Addis Ababa, September 16, 2025 (ENA) -- The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has launched a regional social protection framework and operational plan during an advocacy and dissemination workshop in Abuja, Nigeria. The plan aims to guide member states in strengthening and expanding social protection systems, improving access to essential services, and promoting social inclusion across the region. The regional plan was launched through the community’s Department of Human Development and Social Affairs, in collaboration with international partners including the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Fatou Sow Sarr, ECOWAS Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs, thanked member states and partners for their support, stressing that “social protection is both a human right and an economic necessity.” According to the FAO, government commitments to social protection coverage remain limited in West Africa, with only 16 percent of the population covered by at least one benefit. Public spending on social protection represents on average less than 1 percent of GDP. Other challenges include limited access to social insurance, underdeveloped health programs and systems, and insufficient resilience schemes against climate shocks and humanitarian crises. Some countries have already taken steps to address these issues. Nigeria has introduced a digital cash transfer program benefiting more than 5.5 million households, along with a national social register covering over 19.78 million households. Senegal has pledged to strengthen social protection by increasing benefits and expanding the number of households included. With the adoption of this framework, ECOWAS provides momentum for member states to develop and reinforce their social protection systems while improving cross-sector coordination, said Gouantoueu Robert Guei, FAO Subregional Coordinator for West Africa and the Sahel.

Addis Ababa, September 11, 2025 (ENA) – Ethiopians and Ethiopian origins living in various parts of the world have celebrated the 2018 Ethiopian New Year. The holiday events were hosted by Ethiopian missions in the different parts of the world. During the celebrations, the diaspora expressed their joy at the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). The diaspora community also stated during the New Year's celebration that they would continue to strengthen their support for the development and growth of their country. Among the countries where the holiday was celebrated are the United States, France, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Russia, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, India, Pakistan, Rwanda, and Djibouti.

Addis Ababa, September 11, 2025 (ENA) – On the occasion of the 2018 New Year holiday, Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abebie shared meal for the needy people at the Amudi Feeding Center. During the meal-sharing event, Mayor Adanech extended her New Year's wishes. She stated that the city administration is holding similar meal-sharing events at 26 feeding centers throughout the capital to celebrate the holiday with the neediest persons.   "We have joyfully spent the New Year in unity with our beloved and respected vulnerable citizens," the mayor said. Lideta Sub-City Chief Executive, Leliti Gidey, thanked the mayor for attending the meal-sharing event in her sub-city on the New Year. She added that the event demonstrates the administration's respect and commitment to the residents.   Tadesse Fanta, Askale Gashaw, and Sherefa Kader, who are beneficiaries of the feeding center, expressed their happiness that Mayor Adanech Abebie spent the holiday with them. They all wished the New Year to be a year of peace, love, cooperation, and unity.

Addis Ababa, September 11, 2025 (ENA) -- Embassies and diplomatic missions based in Addis Ababa extended best New Year--2018 E.C wishes to Ethiopians. Ethiopians have received their 2018 New Year today. The New Year celebration, known as Enkutatash, falls on September 11th (or September 12th in a leap year) according to the Gregorian calendar. The diplomatic community in Addis Ababa extended their New Year best wishes to Ethiopians. U.S. Ambassador to Ethiopia Ervin Massinga said he believes the New Year will be a time to renew our hopes and strengthen our bonds. The Russian Embassy in Ethiopia wished Ethiopians a New Year of happiness and prosperity. The Embassy of Israel in Ethiopia also extended a message, saying, "Happy New Year 2018 to all Ethiopians." It wished for the New Year to be one of peace, love, growth, and prosperity affirming that Israel will continue to strengthen its strong relationship and cooperation with Ethiopia in the New Year. Armenian Ambassador to Ethiopia, Sahak Sargsyan, wished a Happy New Year to his Ethiopian sisters and brothers. The ambassador called Ethiopia a special country with "13 months of sunshine," and admired the way Ethiopians celebrate the New Year together with various cultural expressions, including traditional clothes and foods. The ambassador further noted that Ethiopia and Armenia are countries with a historical friendship that has lasted for ages, and he wished peace and success for the people of both nations in the New Year. In a message of good wishes, Luke Bullock, the Deputy Head of Mission at the British Embassy in Ethiopia, stated that the work carried out by Ethiopia and the United Kingdom over the past year to strengthen their bilateral relations has been fruitful. He also indicated that the UK wishes to enhance its cooperation with Ethiopia in various fields, including climate change, trade, and refugee affairs. The Australian Embassy in Ethiopia has also extended its best wishes to Ethiopians for a new year of peace, happiness, and prosperity. The Delegation of the European Union to Ethiopia wished for peace, prosperity, and continued progress for Ethiopia. The embassies of Sweden, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Canada in Ethiopia have also conveyed similar New Year wishes to Ethiopians.

