Addis Ababa, October 26, 2026 (ENA)— The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its partnership with Ethiopia, commending the humanitarian efforts of the Ethiopian Red Cross Society (ERCS). During discussions with President Taye Atske Selassie, ICRC Regional Director for Africa Mamadou Sow praised the ERCS for its humanitarian work across the country and emphasized the importance of international humanitarian law and strong leadership in ensuring that essential assistance reaches people in need. President Taye and Mamadou Sow discussed the validity and the importance of international humanitarian law. Sow also commended President Taye for promoting cooperation among key Ethiopian government institutions, including the Ministries of Health, Justice and Defense.   He expressed appreciation for the access and acceptance granted to the ICRC in Ethiopia, which enable the organization to carry out its humanitarian operations. Highlighting the importance of collaboration with the ERCS, Sow described the organization as a key partner in implementing programs focused on water, health and food security across Ethiopia. "The Ethiopian Red Cross is a marvelous organization," Sow said. "It's our privileged partner in this country, with whom we work across Ethiopia on water, health, and food security." He also praised the ERCS's extensive volunteer network, describing volunteers as the backbone of the organization and the wider International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.   "We are very proud of that partnership because it relies on so many volunteers who are the beating heart of our global movement," Sow added. "We take great pride in their work, as well as the strong support Ethiopia provides to its Red Cross society."

