January 4, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has called upon Ethiopian scholars to exercise stronger intellectual leadership by forging a shared national narrative vital to breaking free from poverty and achieving sustainable prosperity. On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of Addis Ababa University, PM Abiy, an alumnus of the university, delivered a guest lecture titled “The Role of Intellectuals in National Prosperity.” The lecture was attended by esteemed academic leaders and senior government officials, concluding a series of high-level commemorative events held over the past weeks. In his paper, the Premier emphasized that scholars play a decisive role in the country’s development and must clearly recognize the leadership responsibilities entrusted to them across their respective disciplines. He stressed that meaningful national progress requires scholars to unite society around a common vision for Ethiopia’s future. Emphasizing the significant role of scholars in lifting Ethiopia out of the cycle of poverty and transitioning it to complete prosperity, he stated that to provide effective leadership, one must first conquer oneself. The Prime Minister asserted that leadership begins with the self, and scholars must identify and heed the inner voice within them to achieve victory. He highlighted that scholars have a crucial role in providing effective leadership by utilizing the responsibility, knowledge, and influence they possess. Stating that leadership means mastering time and the era, he insisted that every moment must be utilized for its intended purpose. He mentioned that the definition of a scholar is participating in the race against time without being preceded or delayed, indicating that scholars must understand their era and be able to see beyond. The Prime Minister stated that ideas are the force for change and scholars are the agents of change, stressing that they must fulfill their intellectual representation in politics, the economy, and human interactions. Idea creates movement, and movement creates a system, said Prime Minister Abiy, emphasizing that the ideas of scholars must create institutions.

January 4, 2026 (ENA)—The Ministry of Education said the Digital Ethiopia 2030 strategy is expected to play a decisive role in improving the quality and accessibility of education across the country. In an exclusive interview with ENA, State Minister of Education State Minister Kora Tushune said the national digital strategy will significantly support both educational expansion and quality enhancement. “Digital Ethiopia 2030 will have a vital contribution in ensuring quality education and widening access at all levels,” the state minister said. He recalled that the previous Digital Ethiopia 2025 strategy was successfully implemented, laying a strong foundation for building a skilled and capable society. According to him, the strategy modernized the teaching and learning process, digitalized student assessments, and strengthened the security and credibility of national examinations. Kora explained that higher education institutions benefited from the earlier strategy by opening new training fields that accelerated digitalization, improved learning inputs, and created a conducive environment for producing skilled manpower. “The role of digital technology is indispensable in ensuring quality education and expanding access,” he said, noting that the new strategy enables students to continue their education and attend lessons regardless of their location. He added that Digital Ethiopia 2030 is designed to integrate access with quality, allowing citizens to benefit from digital tools throughout their educational journey. The state minister also underscored the government’s plan to strengthen linkages between higher education institutions and industries to ensure students gain practice-oriented knowledge and skills. According to him, research conducted on digitalization will be applied practically to support the education sector in fulfilling its national responsibility. Building on the success of its predecessor, Ethiopia has officially transitioned into its next phase of technological development with the launch of the Digital 2030 Strategy. Launched by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in October 2025, Digital Ethiopia 2030 aims to deepen public service efficiency through advanced automation and smarter infrastructure. Currently operational across 24 federal branches, the government plans to scale these innovations to regional courts to ensure a faster, more transparent justice system nationwide, ENA learnt.

