, who was only in the early of 40’s when, while he took the office..’’ he said.   Aklilu emphasized that youth empowerment requires more than policies and development programs. He also stressed the need for building trust and ensuring meaningful participation in governance and policy-making. "As a first-hand witness to this transformation, I can confidently say that Ethiopia's message is clear. When young people are given a seat at the table, they become architects of progress, not merely beneficiary of it," he added. He called on African political parties to move beyond considering young people merely as voters, supporters and campaign participants, urging them to recognize youth as partners in democratic leadership and governance. The minister further highlighted that Africa's demographic structure makes youth participation indispensable to the continent's development, noting that more than 60 percent of its population is under the age of 25. He said the continent's prosperity, stability and democratic progress would largely depend on how effectively governments and political institutions engage and empower this growing population.   Describing young people as innovators, entrepreneurs, peacebuilders and agents of transformation, Aklilu said their creativity, energy and resilience constitute significant resources for addressing Africa's development challenges. He also highlighted the philosophy of Medemer, which emphasizes unity, collective purpose and the mobilization of shared strengths, as an important principle for strengthening inclusive governance and youth participation. The minister called on African political leaders to establish political systems that listen to young people's voices, create opportunities for emerging talent and entrust young leaders with meaningful responsibilities.   He stressed that challenges facing the continent, including unemployment, conflict, climate change and technological transformation, cannot be effectively addressed without the active engagement of young people. "The future does not belong to youth alone; it is being built by youth today," he said, calling for greater trust, empowerment and collaboration with the younger generation. The African Youth in Politics Forum and the Africa Women Political Leadership Summit are being held as flagship platforms within the Second African Political Parties Summit (APPS 2026), under the broader theme, "Governing for Growth: Political Parties as Architects of African Economic Future." The summit serves as a vital platform for inter-party dialogue, aiming to shift the focus of African political parties from mere electoral mobilization to becoming robust engines of national transformation.

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)— Representatives of the United Nations and ambassadors from various countries based in Ethiopia have visited a rehabilitation and reintegration center for former combatants in Tigray region. Located in Mekelle, the center previously served as a rehabilitation training facility in the region and is currently providing accommodation and training for former combatants.   Currently, some 5,500 former combatants are receiving training at the center as part of efforts to facilitate their successful reintegration into society and transition to civilian life. The rehabilitation program aims to contribute to sustainable national peace while equipping former combatants with the skills and support needed to rebuild their lives and resume productive roles in their communities.   Officials of the National Rehabilitation Commission, including Commissioner Temesgen Tilahun, briefed the diplomats and representatives of international organizations during the visit.

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)— Political party leaders, Heads of State, and policymakers from across the continent have gathered in Addis Ababa today, November 5, 2026, for the Second African Political Parties Summit (APPS) to deliberate on strategies for steering employment creation, inclusive development, and the structural transformation of African economies. The three-day summit, running through November 7, serves as a vital platform for inter-party dialogue, aiming to shift the focus of African political parties from mere electoral mobilization to becoming robust engines of national transformation. The central question driving the summit is: How can political parties evolve into credible drivers of shared prosperity and economic resilience? Participants will examine the structural barriers to economic transformation and the political dynamics that sustain them. A key goal is to identify reforms that ensure policy continuity, moving beyond short-term electoral cycles toward enduring national development. As the host, Ethiopia’s Prosperity Party—one of Africa’s largest political organizations—is sharing its experience. Guided by the MEDEMER (synergy) philosophy, the party highlights its success in home-grown economic reforms and large-scale infrastructure projects. The summit also emphasizes cross-border integration. Leaders are discussing how strong parties can champion regional economic zones, energy cooperation, and trade connectivity to boost collective growth. By fostering engagement between political leadership, the private sector, and academia, the summit aims to unlock Africa’s potential in digital transformation, mining, and tourism. The event will culminate in the "Addis Ababa Declaration." This document will serve as a collective roadmap, committing parties to a future of sustainable and productive governance. Ultimately, the APPS 2026 seeks to empower political institutions to turn national potential into reality. By prioritizing accountability and productivity, the summit sets a new standard for governing for growth across the continent.