By Staff Writer October 25, 2026 (ENA) Ethiopia’s key developments this week highlighted an interconnected national agenda: strengthening African leadership, accelerating economic transformation, building institutional capacity and safeguarding strategic interests amid a rapidly changing regional and global order. From the 12th Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa to the inauguration of the Megech Dam, the country’s engagements reflected a broader effort to connect continental cooperation with tangible development outcomes at home. Economic reforms, agricultural modernization, technological capacity-building and the National Dialogue further underscored the importance of building a resilient state capable of translating national ambitions into lasting results. At the same time, discussions surrounding Red Sea access, Abay River including the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and regional security highlighted the complex geopolitical environment in which Ethiopia is pursuing its development priorities. Tana Forum Puts African Leadership and Economic Sovereignty in Focus The 12th Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa brought African leaders, policymakers and experts to Bahir Dar to examine pathways to peace amid economic uncertainty, geopolitical competition and shifting global power dynamics. Addressing the forum, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized the need for African-led solutions, stronger collective action and economic sovereignty, stressing the importance of enabling the continent to shape its own future rather than remain on the margins of global decision-making. The African Union echoed the call for greater cooperation and strategic independence, underscoring the importance of collective capacity in navigating an increasingly complex international environment. Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama described the Tana Forum as an authentic African platform for candid reflection and strategic foresight. The gathering provided an opportunity to assess the continent’s security challenges and explore solutions grounded in African realities, priorities and experiences. Prime Minister Abiy’s engagements with Kenya’s Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo further reinforced the diplomatic dimension of the gathering. His joint visit with President Mahama to Fasilides Castle in Gondar also brought Ethiopia’s historical heritage into the wider program of high-level engagements. Beyond the discussions themselves, the forum raised a fundamental question: how can Africa translate its abundant resources, demographic potential and collective influence into greater economic independence and geopolitical agency? For Ethiopia, the gathering offered an opportunity to contribute to this continental debate while strengthening engagement with African partners. Megech Dam Links Infrastructure with Food and Water Security While the Tana Forum focused on Africa’s strategic future, the inauguration of the Megech Dam in Gondar demonstrated how Ethiopia is pursuing development through investment in critical infrastructure. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed officially inaugurated the project, which has a storage capacity of 185 million cubic meters and is expected to support irrigation across more than 17,000 hectares of farmland. The dam will also provide drinking water to Gondar and surrounding towns. Its anticipated benefits extend beyond water storage. By supporting irrigation, the project is expected to strengthen agricultural productivity, improve food security and reduce farmers’ dependence on seasonal rainfall. It also offers opportunities for employment, fisheries, tourism and urban agriculture. The project illustrates the relationship between infrastructure investment and broader economic transformation. Reliable water supplies can support agricultural production, expand economic activity and improve livelihoods, particularly when complemented by effective management and access to markets. Prime Minister Abiy highlighted the overcoming of longstanding implementation challenges through the Medemer philosophy and emphasized the importance of further development in Gondar. President Mahama, who attended the inauguration, said the project had inspired renewed efforts to advance Ghana’s long-delayed Pwalugu Irrigation Project. His remarks underscored the potential for African countries to learn from one another’s development experiences and adapt successful approaches to their own circumstances. The Megech Dam thus represents more than an engineering achievement. It reflects the broader challenge of converting natural resources into productive assets that support food security, employment and sustainable economic growth. Indigenous Capacity at the Heart of Economic Transformation Ethiopia’s development agenda also places growing emphasis on indigenous capacity—the ability to design, implement, operate and sustain projects through domestic expertise and institutions. Infrastructure alone cannot guarantee lasting transformation. Its long-term value depends on the availability of skilled professionals, effective institutions, appropriate technologies and productive industries capable of supporting and expanding the investments made. Economic developments during the week reflected this wider ambition. Ethiopia and the United States Treasury reaffirmed their partnership in advancing economic reforms and bilateral engagement, while investment outreach to businesses from the United Arab Emirates highlighted opportunities for longer-term commercial partnerships. Meanwhile, Airbus projected that passenger traffic in Ethiopia could grow sixfold over the next 20 years, pointing to substantial potential for aviation and related services. Realizing that growth will require sustained investment in infrastructure, workforce development and operational capacity. Agriculture also remained central to the country’s development priorities, with continued efforts to strengthen productivity and build a more sustainable agricultural sector. These priorities are mutually reinforcing. Economic reforms can help create conditions for investment, infrastructure can expand productive capacity, and technology and skills can improve efficiency and competitiveness. Ultimately, the impact of these initiatives will be measured by their contribution to employment, domestic industries, household incomes and improved living standards. Strengthening indigenous capacity is therefore essential to ensuring that Ethiopia’s development ambitions are not only achieved but sustained over the long term. Red Sea Access and Regional Geopolitics Remain Strategic Priorities Ethiopia’s development ambitions are closely connected to its geopolitical environment, particularly the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea corridor. Discussions during the week highlighted the strategic importance of maritime access, regional stability and the competition among external powers around one of the world’s significant commercial and security corridors. Ambassador Zerihun Abebe emphasized Ethiopia’s geographic position and historical connections to the Red Sea, framing maritime access as an important issue for the country’s long-term strategic and economic interests. As a landlocked country reliant on maritime routes for international trade, Ethiopia has a direct interest in secure, reliable and economically viable access to global markets. Developments around the Red Sea therefore have implications not only for national security but also for trade, logistics and economic competitiveness. Advisor to the Prime Minister on East African Affairs, Getachew Reda, also underscored Ethiopia’s pivotal geopolitical position. Meanwhile, Professor Al Mariam expressed concern over Eritrea’s policies and their implications for regional stability, while criticizing the Cairo–Asmara relationship. These assessments reflect the perspectives of the respective commentators amid continuing regional tensions. The GERD and Ethiopia’s relations with Egypt also remained part of the wider debate. Egyptian analyst Magdi Khalil argued that attempts to obstruct the dam had been a mistake and advocated strategic relations between the two countries. His position highlights the potential benefits of moving beyond confrontation toward constructive engagement. The GERD is central to Ethiopia’s electricity-generation ambitions, while Nile water security remains a major concern for Egypt. Sustained dialogue, cooperation and mutually beneficial arrangements are important to addressing these concerns and reducing tensions. The broader challenge for the region is to reconcile legitimate national interests with the shared need for peace, secure trade routes and economic cooperation. Pursuing strategic priorities through diplomacy and practical engagement offers a more sustainable basis for regional stability than prolonged confrontation. National Dialogue Seeks a Foundation for Lasting Consensus Alongside development and diplomacy, Ethiopia’s National Dialogue continued to focus on addressing longstanding political, social and governance questions through an inclusive process. Organized around eight pillars, the initiative seeks to create space for dialogue on issues affecting the country’s political arrangements, institutions, social relations and future direction. Its significance lies in the possibility of building a broader foundation for consensus in a country whose stability and development depend, in part, on the ability to manage differences constructively. Moving from deliberation toward consensus is an important step, but the process’s long-term value will depend on the inclusiveness of participation, the credibility of its outcomes and the extent to which areas of agreement can be translated into meaningful action. The week’s discussions among African Supreme Audit Institutions also highlighted the importance of institutional accountability and cooperation. Effective oversight of public resources is critical to ensuring that development commitments deliver tangible benefits and that public institutions maintain public trust. Together, these efforts point to a central requirement for sustainable national progress: institutions must not only deliver services and development but also promote accountability, confidence and constructive engagement. Human Capital and Technology Shape Future Competitiveness Ethiopia’s longer-term development ambitions increasingly depend on its ability to equip its population for a technology-driven global economy. Discussions during the week highlighted artificial intelligence, digital skills and private-sector investment in human-capital development, reflecting the growing importance of technological competence across industries. As digital technologies reshape production, services and employment, investment in skills is becoming an essential component of national competitiveness. However, the benefits of technological advancement depend on more than access to digital tools. Quality education, practical training, research, effective institutions and private-sector participation are equally important. These priorities complement Ethiopia’s infrastructure and economic reform agenda. Roads, dams, transport networks and digital systems create opportunities, but skilled people and capable institutions are needed to operate them efficiently and convert investment into productivity. Building human capital is therefore not a separate development objective; it is a foundation for sustaining economic growth, expanding employment and strengthening Ethiopia’s capacity to compete in an increasingly technology-driven world. Connecting National Transformation with African Ambitions Taken together, this week’s developments reveal a common thread linking Ethiopia’s domestic priorities with its regional and continental engagement. The Tana Forum placed African-led solutions and economic sovereignty at the center of discussions on peace and security. The Megech Dam demonstrated how investment in water infrastructure can advance agriculture and food security. Economic reforms, aviation growth and technological skills highlighted the importance of expanding productive capacity, while the National Dialogue and accountability initiatives underscored the role of institutions in building lasting stability. At the same time, debates over Red Sea access, the GERD and regional security demonstrated that Ethiopia’s development trajectory is inseparable from the geopolitical environment surrounding it. The central challenge is to turn ambition into measurable outcomes: stronger institutions, productive investment, skilled human capital, improved livelihoods and constructive regional partnerships. Ethiopia’s ability to advance these priorities will depend on how effectively it mobilizes domestic capacity, attracts sustainable investment, manages national differences and engages with its neighbors. Ultimately, national development and African leadership are interconnected pursuits. A more productive and institutionally resilient Ethiopia can contribute more effectively to continental cooperation, while a more peaceful, integrated and economically confident Africa can create greater opportunities for Ethiopia’s own transformation.

Addis Ababa, October 25, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia is commemorating the 119th Defense Forces Day under the theme: “Army of Victory” at the Armed Forces General Headquarters, honoring the history, traditions, and sacrifices of the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF). The ceremony was attended by Chief of General Staff Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, Minister of Defense Mohammed Idris, and other senior government officials. Federal Police leaders and members, military attachés, diplomats representing various countries, and invited guests from different segments of society also participated in the celebration, underscoring the national significance of the occasion.   Defense Forces Day is observed annually to commemorate the establishment of Ethiopia’s modern defense forces, traced to Tikimt 15, 1900, in the Ethiopian calendar, when the country appointed its first Minister of War, marking an important milestone in the development of an organized national military institution. The occasion pays tribute to military personnel who sacrificed their lives to safeguard Ethiopia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. It also recognizes the contributions of generations of servicemen and women who have served the country. The annual commemoration aims to preserve the ENDF’s history, heroism, and institutional traditions while passing its legacy of service and sacrifice to future generations.   Under the theme “Army of Victory,” this year’s observance highlights the enduring role of the defense forces in protecting national sovereignty and honoring the achievements and sacrifices of those who have served the country.