Addis Ababa, September 11, 2025 (ENA) – The African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has extended warm greetings to the government and people of Ethiopia on the occasion of the Ethiopian New Year. He expressed wishes for renewed peace, stability, and prosperity for the nation. The chairperson’s message also underscored Ethiopia's continued contributions to the unity and progress of the African continent. “As Ethiopia ushers in a new year, we wish for renewed peace, stability, and prosperity for the nation and its people, and for their continued contributions to the unity and progress of our continent.” This annual gesture highlights the close relationship between the pan-African body and its host nation, a country that has been a foundational member and a key player in continental affairs for decades. Ethiopia’s New Year is a national public holiday celebrated on September 11th (or September 12th in a leap year). The holiday marks the end of the long rainy season and the beginning of a new season of vibrant sunshine and fresh beginnings. The celebration is characterized by the blooming of the iconic yellow daisies, known as ‘Adey Abeba,’ which blanket the countryside. Families gather for traditional feasts, and young girls, dressed in new clothes, visit neighbors and homes singing songs and exchanging bouquets of flowers, symbolizing the renewal of nature and hope for the year ahead.

Addis Ababa, September 11, 2025 (ENA) -- On the occasion of the Ethiopian New Year, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and First Lady Zinash Tayachew shared a holiday meal with the elderly and impoverished sections of society.   Ethiopians are celebrating their New Year today. Unlike the rest of the world, Ethiopia follows its own ancient calendar, which consists of 13 months, putting the country nearly eight years behind the Gregorian calendar.   While the celebrations are filled with joy and hope, the holiday also serves as a time for reflection and renewed national dedication

Addis Ababa, September 11, 2025 (ENA) -- Ethiopian religious leaders in their New Year's message have powerfully declared that the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is more than just an event—it is the dawn of a new era. The religious leaders also urged for increased efforts to attain national success and to bolster peace and unity. Ethiopians are celebrating their unique New Year, which falls on September 11th (or September 12th in a leap year) according to the Gregorian calendar. His Holiness Abune Mathias, Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, said that as we celebrate the New Year, we should strive to strengthen the country's peace, development, and unity. The Patriarch stated that Ethiopians need to welcome the new era by abandoning individualism and embracing the spirit of equality and togetherness, expressing his wishes that the New Year would be a time when differences are resolved peacefully and permanently through dialogue, and significant national successes are achieved. He also urged religious leaders and the entire community to work and pray together for the overall development of the country. Ethiopia’s Catholic Church Cardinal, Berhaneyesus Souraphiel, stated that the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) heralds a new era of light and success for Ethiopians. He also said that the New Year is a grace given to us to do good things for the country and its people. Secretary General of the Evangelical Churches Council of Ethiopia, Reverend Dereje Jemberu, stated that the country has overcome challenges with resilience and unity in the past year, achieving significant victories. He added that welcoming the New Year in 2018 (Ethiopian calendar) as the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is completed and new good news is announced for the country is a great source of inspiration. He conveyed a message for the new generation to work with honesty and diligence for their country, using their knowledge and strength to bring about greater change in the New Year.