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2026 (ENA)— The Second African Political Parties Summit (APPS) kicked off this morning in Addis Ababa. The summit is bringing together political leaders and representatives from across the continent to explore how political parties can become key drivers of Africa’s economic transformation and shared prosperity. Organized by Ethiopia’s ruling Prosperity Party in collaboration with the African Governance Center, the three-day summit is being held at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum under the theme, “Governing for Growth: Political Parties as Architects of Africa’s Economic Future.”   The summit provides a structured platform for inter-party dialogue, experience-sharing and collective action, focusing on the role of political parties in advancing governance, economic growth, peace and sustainable development. Initiated by the African Governance Center, based in Accra, Ghana, the platform seeks to strengthen cooperation among African political parties and promote homegrown solutions to the continent’s development challenges. At its core, the summit seeks to redefine the role of political parties beyond electoral competition and political mobilization, positioning them instead as strategic institutions capable of shaping economic policies, nurturing leadership, strengthening democratic institutions and driving national transformation. Deliberations are expected to address how political parties can translate their political mandates into practical development outcomes, particularly in employment creation, inclusive economic growth, climate resilience and sustainable development.   The summit underscores the importance of well-structured and effective political parties as key actors in building productive economies, strengthening institutions and advancing Africa’s long-term development aspirations. A key outcome of the annual gathering is the adoption of summit declarations, which provide a shared framework and collective commitments to guide political parties in their respective countries. Previous milestones include the Ghana Declaration of August 2025, while the Addis Ababa Declaration is expected to chart a common direction for African political parties in 2026.   Through this continental platform, African political parties are seeking to move beyond conventional electoral politics and assume a more transformative role in shaping the continent’s economic future, fostering inclusive prosperity and advancing African-led development solutions.

Addis Ababa, November 4, 2026 (ENA)— Senior officials from the African Union and European Union Commission and Member States convened today at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for the AU-EU Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM). The gathering provides a key platform for dialogue on shared partnership priorities and strengthens coordination on matters of common interest. It advances the outcomes of the 7th AU-EU Summit held in Luanda in November 2025 under the theme of promoting peace and prosperity through effective multilateralism. In line with the Luanda commitments, the meeting will focus on thematic topics of multilateralism and prosperity. Senior officials will adopt an implementation plan with concrete deliverables in expanding partnership in the fields of peace and security, strengthening multilateralism, trade and economic development, climate action, food security, digital and AI development and governance. The plan enables the delivery of the Joint Vision for 2030 and related frameworks, including Agenda 2063 and the Global Gateway. The meeting followed series of engagements and negotiations on steps to realize the Luanda Summit outcomes into concrete, results-oriented actions that deliver tangible benefits for the mutual benefit of peoples of Africa and Europe. Ethiopia delivered the common position of the AU side on digital and AI governance and development in the capacity of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed as AU Champion for AI and digital health. In the Statement, Ambassador Lemlem Fiseha outlined the Champion’s priorities including bringing AI and digitalisation into the policy priorities of AU Member States, realising universal digital literacy, enhancing investment in cyber infrastructure, fostering conducive ecosystem for digital start-ups, and promoting inclusivity on African languages, building capability to manage the negative impacts of AI. Represented by Ambassador Meles Alem, Director General for European and American Affairs, Ethiopia highlighted potential areas to expand AU-EU partnership in the field of trade, energy development and the manufacturing sector. He called on the EU to address challenges in the implementation of the EU’s Everything but Arms preferential trade initiative, including by lifting the Deforestation Free Regulation and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, which is causing serious impact on African producers of cocoa, coffee, and related strategic commodities. In the energy sector Ambassador Meles invited the EU to make concrete investment on projects contained in AU-PIDA.