Addis Ababa, October 23, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama visited Fasil Castle and the Gondar Mesob One-Stop Service Center today during their project inauguration engagements in Gondar, Amhara Regional State.   The visits followed the inauguration of the Megech Dam Project by PM Abiy, which is anticipated to expand irrigation-based agriculture, strengthen food security, and improve access to drinking water in Gondar and surrounding areas. Accompanied by First Lady Zinash Tayachew and other senior officials, the two leaders visited the historic castle and the service center, which reflects Ethiopia’s efforts to improve public service delivery.   Fasil Castle, part of the Fasil Ghebbi complex, reflects Gondar’s historic role as Ethiopia’s imperial capital. UNESCO inscribed the complex on its World Heritage List in 1979 in recognition of its historical and architectural significance. Similarly, they also visited the Gondar Mesob One-Stop Service Center.   The Gondar Mesob One-Stop Service Center integrates services from multiple government institutions on a single platform, aiming to improve public access to government services and streamline service delivery.

Addis Ababa, October 21, 2026 (ENA) — The Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia (IRCE) and its member religious institutions have reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace, religious freedom, social harmony and national unity across the country. Representatives of four of the council’s five-member religious institutions made the commitment during a joint media briefing, outlining their respective religious teachings and institutional positions on five key areas aimed at strengthening peaceful coexistence and social development. The five thematic areas include respecting and protecting human dignity; safeguarding places of worship and religious freedom; preventing disinformation and hate speech on digital media; enhancing the participation of women and youth in peacebuilding; and integrating indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms with religious teachings. Mistir Feresebhat Dubale, Vice Chairman of the Council of Scholars of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church (EOTC), said respecting human beings amounts to respecting the God who created them, noting that religious teachings call on people to respect one another. He stressed the importance of using digital media for constructive purposes and called for greater participation of women and youth in peacebuilding. He also underscored the need to strengthen indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms to promote sustainable peace. Sheikh Mohammed-Zein Zeharadin, Secretary of the Ulama Council of the Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council (EIASC), described digital media as a product of modern times that should be used for positive purposes. He said appropriate regulatory measures are necessary to address the spread of hate speech through social media, while emphasizing the importance of strengthening women’s and youth’s participation in peacebuilding and promoting effective indigenous reconciliation mechanisms. Ashebir Ketema, Director of Foreign Relations at the Ethiopian Council of Gospel Believers’ Churches, also stressed that digital technology should be used to promote peace, togetherness and national unity. He highlighted the need to educate the younger generation on responsible social media use and create an enabling environment for women and youth to participate actively in peacebuilding efforts. He further emphasized the importance of giving due attention to indigenous conflict resolution practices. Angaw Getahun, Assistant President and Department Director of the Seventh-day Adventist Church of Ethiopia, said information shared through social media should contribute to peace, social cohesion and national unity. He underscored the significant role of religious leaders in encouraging the participation of women and youth in peacebuilding. He also noted that indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms help heal wounds and restore broken relationships, calling for their continued use and strengthening. The representatives’ remarks underscored the role of religious institutions in fostering mutual respect, countering divisive narratives and strengthening traditional approaches to reconciliation as part of broader efforts to sustain peace and unity in Ethiopia.

Addis Ababa, October 20, 2026 (ENA) — A workshop aimed at strengthening collaboration and improving the effectiveness and sustainability of public-sector auditing across Africa is underway in Addis Ababa. Opening the three-day capacity development workshop today, Ethiopia's Auditor General Meseret Damtie said strengthening African Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) is essential in order to promote accountable governance, sound public financial management and sustainable development across the continent. She emphasized that improved audit quality, institutional capacity and collaboration are essential to enable audit institutions fulfil their mandates effectively. “At the heart of ARISE (African Regional Initiative for Strengthening Effectiveness) is the spirit of peer support and collaboration,” the Auditor General said, highlighting the importance of cooperation among participating institutions, programme coordinators, peer SAIs and development partners in achieving sustainable results.   She said the workshop provides an opportunity to clarify roles and responsibilities, strengthen project-management and facilitation skills, and exchange experiences from the programme’s early implementation. Meseret linked the principles of cooperation and collective responsibility underpinning ARISE to Ethiopia’s Medemer philosophy, which emphasizes synergy, shared contributions and common goals. She highlighted the importance of collaboration in strengthening institutions and advancing sustainable development, reflecting the program’s emphasis on partnerships and collective efforts to improve public-sector accountability across Africa. INTOSAI Development Initiative (IDI) representative, Muhammed Dabo, stressed that sustainable improvements in Supreme Audit Institutions require more than technical training, emphasizing strong institutional systems, effective leadership, capable personnel and the ability to manage change. “Each partner has a distinct role, but we share one objective: stronger, more effective and sustainable Supreme Audit Institutions,” he said, underscoring the complementary roles of beneficiary SAIs, peer institutions, regional organizations and development partners.   Dabo encouraged the participants to share experiences openly, identify challenges early, adapt when necessary and develop practical solutions for their respective institutions. He stressed that the workshop’s success should be measured by the lessons applied and improvements achieved after participants return to their work. The ARISE programme is implemented by IDI with support from the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad) for the 2025-2028 period. It provides long-term, SAI-led bilateral support to Supreme Audit Institutions operating in challenging environments across Africa, focusing on improving audit quality, institutional governance, strategic planning and stakeholder engagement.