Addis Ababa, September 10, 2025 (ENA) -- Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has extended heartfelt New Year greetings to Ethiopians both at home and abroad, emphasizing the path to Ethiopia's renewal as manifested in the momentous inauguration of Ethiopia's Grand Renaissance Dam (GERD). The inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is a symbol of national pride and unity. The Prime Minister cited achievements made on various sectors last year such as agriculture, tourism, mining, manufacturing, and information technology, underscoring Ethiopia’s steady march toward development. Most importantly, GERD is a vivid manifestation that can achieve more if we press ahead with perseverance and collective effort, Prime Minister Abiy stressed. To realize GERD, conceived by Ethiopians in their hearts and minds for centuries, overcoming imminent challenges ahead of us was essential, Abiy reflected. He acknowledged that immense obstacles were encountered, which required not only technical expertise but extraordinary courage and sacrifice. He declared that the dam marks the beginning of a “historic chapter” for Ethiopia, noting that its completion is more than just a technical feat; it is a triumph of spirit and determination. Stating that the last of phase of the dam was very tough, PM Abiy underlined that the situation had required us to tighten our belts, suppress our pain, conquer fears, and death. By the will of the Almighty, the unyielding spirit of our people, the dedication of project workers, as well as the sacrifice of our security forces, GERD has prevailed, Abiy also noted. The Prime Minister has underlined that Ethiopia's image, narrative and geopolitical stature have changed. Ethiopia's resurgence, which our ancestors have dreamed and longed for and this generation has been struggling for, has been realized. Importantly, the Prime Minister stressed that the GERD is not the final destination, but the starting point for yet a larger generational journey. If we remain united in strength and purpose, Ethiopia is abundantly rich in history, culture, religion, and natural resources for Africa and the world at large, Abiy explained. Ethiopian New Year will be a period where we will deepen our renewal, Abiy emphasized. He urged citizens to face challenges head-on while reshaping our collective destiny. In the New Year, Ethiopia will become more brighter, flourishing and booming, he expressed hope. The Prime Minister further stated as we observe GERD, we will remember Ethiopians resilience and endurance; and as we see Nigat Lake “Dawn Lake”, we think that Ethiopia's dawn is drawing. “The dam is a testament to what we have achieved, while the lake reflects what is yet to come,” he added. PM Abiy emphasized, “What others throw at us must push us upward. We must put our minds and hands to work. The speed, vision, and creativity of our people will define Ethiopia’s future.” Framing the GERD as a historic turning point not just for the Abay River but for the entire nation, the Prime Minister urged every Ethiopian, from office workers to farmers, to dedicate their knowledge, energy, and passion to building a prosperous future. This project has shown us what we can achieve when we work together. We are witnesses to how the Creator supports those who strive for progress. The same Creator who gave us the wisdom to solve challenges of the past will guide us through those yet to come. Looking ahead with optimism, he expressed confidence that the New Year would be a time when Ethiopia further demonstrates its collective strength. “Growth and prosperity come through cooperation. Those who initiated, supported, and fought for this project have etched their names into the history of the Renaissance Dam. To all who gave, whether through finances, knowledge, energy, media, diplomacy, or professional skill, you are forever remembered as Ethiopia’s dedicated children, ” Prime Minister Abiy pointed out.

Addis Ababa, September 6, 2025 (ENA) –Vice President of Ethiopia’s ruling Prosperity Party and Head of the Democratic System Building Center with the rank of Deputy Prime Minister, Adem Farah, revealed that the government of Ethiopia has made significant investments in primary health care. Adem made the remark in his speech delivered at the 2nd Africa–Caribbean Health Ministers' Meeting, that has been is kicked off today in Addis Ababa under the theme “Forward Together: One Voice, One Future.” Speaking on Ethiopia’s commitment in the health sector, he said the country stands as a testament to what is possible when political will is aligned with strategic action. “Over the years, we have made remarkable progress in improving maternal, neonatal, and child health. Maternal mortality declined from 871 per 100,000 live births in 2000 to 195 in the latest data. Similarly, neonatal mortality declined from 39 per 1,000 live births in 2000 to 26 in 2022. These numbers are not mere statistics; they represent lives saved, families strengthened, and a more secure future. They are the result of sustained government commitment, investment in healthcare infrastructure, expanded access to essential services, and the development of a skilled workforce dedicated to quality care at both the community and facility levels. He noted that at the heart of this progress lies a strong primary health care system. Ethiopia’s approach underscores the critical role of primary services as the foundation of universal health coverage. The government has made significant investments in primary health care, including the construction of 17,000 community health posts to ensure healthcare reaches even the most remote areas, more than 450 primary hospitals, and 4,000 health centers, expanding access to essential services. A community-based health insurance system now covers 80 percent of the population and will soon be strengthened by the launch of social health insurance, ensuring financial protection for millions. Adem added that Ethiopia is implementing people-centered, process-optimized, and system-targeted health service delivery to build a sustainable and resilient health system.