January 4, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia is finalizing wide-ranging preparations to welcome both international and domestic tourists for the upcoming celebrations of Ethiopian Christmas (Genna) and Epiphany (Timket), according to the Ministry of Tourism. The preparations form part of a broader government strategy to position tourism as a key driver of economic growth and international engagement. Speaking to the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), Samuel Hailu, CEO of Tourism Development Infrastructure at the ministry, said comprehensive measures have been put in place to ensure quality services and a smooth experience for visitors. “Multifaceted preparations are underway to provide effective and hospitable services during these iconic festivals,” Samuel noted, adding that the ministry has conducted orientations for tour operators, hotel owners, and transport providers. While Genna and Timket are celebrated nationwide, the historic cities of Lalibela and Gondar remain the main attractions for international tourists. Lalibela, home to the UNESCO-listed rock-hewn churches, will host Genna celebrations on January 7. The city is regarded as the spiritual heart of the festival, as thousands of white-robed worshippers gather for overnight prayers in a deeply moving religious atmosphere. Gondar will take center stage on January 19 for Timket celebrations. Known for its 17th-century royal castles, the city hosts vibrant ceremonies marked by colorful processions to Fasilides’ Bath, where the reenactment of the baptism of Christ draws visitors from around the world. Ethiopian Epiphany is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, further enhancing the country’s global cultural profile. Beyond religious tourism, the government has expanded efforts to develop new tourism destinations aimed at unlocking Ethiopia’s vast natural and cultural potential. On the northern shores of Lake Tana, Gorgora has emerged as a new destination for history and nature enthusiasts. The recently inaugurated Gorgora Eco Resort offers opportunities for birdwatching, water sports, and exploration of the ruins of Emperor Susenyos’ Palace. Wonchi, centered around a scenic volcanic crater lake, has become a premier ecotourism destination. Visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, boat trips to the Wenchi Chirkos island monastery, as well as natural hot springs and waterfalls. In southern Ethiopia, Koysha is part of an integrated development project near Chebera Churchura National Park, renowned for its large populations of elephants and buffaloes. The Koysha Hydroelectric Project is expected to create a massive reservoir that will support future water-based recreation and cruise tourism. In Addis Ababa, tourists can combine religious festivities with modern attractions such as Unity Park, Entoto Park, the Science Museum, and the National Palace Museum. To support visitors, the Ministry of Tourism has launched the “Visit Ethiopia” website, offering destination information and event schedules. Samuel said the festive preparations align with national transformation initiatives such as Gebeta Le Sheger and Gebeta Le Hager, which have rehabilitated historic sites and opened new regions to international tourism standards. Private sector operators have also welcomed the government’s efforts. Yitayew Tariku, General Manager of Tulight Tour Company, told ENA that improved incentives and a favorable policy environment have encouraged greater private investment in tourism. “The conditions created by the government motivated us to enter the sector and actively promote Ethiopia’s diverse attractions,” he said. Reports also indicate that Ethiopia is increasingly positioning itself as a destination for conference and business tourism. According to Samuel, the upcoming Genna and Timket celebrations will serve as a showcase of the country’s renewed commitment to world-class hospitality and global competitiveness.

Addis Ababa, January 4, 2026--Ethiopia has taken a major step toward strengthening its humanitarian self-reliance with the first meeting of the newly restructured Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Council, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh said. The Deputy Prime Minister presided over the inaugural meeting of the reformed Council, which brings together religious institutions, community associations, civil society organizations, the private sector, and government bodies under a single, inclusive framework. “We are at a pivotal moment in securing Ethiopia’s humanitarian self-reliance,” Temesgen said. “The newly restructured Council represents the full breadth of our society and will play a vital role in building a humanitarian system that stands on its own feet and serves people with dignity.” According to the Deputy Prime Minister, the Council’s inclusive structure is designed to reflect Ethiopia’s social diversity and strengthen disaster preparedness and response through collaboration, early action, and strong institutional capacity. Guided by an updated policy framework, a strengthened legal proclamation, and a revitalized Disaster Response Fund, the Council aims to reduce avoidable loss and suffering by mobilizing public resources more effectively and responding to crises before they escalate. Participants emphasized that lasting solutions to humanitarian challenges require sustainable institutional capacity rather than dependence on external assistance. Temesgen noted that since the summer of 2016 E.C., the government has pursued comprehensive reforms—guided by clear national roadmaps—to shift from dependency to productivity, adding that tangible results are now becoming visible. Key government priorities include establishing a reliable and sustainable Disaster Response Fund, organizing strategic emergency stockpiles at both federal and regional levels, and ensuring that displaced citizens are durably resettled and supported to rebuild productive livelihoods. The meeting also reaffirmed Ethiopia’s long-standing tradition of mutual support and collective responsibility, with a renewed commitment to strengthening community-based resilience across all regions. While acknowledging the challenges ahead, participants stressed that the journey toward humanitarian self-reliance will be guided by knowledge, wise leadership, and the unifying principle of Medemer. With a shared sense of purpose, Council members committed to working together to build a nation capable of meeting its humanitarian needs with confidence, compassion, and self-reliance.