Addis Ababa, October 20, 2026 (ENA) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has paid tribute to Kenya’s freedom fighters and national heroes during the Mashujaa Day celebrations in Eldoret, Kenya. The Premier highlighted the shared legacy of courage, unity, and sacrifice between the two countries. In a social media post, the Prime Minister said: “I delivered remarks paying tribute to the heroes who fought for freedom and those who made the ultimate sacrifices to safeguard their nation. I honour their courage and legacy!”   PM Abiy noted that Kenya’s history of courage and sacrifice resonates deeply with Ethiopia’s own story of Adwa, where Ethiopians from every corner of the country united to defend their homeland. These shared histories remind us that freedom was never given but won through courage, unity, and sacrifice, the Prime Minister added. “As our histories are intertwined, so too must our futures be. Through the spirit of Medemer, Ethiopia and Kenya must continue building on our existing cooperation in clean energy, connectivity, telecommunications, and trade to create greater opportunities and shared prosperity for our people,” he said.   The two countries also cooperate in regional security, cross-border infrastructure, trade, telecommunications, and electricity interconnections, supporting economic integration and development across the Horn of Africa, it was learned.

Addis Ababa, October 16, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia has been elected to chair the 78th session of the Executive Committee of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), recognizing its longstanding role in refugee protection and international cooperation as it hosts more than 1.2 million refugees and asylum seekers. Addressing member states following the election, Ethiopia’s Permanent Representative to the UN Office at Geneva and other international organizations in Switzerland, Ambassador Tsegab Kebebew Daka, expressed gratitude to the African Group for its confidence and to other countries that supported Ethiopia’s nomination. Ambassador Tsegab highlighted Ethiopia’s historic tradition of providing refuge to people fleeing persecution, recalling how the ancient Kingdom of Aksum offered protection to early Muslims escaping persecution in Mecca during the seventh century.   He said the refusal of the Aksumite king to surrender the refugees to their persecutors remained a powerful historical example of the principle of non-refoulement, a cornerstone of the 1951 Refugee Convention. “Long before this principle was codified in international law, Ethiopia’s history offered an enduring example of the importance of protecting those fleeing persecution and upholding the dignity of people seeking refuge,” he said, stressing that refugee protection transcends borders, cultures and generations. The ambassador underscored that refugee protection is a shared international responsibility, calling for stronger collective action, equitable responsibility-sharing and sustained support for refugees and host communities amid rising displacement and growing pressure on humanitarian resources. He also highlighted Ethiopia’s engagement in the Global Refugee Forum and the launch of the Makatet Roadmap as part of efforts to advance refugee inclusion, self-reliance and access to national systems while supporting development in host communities. He emphasized that these nationally led initiatives require predictable international financing and meaningful partnerships to achieve lasting results. Drawing on Ethiopia’s experience serving on the Executive Committee’s Bureau over the past two years, Ambassador Tsegab outlined the country’s vision for an effective, inclusive and constructive committee that promotes focused deliberations and gives all members meaningful opportunities to contribute.   He pledged to foster open engagement among member states, UNHCR and its leadership, promoting dialogue and consensus to bridge differing perspectives and advance shared objectives in accordance with the committee’s rules of procedure. Addressing growing humanitarian needs and significant funding constraints, he stressed that institutional reform and efficiency must strengthen—not undermine—UNHCR’s ability to protect refugees and deliver assistance where it is most needed. “Reform, efficiency, and the responsible use of resources must strengthen rather than weaken UNHCR’s capacity to deliver protection and assistance where they are most needed,” he said. Ambassador Tsegab also expressed appreciation to Japan’s Ambassador Oike, the outgoing chairperson, and the previous Bureau for their work over the past year. He pledged Ethiopia’s close cooperation with the newly elected Executive Committee, the High Commissioner, UNHCR management and the Secretariat to advance shared priorities and strengthen the international refugee protection system.   Ethiopia’s election comes as the country continues to host more than 1.2 million refugees and asylum seekers, underscoring both its substantial responsibilities and its engagement in international efforts to strengthen refugee protection and support host communities.

Addis Ababa, October 15, 2026 (ENA) — Empowering women in agriculture is crucial to bringing about the desired change and transformation in the sector, Agriculture State Minister Sofia Kassa said. International Women Farmers and Pastoralists Day was marked under the theme: “Empower Women Farmers, Strengthen Food Security, Build a Prosperous Ethiopia” in Addis Ababa today. In her opening remarks, the state minister emphasized that to fully utilize the country's development potential in the agricultural sector, efforts must be strengthened to ensure the direct benefit of women farmers and pastoralists. She noted that empowering women farmers significantly contributes to ensuring food security and building a prosperous Ethiopia.   Therefore, Sofia stressed the need to empower women farmers by enhancing financial access, leveraging technology, and ensuring land ownership, among other measures. Efforts will be strengthened to ensure that women benefit equally from digital agricultural technologies, access to climate-resilient seed varieties, and labor-saving tools, the state minister said. Emphasizing that an adequate financial supply tailored to the nature of agriculture must be facilitated, she expressed the government's strong commitment to providing financial access in rural areas, particularly for women farmers and pastoralists. Stating that women across all parts of the country are engaged in agricultural activities ranging from smallholder farming to large-scale investment, Sofia added that women achieve impressive yields through diligent land preparation and cultivation activities.   Furthermore, she pointed out that women also possess the capacity to be productive, competitive, and strong leaders despite facing many challenges, highlighting the need to support and empower model women farmers and pastoralists moving forward. As women make a significant contribution to feeding millions of people globally, the state minister said greater attention will be given to enhance women’s participation and benefits in the sector. On the sidelines of the event, 33 water pumps and 150 knapsack sprayers were distributed to model women farmers as part of encouraging female farmers.