Addis Ababa, September 4, 2025 (ENA) – Artists drawn from Ras Theater presented the famous Ethiopian News Year cultural song "Abeb Ayosh'' at the Chinese Embassy in Addis Ababa today in connection with upcoming Ethiopian New Year. The captivating song of "Abeb Ayosh'' played by the artists was part of a cultural exchange to strengthen people-to-people ties between Ethiopia and China. During the occasion, Ambassador Nebiyu Tedla, Director General for Public Diplomacy Affairs at Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the event and the cultural exchange it fostered between the two peoples. The artists from Ras Theatre beautifully brought to life Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage, music, and the spirit of renewal that marks our New Year,” Ambassador Nebiyu said.   The Ambassador also noted, “We are especially pleased to showcase the New Year song at the Chinese Embassy, which speaks volumes about the depth and mutual respect that define our strategic partnership with China.” He went on to underscore the historical and cultural bonds that unite the two countries, drawing attention to the unique features of both nations’ ancient calendar. Our shared appreciation for heritage, tradition, and time-honored values reflects the deeper cultural affinities between our peoples, he added. He recalled the recent public diplomacy delegation visit to China, where Ethiopia showcased its rich, diverse cultural show. “This was more than a diplomatic gesture; it was a reaffirmation of our dedication to strengthening people-to-people ties, which form the bedrock of our bilateral relationship.”   Deputy Ambassador and Chargé d’Affaires at the Chinese Embassy Sun Mingxi on his part, expressed warm appreciation to Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other key stakeholders for their role in organizing the cultural celebration. “The relationship between China and Ethiopia is not merely strategic, it is a brotherhood grounded in mutual respect and shared values inherited from our ancient civilizations,” Sun Mingxi said. He described the event as “a shining example of cultural diplomacy” and “a valuable opportunity for us at the Embassy to engage with and appreciate Ethiopia’s rich intangible cultural heritage.” He added that the staff of the Chinese Embassy were deeply moved by the performance, enjoying the vibrant dances, joyful atmosphere, and traditional songs that reflect the spirit of Ethiopia. As both nations continue to expand their collaboration in trade, infrastructure, and cultural exchange, the celebration served as a timely reminder of the enduring friendship and shared future that Ethiopia and China envision together.

Addis Ababa, September 4, 2025 (ENA) -- South African Embassy in Addis Ababa celebrated Heritage Day, highlighting the country’s rich cultural diversity and deep historical connections with Ethiopia, according to South Africa's Ambassador to Ethiopia, Noceba Losi. While South Africans worldwide celebrate their heritage throughout September, the main event, Heritage Day, is officially marked on September 24th. During the celebration in Ethiopia, the ambassador highlighted a special emphasis on the historical ties between the two countries. "When South Africa's Heritage Day is celebrated in Ethiopia, it is also to highlight the country's cultural diversity and its historic ties with Ethiopia," Ambassador Losi stated.   The main goal of the festivities is to showcase the "Rainbow Nation" through its diverse cultures. The event will feature a range of activities designed to immerse attendees in South African culture. These include fashion shows displaying traditional cultural outfits, as well as samplings of various South African foods and drinks. Beyond the cultural showcase, a key objective is to strengthen the bilateral relations between South Africa and Ethiopia. In a related development, Ambassador Losi also mentioned ongoing efforts to transform a significant historical site into a tourism center. This site, located in Kolife, Addis Ababa is where the late anti-apartheid revolutionary and former President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela, received training during his struggle for freedom. This initiative aims to honor the shared history and sacrifices that have bound the two nations together.