January 2, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia has reaffirmed its commitment to Pan-African solidarity and people-to-people diplomacy by expanding regional scholarship opportunities for students from neighboring African countries. The announcement was made during a New Year welcoming ceremony at Bahir Dar University for newly arrived international students, according to Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Speaking at the event, Ambassador Nebiyu Tedla, Director General of the Public Diplomacy Directorate General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said Ethiopia’s continued provision of full scholarships represents a strategic investment in regional cooperation, human capital development, and long-term stability. Ambassador Nebiyu emphasized that education remains a central pillar of Ethiopia’s foreign policy, serving as a powerful tool for fostering regional integration, mutual understanding, and shared prosperity across Africa. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with Bahir Dar University and other higher learning institutions by aligning support with national and regional priorities. This includes facilitating academic partnerships, student and faculty exchanges, and international research cooperation to enhance teaching quality and global engagement. The ceremony featured cultural performances by students from Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, Somalia, and Tanzania, showcasing the diversity and unity of the African continent. Bahir Dar University President, Dr. Mengesha Ayene, reiterated the university’s commitment to delivering quality education and providing a supportive academic environment for international students. Scholarship beneficiaries from across Africa expressed their appreciation to the Government of Ethiopia and Bahir Dar University for the opportunity to pursue higher education, while also thanking the Ethiopian people for their hospitality and warm welcome. Currently, more than 130 African students are enrolled at Bahir Dar University under regional scholarship programs, underscoring Ethiopia’s enduring role as a hub for Pan-African cooperation and shared development.

January 2, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized the vital role of higher education institutions in Ethiopia’s path to prosperity, noting that his new book series, “The Medemer State,” underscores this commitment. Speaking on the 75th anniversary of Addis Ababa University, where he also graduated, PM Abiy delivered a guest lecture titled: “The Role of Intellectuals in National Prosperity.” The lecture drew leading academic figures and senior government officials, wrapping up weeks of commemorative events. In his address, the Prime Minister offered a vision of the modern intellectual as a thoughtful agent of societal change, valuing reflection over reaction. “Ideas are the power of change, and intellectuals are agents of change. The change they bring within society leads a country toward prosperity,” he said in a social media post. He urged intellectuals to respect and nurture ideas, think critically, read widely, solve problems, and actively seek solutions. “Today, as Addis Ababa University celebrates its 75th anniversary, I am honored to engage with students and faculty on the role of Ethiopian intellectuals in addressing national challenges,” he added. PM Abiy also highlighted that higher education institutions should integrate teaching, research, and technology to generate innovation with practical applications. “The Medemer State firmly believes that these institutions are indispensable to Ethiopia’s journey toward prosperity, and we are committed to making this vision a reality,” he said. According to the Prime Minister, leveraging the combined capacity of Ethiopia’s universities is key to accelerating the nation’s development and ensuring long-term prosperity.