Addis Ababa, October 14, 2026 (ENA)— Emergency humanitarian assistance is reaching drought-affected communities in Afar Region, Ethiopia, targeting vulnerable households and people in need following climate-induced challenges. The first round of relief supplies, dispatched from the central grain warehouse in Adama city, is being delivered to high-priority individuals and families across the region. In Girifo Kebele of Bidu Woreda, residents have begun receiving the assistance, which beneficiaries say has arrived at a critical time as drought continues to strain their livelihoods and access to food. Meyrem Abdu, one of the beneficiaries, said the assistance would help support her children and other family members who have been facing food shortages.   She expressed appreciation for the government’s response to the situation affecting communities in the region. Asiya Mohammed, another beneficiary, said the intervention would help ease the hardship facing her family and other residents. He further noted that the support was particularly important given their difficult circumstances. On his part, Team Leader of Inventory Quality and Control at the Afar Region Disaster Risk Management Commission, Mohammed Abdella said the distribution was targeting the most vulnerable groups in affected areas.   He explained that the region had previously been mobilizing its own resources to support drought-affected communities and was now supplementing those efforts with additional relief supplies dispatched by the Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission. Bidu Woreda Agriculture and Natural Resources Office Head, Yesuf Mohammed said drought associated with climate change had caused significant hardship for local residents, describing the humanitarian intervention as timely and essential.   The ongoing distribution is intended to provide immediate relief to affected households as authorities mobilize assistance for communities facing the impacts of drought. The humanitarian supply comes amid ongoing efforts by regional and federal authorities to support drought-affected communities and address food shortages in vulnerable areas, as ENA learned.

Addis Ababa, October 14, 2026 (ENA) — The Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission (EDRMC) has announced that it has launched its second round of humanitarian assistance for communities hit hard by climate-related shocks in the Afar Region. Relief supplies loaded from the central reserve warehouses in Adama are currently enroute to support vulnerable households facing severe moisture stress, drought, and seasonal flooding risks in the region. Trucks carrying emergency relief supplies departed today from the central grain storage warehouse in Adama, heading toward affected areas across the region. According to the commission, the assistance aims to support the most vulnerable communities as the regional government continues mobilizing local resources to address the crisis. Reaffirming its commitment to supporting affected populations, the commission emphasized its ongoing efforts to strengthen the country's capacity to respond to both natural and human-induced disasters. The commission also assured the public that measures are in place to ensure relief supplies reach their intended beneficiaries efficiently. This release follows an initial round of humanitarian assistance transported to several areas of the Afar Region a few days ago, according to EDRMC.  

Addis Ababa, October 13, 2026 (ENA) — The Ministry of Health and the Beginnings Fund have launched a five-year, 90 million USD investment to accelerate Ethiopia’s efforts to prevent maternal and newborn deaths and to strengthen health services. Health Minister Dr. Mekdes Daba stated at the launching ceremony that the partnership with a coalition of global philanthropic foundations, investors, and institutional partners marks a major milestone toward achieving this goal. “Our partnership with the Beginnings Fund assumes a particular significance because we are launching a landmark initiative of investment of 90 million USD dedicated to accelerating progress towards ending preventable maternal and newborn deaths in Ethiopia,” she said. Dr. Mekdes added that the investment would help ensure that “the most competent professionals” are at the forefront of care, so that mothers can trust and utilize public health facilities. She noted that Ethiopia has recorded remarkable progress over two decades, with maternal mortality significantly reduced and more women seeking antenatal care. However, she stressed against complacency: “We cannot be satisfied with what we have improved in urban areas. This is a time for us to challenge ourselves and deliver for our community.” Beginnings Fund CEO Alice Kang’ethe said the organization’s role is to support government priorities rather than pursue separate agendas. “The fund is focused on supporting governments to accelerate progress… by investing in people, products, and health systems for quality maternal and newborn care,” she stated. Kang’ethe expressed confidence that Ethiopia could surpass the Sustainable Development Goal targets on mortality reduction. “We know what it takes to address preventable deaths. Solutions exist, including new innovations. Our joint role is to ensure these interventions are delivered quickly, with quality, to all women and newborns, consistently and at scale,” she said. UAE Ambassador to Ethiopia Abdalla Hassan Alshamsi praised Ethiopia’s leadership and commitment to improving healthcare. “This achievement reflects Ethiopia’s leadership and its dedication to improving healthcare for its people,” he said. He added that the Beginnings Fund initiative launched in Abu Dhabi aims to improve healthcare for 34 million mothers and newborns across Africa and help prevent more than 300,000 avoidable deaths by 2031. The Beginnings Fund is backed by philanthropies including the Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity, the Gates Foundation, the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, and Delta Philanthropies. It operates in Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Lesotho, Ghana, and Nigeria. The new investment signals a renewed push to reach mothers and newborns in remote and high-burden communities, where preventable deaths remain highest, it was said.