Addis Ababa, September 3, 2025 (ENA) -- Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has conveyed a congratulatory message to all Muslims on the occasion of the 1500th birthday anniversary of the Prophet Muhammad. In his message, the premier stated that celebrating the birthdays of great leaders is an opportunity to reflect on their examples, their teachings, the challenges they faced, and how they overcame them. As we mark the birth of Prophet Muhammad, we are reminded to follow in his footsteps, learn from his life, and draw strength from the way he endured and triumphed over hardships, he said. This year’s celebration falls on the eve of 2017 Ethiopian year and on this occasion, the PM recalled the Prophet’s words: “There are no two things that should be combined better than patience and knowledge.” He emphasized that this message is particularly relevant today, as Ethiopia’s path to prosperity is becoming a reality. “God has blessed our efforts and answered our prayers. For Ethiopia’s prosperity to be fully realized, we must combine knowledge, which is a light that guides us, with patience, which helps us overcome trials with perseverance. This is what we have learned from the Prophet ( Peace Be Upon Him),” Abiy stressed. He further quoted the Prophet’s teaching: “If the Day of Judgment comes while you are planting a tree, continue to plant it.” In this spirit, the premier urged citizens to continue performing good deeds and contributing to the well-being of the country, regardless of challenges or obstacles. Abiy also expressed his hope that all Muslim brothers and sisters would celebrate this year’s Mawlid by committing themselves to good deeds most beloved to Allah. He noted that the upcoming Ethiopian year (2018) will be a time to further strengthen Ethiopia’s development and renaissance across all sectors.

Addis Ababa, September 3, 2025 (POA) -- An official ceremony was held on Tuesday in Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, to welcome the colonial-era relics returned by France. Three skulls of the Sakalava ethnic group, one of which is believed to belong to King Toera and the other two to his warriors, were returned to Madagascar after 128 years in France. "Today, we pay tribute to the heroes who sacrificed themselves for their country, and in particular to the courageous struggle led by King Toera in Ambiky (in western Madagascar) in August 1897, against French colonisers," said Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina during the ceremony. While stressing that history cannot be forgotten, Rajoelina said, "The return of relics allows us to understand that the memory of those who fought for their country will never fade." "It remains alive in our hearts, reminding us of our duty to preserve this heritage and build a united and prosperous nation," he said. "Making Madagascar a thriving and respected nation, progressing steadily and occupying its rightful place on all fronts, is a challenge we have set ourselves and a goal we must achieve." The skulls were formally handed over to Madagascar at a ceremony held at the French Ministry of Culture in late August. After the official ceremony in Antananarivo, they will be transported later this week to the Menabe region in western Madagascar for burial, according to Xinhua. Madagascar was colonized by France from 1896 and gained its independence on June 26, 1960.