January 2, 2026 (ENA)—On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of Addis Ababa University, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, an alumnus of the university, has delivered a guest lecture titled “The Role of Intellectuals in National Prosperity.” The lecture was attended by esteemed academic leaders and senior government officials, concluding a series of high-level commemorative events held over the past weeks. Addressing the academic community, Prime Minister Abiy offered a nuanced vision of the modern intellectual, emphasizing thoughtfulness over reaction. In a social media post reflecting on the lecture, the Prime Minister wrote: "An intellectual is not one who is emotionally charged. The characteristics of an intellectual include being respectful of ideas and a lover of knowledge; a deep thinker and persistent questioner; an avid reader and alert analyst; and ultimately, a problem-solver and seeker of solutions." Established in 1950 as the University College of Addis Ababa, the university has grown into Ethiopia’s premier higher education institution, serving as a hub for intellectual debate and social transformation for over seven decades. Prime Minister Abiy expressed optimism about the current generation of learners, noting the evolution of Ethiopian intellectual engagement.   “I see this generation in a new light. They give me hope. Many are exceptionally bright, and their level of understanding is markedly different from that of previous generations,” he stated. The lecture highlighted Addis Ababa University’s enduring legacy in teaching, research, and public service, while inspiring the new generation of scholars to harness their intellect for national progress.

January 1, 2026 (ENA)—The Government of Ethiopia is prioritizing the reinforcement of transitional justice and a national dialogue to address human rights violations and build consensus on the country’s most fundamental national issues, Justice Minister Hanna Araya Selassie said today. Responding to queries from lawmakers at the House of People's Representatives, the Minister outlined the national dialogue process and transitional justice mechanisms as two key pathways to lasting peace. "The government has extended repeated invitations to forces operating in conflict zones, encouraging them to resolve their political differences through peaceful discussions," she explained. According to her, the efforts are proving effective as many factions are now coming forward to engage constructively. The Minister emphasized on how these initiatives prioritize healing for communities scarred by human rights violations. "To ensure that the justice system becomes firmly established and operates effectively, the government is nurturing a strong national dialogue while implementing transitional justice." This process is vital for creating an environment where justice thrives, healing past wounds, and paving the way for a society where all can coexist harmoniously, Hanna elaborated. The Minister underscored the government’s commitment to reconciliation and long-term stability, promoting open discussions and accountability. Ethiopia addresses past grievances while amplifying diverse voices, all aligned with constitutional principles. "Our ongoing efforts to align emerging legal frameworks with the constitution will be strengthened further, upholding justice and fairness to build citizen trust and a brighter future," she stated. Repressive laws have been amended or replaced to align with the Constitution, safeguarding democratic and human rights. “The Ministry of Justice works closely with the House to ensure proclamations, regulations, and directives meet these standards and regional bodies receive enhanced support for effective law implementation.” Besides new laws, the Minister pointed out how fast the justice system is adopting digital technology that aims to enable individuals to monitor their legal cases online. She also pointed out that cyber-crime is a global problem, but stressed Ethiopia's commitment to developing a safe digital environment that supports free expression while also respecting people's rights.

Addis Ababa, December 31, 2025 (ENA) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has extended New Year greetings to the international community as the world prepares to welcome 2026. In a message shared on social media, the Prime Minister wished friends and partners across the globe a Happy New Year, noting the shared hope for peace and cooperation in the year ahead. He also highlighted Ethiopia’s unique calendar with a lighthearted remark. “Wishing all our friends and partners a Happy New Year as the global community rings in 2026!, the Premier said, adding that “Remember, you’re 8 years younger though when you #VisitEthiopia.” Most of the global community is going to today receive its New Year, 1 January, 2026.