Addis Ababa, October 13, 2026 (ENA) — Former Deputy Prime Minister and YADAM Foundation Board Chairman Demeke Mekonnen has called on African countries to strengthen domestic resource mobilization, improve public financial management and adopt innovative financing mechanisms to combat malnutrition. Speaking at the High-Level Dialogue on Financing for Nutrition in Addis Ababa, Demeke highlighted Ethiopia’s experience, citing the Seqota Declaration’s target of mobilizing 638 million USD for nutrition reforms by 2030 and efforts to strengthen nutrition budget tracking. He urged African governments to move beyond fragmented, short-term funding arrangements and adopt sustainable financing mechanisms that make effective use of available resources. Amid declining official development assistance and growing competition for international aid, Demeke stressed that government commitment must translate into concrete action, including dedicated budget allocations, coordinated implementation across sectors, rigorous expenditure tracking and accountability for results. Highlighting Ethiopia’s institutional arrangements, he commended the Ministry of Finance for its role in allocating and safeguarding funding for the Seqota Declaration and broader national nutrition initiatives. Demeke also reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to ending stunting among children under two and underscored the need to accelerate the implementation of national food and nutrition policies. He said sustainable nutrition financing requires coordinated contributions from governments, development partners, the private sector and communities. While development partners can provide financial and technical assistance, private sector investment in local food production and community-led initiatives can help expand resources and improve access to nutritious food. Demeke further called on governments to integrate nutrition priorities into national budgets and multiyear expenditure frameworks, supported by evidence-based economic analyses demonstrating the costs of hunger and the benefits of investing in nutrition. He said demonstrating the economic and social returns of nutrition investments would help policymakers close funding gaps, allocate resources more effectively and prioritize programmes that strengthen human capital. Drawing on his involvement in the Seqota Declaration since its launch, Demeke emphasized the importance of sustained political leadership, cross-sector collaboration and financing plans tied to measurable results. He encouraged participating countries to share experiences, address implementation challenges and adopt proven domestic and innovative financing approaches. He also called for practical roadmaps and evidence-based investment cases to engage finance ministries, development banks and private investors in mobilizing resources for nutrition programmes. The High-Level Dialogue on Financing for Nutrition, taking place in Addis Ababa from October 12 to 16, brings together Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) focal points and finance ministry representatives from Ethiopia, Botswana, Eswatini, Liberia, Kenya and Sierra Leone. The forum aims to strengthen coordination between finance ministries and national nutrition coordination bodies, validate tools for developing nutrition investment cases and establish sustainable financing mechanisms. Drawing on Ethiopia’s experience, participants are working to develop roadmaps for mobilizing domestic and international resources to support nutrition programmes across the region.

Addis Ababa, October 13, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia’s Ministry of Finance has underscored the economic necessity of investing in nutrition, highlighting the high costs associated with child stunting and anemia, as well as the potential economic gains from eliminating undernutrition. Speaking at a high-level dialogue on nutrition financing in Addis Ababa, Samson Gebremariam, representing the Ministry’s International Financial Directorate, stressed that nutrition investments are vital for driving economic growth, boosting productivity, and building human capital. He identified domestic resource mobilization, targeted investment, and rigorous expenditure tracking as critical priorities for sustainable financing, particularly as official development assistance declines and competition for external resources intensifies. For the current fiscal year, the federal government has allocated nearly 20 million USD to the Seqota Declaration, with regional governments expected to match the amount, according to Samson. He noted that a financial administration directive now guides the allocation and management of these funds. Samson also pointed to collaboration with the African Development Bank on the Multisectoral Action for Stunting Reduction Project as a successful model of partnership-based financing. He emphasized that investment priorities must align with clear cost estimates, structured financing plans, and measurable outcomes to ensure efficient resource utilization. Hiwot Darsene, Lead Executive at the Ministry of Health’s Nutrition Coordination Office, explained that Ethiopia’s approach relies on multisectoral coordination, integrating health, agriculture, education, water, and social protection under the national Food and Nutrition Strategy. Since joining the Scaling Up Nutrition Movement in 2012, Ethiopia has leveraged its 10-year Food and Nutrition Strategy and the Seqota Declaration’s 15-year roadmap to coordinate interventions and accelerate efforts to end child stunting by 2030. At the local level, costed district implementation plans enable administrations to prioritize high-impact interventions and coordinate cross-sector budgets. Meanwhile, nutrition budget tracking and performance-monitoring tools are enhancing accountability and assessing spending efficiency. Hiwot also highlighted oversight mechanisms, including a high-level forum of federal ministers and regional presidents, alongside dedicated federal and regional coordination bodies. The dialogue convenes delegates from Ethiopia and across Africa to share best practices in domestic resource mobilization, nutrition investment models, and innovative financing mechanisms. The forum aims to refine funding strategies and foster collaboration between governments and development partners to tackle malnutrition and support long-term human capital.

Addis Ababa, October 12, 2026 (ENA) — Egypt has reportedly massacred at least 200 Sudanese miners and wounded many others in targeting mining sites in Sudan’s North Al-Wadi area. Many observers say the recent civilian attacks are part of Egypt’s direct and indirect involvement in Sudan’s ongoing conflict, aimed at maximizing its own interests. In a recent interview with ENA, Abdulshakur Abdulsamad, Senior Researcher at the Center for Strategic Studies and Regional Integration Initiative, underscored that Egypt seeks to prolong the war in Sudan to continue benefiting from the country’s water resources. The ongoing conflict allows Egypt to benefit from larger-than-usual quantities of water that Sudan has been unable to utilize, the senior researcher noted. In this regard, Egypt reportedly carried out airstrikes on artisanal mining sites in the Shamal al-Wadi area of Sudan’s northeastern Red Sea region on Saturday, October 10, as miners were preparing to begin work, according to Sudan Tribune. In response, the Civil Democratic Alliance of the Forces of the Revolution, known as Somoud, confirmed and condemned the airstrikes, which it said were carried out by the Egyptian military inside Sudanese territory. “Targeting civilians and endangering their lives is unacceptable and cannot be justified on any security grounds. We hold the leadership of the authorities appointed by the Sudanese Armed Forces responsible for what occurs in these areas under their control,” Somoud said. The alliance added that: “We demand that they refrain from remaining silent, as they did following previous airstrikes, and publicly state a clear position on what happened—particularly given their repeated invocation of sovereignty as a pretext for prolonging the war that is devastating the people of Sudan.” Somoud also called for an urgent, independent investigation into the airstrikes, measures to protect miners, emergency medical care and assistance for those affected, and guarantees against the recurrence of such attacks.