Addis Ababa, September 2, 2025 (ENA) -- The Government Communication Service has announced the plan to celebrate the 13th Ethiopian month (Pagumen) with various events across the country. As the 2017 Ethiopian year concludes, the minister reflected on the progress made despite challenges, emphasizing that the upcoming New Year is seen as a time for fresh plans and renewed hope, with Pagumen marking a significant transition —both in the calendar and in the nation’s aspirations. The year in Ethiopia lasts 13 months, each with 30 days and Pagumen with 5 or 6 days in a leap year. Briefing journalists today, Government Communication Service Minister Legesse Tulu said the five/six days of Pagumen hold special significance as a period for evaluation and planning for the year ahead. Each day of Pagumen will be celebrated with a unique theme revolving around resilience, diversity, progress, renewal, and the promise of a brighter future, he pointed out. Moreover, the celebration of Pagumen Days is intended to foster national unity and inspire individual and institutional growth as Ethiopia moves forward into the New Year. Accordingly, Pagumen 1 is designated as Resilience Day that will be celebrated under the theme “Firm Foundation for Resilient Nation.” It honors those dedicated to fostering peace, tranquility, and prosperity of the country. Pagumen 2 is Diversity Day, which will be celebrated under the theme “Diversity: the Beauty of Ethiopia,” reinforcing solidarity among all Ethiopians. Pagumen 3 is Progress Day that will be celebrated under the theme “Progress for Sustainable Growth.” The day will acknowledge the remarkable achievements of the past Ethiopian fiscal year while setting ambitious goals for the upcoming New Year. Pagumen 4 is Renewal Day, which will be celebrated under the theme “Sustainable Development for National Revival,” commemorating the significant strides made in Ethiopia’s journey of renewal and transformation. Pagumen 5 is the Day of the Future that will be celebrated under the theme “Making Digital Ethiopia a Reality,” highlighting the significant progress and efforts Ethiopia has made in the digital sector. Elaborating on the endeavors of the government during the concluding Ethiopian year, Legesse noted that Ethiopia has made significant strides in its development and the establishment of an inclusive democratic system over the past seven years. He pointed out the achievements in increasing production and productivity, with the goal of attaining food sovereignty and reducing dependence on foreign aid. Ethiopia's industrial movement has also successfully replaced many imported products, while coordinated fiscal policies have facilitated a transition from financial difficulties to comprehensive macroeconomic reform. Notably, the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has garnered international attention, with Ethiopia successfully navigating challenges and asserting its sovereignty on this critical project.

Addis Ababa, August 30, 2025 (ENA)— The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF handed over 1.1 million doses of cholera vaccines on Thursday to the Chadian government, an official announced, which are expected to help curb the spread of the disease in the Central African country as the death toll mounts. Mahamat Hamit Ahmat, Deputy General Secretary in the Ministry of Public Health and Prevention, told reporters the vaccines will help fight a cholera outbreak in Sila and Ouaddai provinces and prevent new cases. The cholera epidemic, declared on July 13, has killed 75 people in eastern Chad, according to statistics released Wednesday by health officials. Ahmat said a vaccination campaign will be conducted from Sept. 2-8 in five health districts in the east of the country. Globally, so far this year, more than 390,000 cases of cholera have been recorded and over 4,300 deaths across 31 countries, according to the WHO. Cholera has swept through several African nations, including Sudan, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, due to poor sanitation and climate-related flooding. Cholera, a bacterial infection, is caused by consuming contaminated water or food

Addis Ababa, August 27, 2025 (ENA) -- Despite progress over the last decade, billions of people around the world still lack access to essential water, sanitation, and hygiene services, putting them at risk of disease and deeper social exclusion, according to a new report released by the United Nations. The report from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the children’s agency (UNICEF), issued as World Water Week gets underway, highlights persistent gaps in access, with vulnerable communities facing the greatest disparities. The report published under the theme “Progress on Household Drinking Water and Sanitation 2000–2024: special focus on inequalities,” revealed that, while some progress has been made, major gaps persist. People living in low-income countries, fragile contexts, rural communities, children, and minority ethnic and indigenous groups face the greatest disparities. Despite gains since 2015, 1 in 4 – or 2.1 billion people globally – still lack access to safely managed drinking water, including 106 million who drink directly from untreated surface sources. “Water, sanitation, and hygiene are not privileges; they are basic human rights,” said Ruediger Krech, Director of WHO’s Environment, Climate Change and Health Department. The report finds that people in least developed countries are more than twice as likely as people in other countries to lack basic drinking water and sanitation services, and over three times as likely to go without basic hygiene. “These inequalities are especially stark for girls who often bear the burden of water collection and face additional barriers during menstruation,” said Cecilia Scharp, UNICEF’s head of water, sanitation, and hygiene services. Data from 70 countries reveal that while most women and adolescent girls have menstrual materials and a private place to change, many still lack sufficient supplies to manage their needs safely and with dignity. Some 1.7 billion people still lack basic hygiene services at home, including 611 million with no facilities at all. “We must accelerate action, especially for the most marginalised communities, if we are to keep our promise to reach the Sustainable Development Goals,” said Krech. “At the current pace, the promise of safe water and sanitation for every child is slipping further from reach – reminding us that we must act faster and more boldly to reach those who need it most,” said Scharp.