Addis Ababa, December 31, 2025 (ENA)—Addis Ababa University (AAU) has reaffirmed its commitment to attaining international competitiveness while serving as a central driver of Ethiopia’s national development. The remarks came during senior university officials' addresses at the institution’s 75th Diamond Jubilee celebrations. “AAU is working to become internationally competent and to act as an active catalyst for national development,” said Matiwos Ensermu, Head of the University President’s Office, during anniversary events held in the capital. The university marked its 75th anniversary with a vibrant three-hour outdoor celebration stretching from Arat Kilo to Sidist Kilo. The event featured music, song, and theatrical performances tracing AAU’s historical journey since its founding. Throughout the festivities, speakers acknowledged the pivotal role former students have played in shaping Ethiopian politics and navigating major national transitions. Looking ahead, Matiwos noted that the university is laying the groundwork to reach its 100th anniversary as a globally competitive institution distinguished by research excellence. “Our vision is to reach our centenary standing shoulder to shoulder with the leading institutions worldwide,” he said. Since its inception, AAU has graduated approximately 300,000 students who have been instrumental in expanding education and supporting the establishment of other universities across Ethiopia. Today, the university operates eight colleges, spanning business, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering, alongside seven specialized research centers in fields such as technology, medicine, and agriculture. In a press briefing held on November 18, 2025, AAU President Samuel Kifle highlighted the importance of leveraging the university’s legacy as it implements a landmark 24-month autonomy reform. “AAU’s history is inseparable from the history of higher education in Ethiopia,” Dr. Samuel said, noting the university’s leadership in teacher development and national capacity building through its expanded postgraduate programs. The President announced that the Diamond Jubilee would be commemorated through a series of sports festivals, academic seminars, panel discussions, and a "Partners’ Day" aimed at strengthening stakeholder collaboration. With the experience gained over seven and half decades, AAU today boasts more than 170 full professors and a teaching referral hospital that trains over 10,000 postgraduate students while serving nearly one million citizens annually, the president stated.

Addis Ababa, December 31, 2025 (ENA)— The Ministry of health has affirmed that Ethiopia is aggressively modernizing its medical facilities to ensure every hospital in the country provides fully digitalized services by 2030. In his exclusive interview with ENA, State Minister of Health Dereje Duguma highlighted that the initiative aligns with the "Digital Ethiopia 2030" strategy, a roadmap designed to modernize national infrastructure and social services. The state minister further noted that the Ministry of Health is a frontrunner in technology adoption, consistently upgrading facilities with the hardware and software required to transition away from manual systems. Building on Ethiopia’s success in meeting Sustainable Development Goals, specifically in reducing maternal and infant mortality, the move toward digitalization aims to enhance efficiency and data accuracy, he added. Dereje stated that by the end of the decade, the majority of health institutions will have migrated to digital platforms, with the ultimate goal of achieving a completely paperless environment. This transformation extends from grassroots health extension professionals at the Kebele level to specialized care, he said. According to him, once fully implemented, the interconnected ecosystem will allow citizens to access medical consultations from home, use digital appointment systems to reduce wait times, and benefit from centralized patient records accessible across various facilities. Furthermore, the state minister emphasized that the strategy includes digital monitoring systems for healthcare providers to maintain high standards of care and accountability. To support this ambitious shift, the Ministry confirmed that essential digital infrastructure and equipment are currently being imported and distributed across the nation. Dereje further said that this transition is a fundamental step toward making healthcare more accessible, transparent, and patient-centered for all Ethiopians, capturing the essence of a modern, prosperous nation.