Addis Ababa, October 12, 2026 (ENA) — Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh has called on Ethiopians to turn the country’s ethnic, linguistic, cultural and religious diversity into a source of national strength, unity and collective progress as the country marks its 19th National Flag Day. In a message posted on his X page, Temesgen said Ethiopia’s national flag represents the values of Medemer (synergy), the strength of national unity and the country’s determination to achieve greatness. “Our national flag embodies the values of Medemer, the strength of our unity, and Ethiopia’s unwavering ascent toward greatness,” he said. The Deputy Prime Minister described the flag as a symbol that connects generations, honoring the sacrifices of those who came before while reflecting the determination of present-day citizens and their aspirations for a prosperous future.   He characterized it as “an enduring emblem of Ethiopia’s sovereignty, dignity, and national pride.” Temesgen emphasized that Ethiopia’s diversity should serve as a foundation for stronger national cohesion rather than a source of division, underscoring the shared identity and common aspirations that unite citizens across the country. “We may differ in ethnicity, language, culture, and faith, but we are bound together by our common Ethiopian identity, shared destiny, and collective aspiration for national progress,” he said. He further stressed that the philosophy of Medemer calls on Ethiopians to embrace their differences as a collective asset and translate their shared commitment to national development into meaningful action.   “Our national flag must always unite us, never divide us,” the Deputy Prime Minister affirmed. Temesgen concluded by urging citizens to renew their commitment to defending Ethiopia’s sovereignty, consolidating national unity, preserving peace and building a prosperous country that honors the sacrifices of previous generations while fulfilling the hopes of those to come. This year’s 19th National Flag Day is being celebrated under the theme “Our Flag for National Consensus and Unity,” highlighting the importance of shared national values, mutual understanding and collective responsibility in Ethiopia’s pursuit of peace and prosperity.

By Staff Writer From a renewed five-year political mandate and a reconstituted cabinet to strategic partnerships across Africa and Asia and major development milestones, Ethiopia’s October 4–10 week set the tone for a new chapter of governance, transformation and global engagement. Ethiopia closed a consequential week of political transition, institutional renewal and high-level diplomacy, laying the groundwork for a new five-year chapter under the Medemer Government. The reappointment of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, parliamentary endorsement of a renewed federal cabinet, expanding international partnerships and major economic initiatives collectively underscored the country’s ambitions to accelerate national transformation and strengthen its regional and global standing.   The week’s political momentum began with the opening of the new parliamentary year, setting the direction for the next phase of the Medemer Government. President Taye Atske Selassie’s address emphasized national unity, lasting peace, economic consolidation and institutional resilience as Ethiopia seeks to advance its development agenda and safeguard its sovereignty. A defining milestone was the swearing-in of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for a new five-year term, establishing the political foundation for the incoming administration. Parliament subsequently endorsed the new federal cabinet, marking a critical step toward translating the government’s mandate into policies, institutional reforms and tangible development outcomes. In its first regular session of the seventh parliamentary term, the House of Peoples’ Representatives endorsed the appointment of 22 federal cabinet ministers nominated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. The selection process considered educational qualifications, professional experience and demonstrated implementation capacity, alongside the importance of gender, ethnic and religious diversity. The appointments are intended to strengthen public service delivery and advance national interests in line with the expectations of citizens who participated in the June 1 General Election, in which more than 54 million people were registered to vote.   Diplomacy, meanwhile, emerged as a defining force in Ethiopia’s engagement with the wider world. Prime Minister Abiy’s talks with Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima in Addis Ababa highlighted the potential to deepen cooperation between two of Africa’s major political and economic players. Discussions explored opportunities in trade, investment and continental integration, reinforcing the importance of stronger African partnerships in unlocking shared prosperity and advancing the continent’s development aspirations.   Ethiopia’s engagement with India added another strategic dimension to the week. In his meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, Prime Minister Abiy explored avenues for expanding bilateral cooperation in trade, higher education, cultural exchange and digital transformation. The discussions reflected the longstanding relationship between the two countries and their shared interest in opening new frontiers of strategic cooperation.   At the same time, Ethiopia’s pursuit of reliable and sovereign access to the sea remained prominent in the national conversation. Former Speaker of the House of Peoples’ Representatives Abadula Gemeda reaffirmed the country’s determination to advance its strategic interests, underscoring the importance of maritime access to Ethiopia’s economic future, regional connectivity and geopolitical aspirations. Water diplomacy also featured prominently. Water and Energy Minister Habtamu Itefa highlighted Ethiopia’s efforts to assess the economic costs and lost development opportunities associated with obstacles to Nile-related projects. The initiative brought renewed attention to Ethiopia’s pursuit of equitable water utilization and its determination to advance development projects that serve its population while supporting regional cooperation. Economic transformation gained further momentum with a major step in mineral value addition. The inauguration of a National Precious Metals Refinery at the Bole Lemi Special Economic Zone marked progress toward expanding domestic mineral processing, retaining more value within the national economy and strengthening foreign-exchange earnings. By developing its capacity to refine precious metals domestically, Ethiopia is pursuing a broader industrial ambition: moving beyond raw-material exports toward higher-value production, investment and job creation.   Environmental sustainability offered another important highlight. International forestry specialists and United Nations experts commended Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative for its contribution to ecological restoration and climate resilience. The initiative continues to reinforce Ethiopia’s ambition to align economic development with environmental protection while advancing its wider climate and sustainability commitments. Peacebuilding and humanitarian response remained equally important to the national agenda. The National Rehabilitation Commission called on remaining armed militants in Tigray to surrender their weapons and join the rehabilitation and demobilization process, highlighting the continuing importance of peacebuilding and reintegration. Meanwhile, the federal government continued emergency assistance to communities affected by recent climate-related challenges, reflecting the need to combine long-term development with timely responses to humanitarian needs. Preparations to observe the Seventh National Cybersecurity Month and the 19th National Flag Day further highlighted the importance of digital security, national identity and consensus-building as Ethiopia navigates an increasingly complex domestic and international environment. Taken together, the developments of October 4–10 reveal a government beginning its new term amid high public expectations, significant economic ambitions and a demanding regional geopolitical landscape. Cabinet renewal and institutional reform are central to the domestic agenda, while engagement with Nigeria and India demonstrates Ethiopia’s continuing efforts to diversify partnerships and expand its diplomatic reach.   The broader challenge will be to translate political commitments and diplomatic momentum into measurable improvements in citizens’ lives, stronger institutions, sustainable economic growth and lasting peace. As the Medemer Government begins its five-year journey, Ethiopia’s direction will be shaped not only by its pursuit of sovereignty and international influence, but also by its capacity to deliver inclusive development and turn national ambitions into tangible results.