Addis Ababa, August 27, 2025 (ENA) - The International Labour Organization (ILO) commended Ethiopia for implementing legal instruments to ensure labor protection for workers employed in foreign countries and its continued effort for partnership. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Khumbula Ndaba, the ILO Country Director for Ethiopia, Djibouti, Somalia, Sudan, and South Sudan, highlighted recent government initiatives to protect its citizens. He specifically praised the launch of the LeMengede mobile application, a joint project developed by the Ministry of Labor and Skills and the ILO. The LeMengede app provides essential information to citizens, including details on destination countries, their rights and responsibilities as workers, and contact information for Ethiopian embassies and consular offices abroad. According to Ndaba, this technology-driven tool will help the government better manage labor migration and demonstrate its commitment to prioritizing the safety and rights of its citizens. He also emphasized the crucial role of bilateral labor agreements between Ethiopia and destination countries. These agreements, he explained, regulate employment conditions and safeguard the rights of Ethiopian workers. He cited the agreement made with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a prime example, which ensures that Ethiopian nationals can work legally in the Emirates with their rights protected. Ethiopia has signed similar agreements with other countries, especially in the Arab world, to provide legal employment opportunities and ensure the welfare of its migrant workers. Ndaba noted that these agreements are vital for setting clear standards, such as prohibiting the abuse of workers or the confiscation of their passports. "These agreements empower the Government of Ethiopia to intervene whenever necessary, protect the rights of its citizens, and monitor their safety abroad," Ndaba stated. He also underscored the importance of complementary measures like pre-departure training to help prepare Ethiopian workers for overseas employment and ensure a safer migration process.

Addis Ababa, August 27, 2025 (ENA)— The 15th Annual East African Communication Association (EACA) Conference officially opened today in Addis Ababa. A three-day conference brought together media and communication scholars, educators, researchers, trainers, and practitioners from Africa and beyond. The opening session of the conference was attended by prominent leaders, including Minister of Government Communication Services Legesse Tulu, Ethiopian Broadcasting Authority Director General Samson Mekonnen, Addis Ababa University President Samuel Kifle, and African Communication Association President Prof. Margaret Jjuuko. The conference is also anticipated to deliberate on emerging issues related to innovation, practice, scholarship and development in media and communication field. The East African Communication Association (EACA) was established in 2011 by a group of Journalism, Media, and Communication scholars working in East Africa. EACA membership is largely drawn from universities in East Africa but the association is open to collaboration with journalism/media scholars and practitioners from all over the world and indeed has had members from Germany, South Africa, West Africa, Norway, the United States, and El-Salvador among others.

Addis Ababa, August 26, 2025 (POA) — Africa unveiled a continental cholera emergency preparedness and response plan for the period September 2025 to February 2026. The plan is expected to help African countries respond more effectively to cholera outbreaks. It also calls for national leaders to take central responsibility in tackling the deadly waterborne disease. This continental strategy was unveiled on the sidelines of the 75th Session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for Africa in Lusaka, the capital of Zambia. It is designed to provide countries with guidance on mounting swift and coordinated responses to outbreaks. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) model aims to achieve rapid domestic resource mobilization to fund vaccines and case management supplies to combat current outbreaks. Launching the plan, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema urged African leaders to establish presidential task forces on cholera, stressing the importance of high-level accountability and coordination.   "This moment marks a turning point in Africa's fight against a disease that has robbed communities not just of health, but of dignity and opportunity," he said. The President noted that the absence of a coordinated framework had often led to delayed or inadequate responses. Hichilema underscored the need to allocate domestic resources before seeking external aid, saying such a move would demonstrate a genuine national commitment. He also called for stronger collaboration between health ministries and those responsible for water and sanitation, adding that cholera is primarily a water and sanitation challenge. Mohamed Janabi, WHO regional director for Africa, described the roadmap as a strategic and technical blueprint in direct response to a call to action, embodying AU member states' united determination to eliminate cholera as a public health threat on the continent. Cholera remains widespread across Africa, largely due to poor water and sanitation services. According to the WHO, 33 African countries reported cholera in 2024, with a cumulative total of 804,721 cases and 5,805 deaths.