Addis Ababa, December 25, 2025 (ENA)—The “Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF)” has continued its long-standing practice of instrumentalizing famine for political gains, Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commissioner Shiferaw Teklemariam revealed today. In an exclusive interview with the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), the Commissioner stated that the “TPLF” is spreading false claims that displaced people in Tigray Region have been denied assistance. This tactic reflects a familiar pattern of the group’s history of politicizing humanitarian crises, he added. Most notably, Shiferaw provided historical context on how the illegal group, “TPLF” repeatedly invoked famine narratives to advance political objectives. According to the Commissioner, politicization of hunger in northern Ethiopia has deep historical roots dating back to the 1970s and 1980s when famine was used by “TPLF” not as a humanitarian concern but a political instrument to advance the armed struggle against the Derg. During that period, humanitarian suffering was deliberately framed to mobilize international sympathy, attract aid, and strengthen insurgent legitimacy, with relief delivery often intertwined with political and military structures. The recent claims about the "hunger" in Hitsatse temporary shelter in Asgede Woreda follow a familiar pattern, with “TPLF”-aligned outlets, diaspora blogs, and social media portraying abandonment and hunger using emotive images and unverified reports of deaths. Shiferaw elaborated that assistance has been provided in accordance with universal standards across all Ethiopian communities. In line with this, each needy citizen receives 15 kilograms of grain, 1.5 kilograms of pulses, and 0.45 kilograms of cooking oil per month —totaling 16.9 kilograms per person, multiplied by the number of family members. Accordingly, a total of 2 million quintals of humanitarian aid valued at 32 billion Birr was distributed in Tigray region from January to December 2025. Citing these, the Commissioner rebuked the Regional Interim Administration and the “TPLF” for their shameful acts that betray the people and shift the blame. While humanitarian aid continues to reach the region without interruption, Shiferaw expressed serious skepticism about whether it is being used solely for the intended purpose. He therefore called for an immediate investigation into the 32 billion Birr worth humanitarian aid supplies sent to the region in order to determine how they were used. "In this context, I urge the Federal Government and all humanitarian stakeholders to ask: ‘Where did the 2 million quintals and the 32 billion Birr (sent in 2025) go? What happened to these resources?’ These questions must be raised to uncover the truth and end the ongoing confusion," the Commissioner stressed. He also called on the international community to be cautious of the illegal “TPLF” group, warning them against its pattern of exploiting hunger for cheap political gains and capturing international attention. After losing federal power in 2018, the “TPLF” increasingly shifted its strategy outward, from domestic political arenas to international advocacy spaces, many observers say. The recent allegations surrounding the Hitsatse temporary shelter follow this established pattern, Shiferaw underlined. ENA has observed that social media posts, diaspora-oriented blogs, and “TPLF”-aligned outlets portray the situation as one of abandonment, starvation, and diminishing assistance, often accompanied by emotive imagery, emergency appeals, and claims of deaths from hunger and malnutrition. The Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commissioner has vehemently rejected the claims, stating that humanitarian food assistance at Hitsatse and other shelters has been complete and uninterrupted. Food distribution has continued throughout the year, with regular assistance provided consistently.

Addis Ababa, December 25, 2025 (ENA)—The Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission (EDRMC) said the government is prioritizing uninterrupted humanitarian food assistance for citizens living in temporary shelters. The commission has also firmly rejected what it described as false social media claims that displaced people are being left without support. In its statement sent to ENA, EDRMC said internally displaced persons in the North West Zone of the Tigray Region, specifically in Asgede Woreda at the Hitsats temporary shelter, are receiving “complete and uninterrupted humanitarian food assistance.” Claims that displaced citizens in the Hitsats temporary shelter are not receiving food assistance are inaccurate and do not reflect the reality on the ground,” the Commission said. According to the Commission, food distribution to citizens in need has been carried out continuously throughout the year. The statement further noted that residents of the Hitsats temporary shelter have been receiving regular assistance from September to December 2018 without interruption. The statement indicated that 14,413 displaced citizens have been receiving assistance at the shelter over the past four months, it stated, adding that in September alone, 16,775 people, including beneficiaries from neighboring shelters, were provided with food assistance. This figure stood at 18,290 in October, 17,813 in November, and 14,413 in December. The Commission reported that a total of 11,406 quintals of food, including wheat, sorghum, pulses and cooking oil, were distributed during the four-month period. The overall support is valued at more than 257 million Birr, the Commission noted. The Commission also noted that humanitarian assistance challenges persist under the region’s interim administration and it said the federal government stands ready to extend additional support upon request. In its statement, the Commission stressed that ensuring aid reaches displaced communities as intended is the responsibility of the regional interim administration and local authorities. It added that they are also tasked with identifying and addressing any gaps in distribution should be addressed at regional and local levels.