Addis Ababa, October 11, 2026 (ENA) — The resumption of Ethiopian Airlines’ commercial flights between Addis Ababa and Mekelle has brought relief to stranded passengers and renewed hope for families, businesses, and communities seeking a return to normal life in Tigray region. The service resumed on October 11 following a two-week suspension, restoring a vital air link between Mekelle, the regional capital, and the rest of the country. Passengers arriving at Alula Aba Nega International Airport welcomed the resumption as more than a return to air travel, describing it as an important step toward reconnecting communities. They described the resumption as a vital step toward reuniting families, revitalizing business activities, and improving access to essential goods and medical supplies. As ENA reported from the scene, passengers also emphasized that sustaining peace and restoring essential services are critical to ensuring that the renewed connectivity translates into lasting improvements in people's lives. Ashenafi Solomon, one of the passengers on the first flight, expressed relief at finally returning to Mekelle after being stranded in Addis Ababa during the suspension. “I feel very happy. I had traveled to Mekelle for work, but when the flights were unexpectedly canceled, I was deeply disappointed. Now that flights have resumed amid relative peace, I was able to travel on the first flight,” he said. Solomon noted that the interruption had compounded difficulties for residents, particularly by disrupting transportation, trade, and access to essential goods and medicines. He urged the federal government and other stakeholders to consolidate peace and ensure the uninterrupted delivery of medical supplies and humanitarian assistance to communities in need. “The people of Tigray have suffered greatly. Trade and access to medicine have been disrupted, and many people continue to face serious difficulties. We want peace to be strengthened and sustained so that essential supplies and assistance can reach those who need them,” he said. Beyond the immediate relief brought by the restored air link, Solomon underscored the human cost of continued conflict and the urgent need for lasting peace. “We have suffered enough. Families are losing their sons in this fratricidal conflict. We want lasting peace so that the people of Tigray can live in peace and rebuild their lives,” he said, expressing hope for stability across the country. Another passenger, Natnael Solomon, also welcomed the resumption, describing it as an encouraging development for a region whose people need peace and opportunities to rebuild their lives. “The benefits of this flight are clear. The people of Tigray are peace-loving and need peace. We are happy that the service has resumed, and we hope that conditions will continue to improve, normal activities will be restored, and progress will be sustained,” he said. For Natnael, the return of flights also carries a deeply personal significance, allowing people to reunite with loved ones and resume interrupted activities. “We are going to meet our relatives and resume our work. I am very happy, and it is difficult to express how I feel,” he said. He called on both the government and the public to contribute to sustaining peace and building on the progress made toward restoring normal life. Hadera, another passenger who had been stranded in Addis Ababa during the suspension, similarly welcomed the return of Ethiopian Airlines services to Mekelle. “I am very happy that Ethiopian Airlines flights have resumed to Mekelle. I was stuck in Addis Ababa because of the suspension. We all need peace, and we want that peace to be sustained,” he said. The restoration of commercial flights marks a significant step toward reestablishing vital transportation links to Tigray, with implications extending beyond passenger travel to trade, humanitarian operations, access to healthcare, and regional economic activity. However, passengers stressed that the benefits of restored connectivity will depend on sustained peace, reliable essential services, and improved access to supplies for communities affected by disruptions. Flights to Axum and Shire are also expected to resume soon, potentially extending the renewed air connectivity to other parts of Tigray and supporting the movement of people and goods. For passengers returning to Mekelle, the resumption represents both a practical relief and a renewed hope that peace, connectivity, and normal life can be restored and sustained across the region.

Addis Ababa, October 10, 2026 (ENA)— The distribution of humanitarian assistance to vulnerable residents of Alamata city has begun, providing urgent support to citizens facing hardship.   ENA learned that the assistance, fully funded by the Federal Government, was delivered within just a few days, demonstrating the government’s swift response to the needs of vulnerable citizens, according to residents. The initiative aims to provide essential assistance to vulnerable households, with efforts being strengthened to ensure aid reaches those most in need effectively.   The ongoing distribution highlights the importance of timely humanitarian intervention in addressing immediate needs and supporting the well-being of vulnerable communities, it was noted.

Addis Ababa, October 10, 2026 (ENA)—The Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission announced that it is delivering humanitarian aid to people requiring assistance in the Afar Region due to the impacts of climate change. The commission further stated that emergency humanitarian aid is currently being transported to the Afar Region from the central grain warehouse in Adama.   While regional states are working hard to respond to natural and man-made disasters using their own resources, the commission is also providing additional humanitarian aid to priority areas, it said. Accordingly, the commission disclosed that it is delivering humanitarian aid to those requiring top-priority assistance in the Afar Region. While the Afar Regional State continues providing assistance and monitoring efforts within its capacity, the commission is also providing close support and oversight.   Vehicles loaded with humanitarian aid from the Adama reserve warehouse have departed for the Afar Region, it was learned.