Addis Ababa, August 25, 2025 (ENA)—Africa needs to build systems that empower learners, strengthen nations and advance prosperity of the continent, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh noted. The 41st Annual Conference of the Association for Educational Assessment in Africa (AEAA) has commenced in Addis Ababa today. The conference will continue for the next four consecutive days. In his opening remarks, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh highlighted the significance of the conference in reflecting on past achievements and shaping a future where quality education is a guarantee for every child. Temesgen added that educational assessment is not merely a tool, but a vital compass guiding educational progress. The deputy prime minister stated AEAA has become a vital space for collaboration, knowledge and for innovation, together we can lift education higher. He stated that Ethiopia stands as the cradle of humanity and the victory of Adwa symbolizes courage and unity, a spirit that must permeate education. Today, Ethiopia and several African nations are implementing bold educational reforms, aiming to raise standards for all learners, he noted. In this regard, the conference serves as a platform for sharing innovative practices and transforming ideas into tangible progress, he emphasized. The Deputy Prime Minister also pointed out that Africa needs to build systems that empower learners, strengthen nations and advance the prosperity of the continent. “Let Ethiopia be the bridge between what we have been and what we dare to become. Let us pledge here to build systems that empower every learner. That strengthens every nation. That advances prosperity for all of Africa,” Temesgen elaborated. Temesgen also called for a Common Continental Assessment Framework, which would provide coherence across nations, enhance mobility for learners and educators, and respect local cultures and curricula. He stressed that Africa is rising and leading is essential. In this aspect, AEAA plays a critical role in aligning the goals of ministries, institutions, and communities to ensure that every assessment system is credible and just, he noted. Association for Educational Assessment in Africa (AEAA) President, Mafu S. Rakometsi emphasized the imperative for educational systems to confront historical injustices. He urged practitioners and policymakers to revise assessment methods to ensure fairness and accuracy, which are vital for informed decision-making. According to the AEAA President, the conference aims to explore transformative approaches in educational assessment, enhancing quality learning for future generations. Expressing a vision for a prosperous, united, and innovative Africa, he stressed the need for a common assessment framework to elevate educational standards and promote equitable access to quality education across the continent. On her part, Education Division Head at African Union, Sophia Ndemutila Ashipala highlighted the relevance of transforming educational assessment systems towards quality learning and informed decision making to achieve AU Agenda 2063. Ashipala outlined AU's commitment to modernizing and harmonizing educational assessment systems to meet 21st-century needs, focusing on competency-based and learner-centered models. The launch of the Common Continental Assessment Framework would establish a benchmark for education across Africa while respecting national diversity and facilitate data-driven decision-making, enhance academic mobility, and support regional integration, she added. She also emphasized for strong partnerships among governments, institutions, and civil society for innovative thinking and actionable strategies in transforming educational assessment in Africa, affirming AU's commitment to fostering inclusive and equitable education to empower the next generation of leaders and innovators in Africa. Education Minister, Professor Berhanu Nega urged Africans to become conscious of evolving trends in this dynamic world. "Now is the time for Africa to change. Africans need to be conscious about them; start to think carefully and anticipate what is coming ahead," he stated. The minister underscored the necessity of transforming the education system to align with contemporary demands, ensuring quality education while maintaining the integrity of assessments and data-driven decision-making. Prof. Berhanu pointed out Ethiopia's swift advancements across various sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, and energy, emphasizing that similar progress is being made in the educational landscape through enhanced assessment practices.