Addis Ababa, December 25, 2025 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed extended Merry Christmas wish to international friends and the global family. In a message posted on X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister wrote: "Merry Christmas to our global family. A season that reminds us: kindness travels farther than borders, and hope is something we build together."

Addis Ababa, December 23, 2025—Ethiopia and the United States have signed a 1.6-billion USD five-year Health Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today. The agreement was signed between Finance Minister Ahmed Shide, Health Minister Dr. Mekdes Daba, and the United States Ambassador to Ethiopia, Ervin Massinga. Under the agreement, the United States Government, committed up to 1.016 billion USD grant financing and 150 million USD additional grant based on performance, to be channeled through the government system for supporting Ethiopia’s national health priorities over the coming years. The Government of Ethiopia, in turn, will allocate additional 450 million USD in co-financing, policy leadership, and effective implementation to ensure sustainability, accountability, and measurable impact. Speaking on the occasion, Finance Minister Ahmed Shide said the MoU sends a strong political signal of trust and confidence between the two governments, reaffirming continued collaboration despite a rapidly changing global environment. He added that the agreement, reflects a shared commitment to addressing cross-border public health challenges and recognizes health security as a pillar of national, regional, and global stability. The Minister also emphasized Ethiopia’s commitment to effective resource utilization, strong public financial management, transparency, and data-driven decision-making, noting that all resources under the agreement will be integrated into national planning frameworks. Health Minister Dr. Mekdes Daba said the financing will support priority interventions in disease prevention and control, public health surveillance, laboratory systems, health workforce development, and emergency preparedness and response. She explained that the MoU emphasizes sustainable development, joint financing, and measures to make Ethiopia’s health services more resilient and effective. The partnership will focus on critical areas, including HIV and AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, maternal and child health, polio eradication, and preparedness for infectious disease outbreaks. The United States Ambassador to Ethiopia, Ervin Massinga, described the agreement as a strong example of sustainable development, co-investment, and mutual accountability. “This partnership brings together government, the private sector, and faith-based organizations, recognizing the vital role each plays in delivering health services to all Ethiopians,” he said. The Ambassador reaffirmed the US commitment to strengthening health information systems, streamlining supply chains, and supporting the digitalization of health data systems to ensure that Ethiopia’s health sector is resilient and responsive. “Together, we have reduced maternal and child mortality, fought infectious diseases, and built a foundation for a stronger, more comprehensive health system,” Ambassador Massinga pointed out. The MoU is expected to serve as a platform for deeper cooperation over the next five years, reinforcing Ethiopia’s efforts to build a resilient health system and safeguard public health at national level.

Addis Ababa, December 22, 2025 (ENA) — The Ministry of Education has announced the establishment of a national framework designed to consolidate Ethiopia’s vast indigenous knowledge into a central repository for developmental and policy input.     Recognizing the multifaceted value of local wisdom for national prosperity and identity building, the government is prioritizing the preservation of these heritage assets to ensure they serve as vital inputs for modern development. Despite Ethiopia’s wealth of generational knowledge, much of it has remained untapped due to a lack of organized, national-level documentation. To bridge this gap, the Ministry of Education is currently conducting specialized training for higher education institutions. The program focuses on methodologies for identifying and documenting traditional wisdom unique to their respective regions. During the opening of the training, State Minister of Education Kora Tushne stated that the newly established system will integrate scattered indigenous insights into the education system, academic research, and policy formulation. He noted that this initiative will significantly bolster the nation's capacity to address local challenges with home-grown solutions. Selam Alemu, head of the Community Engagement and Indigenous Knowledge Desk at the Ministry, added that beyond mere documentation, efforts are underway to incorporate these findings directly into the national curriculum.     Highlighting the untapped potential across various sectors, Mirgisa Kaba, a researcher at Addis Ababa University’s School of Public Health, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to ensure this knowledge informs policy directions and broader development goals.     University coordinators are already seeing progress on the ground. Amare Ayalew, coordinator of the Ankober Plant and Indigenous Knowledge Development Center at Debre Berhan University, and Yasmin Mohammed from Haramaya University’s Indigenous Knowledge Center, shared details on ongoing work to gather and digitize local wisdom. They all expressed confidence that organizing these efforts at a national level will ensure more impactful and sustainable results.

Addis Ababa, December 21, 2025 (ENA) — Patrick Okumu Abok, Team Leader for Emergency Preparedness and Response at the World Health Organization (WHO) in Ethiopia, commended the country’s ongoing efforts to build resilient healthcare systems and protect vulnerable populations during crises. Speaking to ENA, Abok highlighted Ethiopia’s commitment to refugee welfare, vaccination programs, and community health initiatives. “The WHO has been present in Ethiopia for 75 years, working closely with the government to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals,” he said. Abok outlined WHO’s partnership with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to develop strong, inclusive healthcare systems that provide equitable access for all. He emphasized the organization’s focus on delivering essential and emergency healthcare, supplying medicines and medical equipment, and offering technical expertise, particularly in crises intensified by climate-related events such as droughts and floods. The WHO official also praised Ethiopia’s open-door approach toward refugees from neighboring countries. “The nation provides registration, healthcare, education, and programs to support self-sufficiency,” he noted, highlighting Ethiopia’s adherence to international conventions. He further recognized the government’s leadership in upgrading health facilities and maintaining services in remote and crisis-affected areas. “We’re working to strengthen delivery systems so essential medicines and supplies reach everyone, including internally displaced persons and refugees,” Abok said. On immunization, he reaffirmed the government’s commitment: “No child should go without immunization,” pointing to collaborative vaccination campaigns with regional health teams led by the Ministry of Health. Abok also lauded Ethiopia’s extensive community health worker program. “Engaging communities and local governments is critical for building resilience. The Ethiopian government’s dedication to prioritizing community health, particularly in emergency-hit areas, is highly commendable.” As Ethiopia continues to navigate complex humanitarian challenges, WHO’s recognition underscores its position as a regional leader in healthcare.

Addis Ababa, December 20, 2025 (ENA) —A PhD Mobility Program, which offers PhDs to more than 1,000 Ethiopian scholars in India or in joint supervision with Indian mentors in the coming five years, was launched today. The Ethio-Indian Mobility Program for Advancement of Graduate Education and Research aims to further elevate research, technology and innovation cooperation by the higher educational institutions of Ethiopia and India. Addressing the occasion, Education State Minister Kora Tushune commended the two counties' growing partnership both at the bilateral and multilateral stages, noting the significance of their strong cooperation in BRICS and South-South collaboration. The Ethio-India PhD Mobility Program is a growing initiative for joint research, offering Ethiopian scholars PhDs in India or joint supervision with Indian mentors, focusing on academic exchange and capacity building in areas like tech, he added. For the state minister, the program that takes from one-year to a year and a half will enable to conduct world-class research as the program is essential to boost capacity building and innovation that supports research programs. He revealed that 1,000 to 1,200 mobility PhD students are expected to benefit from the initiative through the support of Ethiopian and Indian professors, and top tier Indian institutions supported with advanced technology. Noting the capacity of the high-profile Indian institutions, the state minister pointed out that the program will be commenced by 8 Indian ITs (Indian Institutes of Technology). Professor Krishnaraj Ramaswamy, Ethio-India Joint PhD Program coordinator, said for his part that Ethiopia is emerging as a leading country in technology, especially in AI and startups. Ethiopia's technology transformation and digitalization efforts have indeed accelerated in recent years, significantly supported by the Digital Ethiopia 2025 strategy. This national initiative aims to leverage digital opportunities to drive economic growth, improve public services, and create jobs across various sectors. “So, this strategic partnership is integrated with India and Ethiopia to enhance the bilateral relations in agriculture, sustainable technology, clean energy as well as education and mining.” This relationship is giving a new shape to the world under the BRICS partnership, Professor Ramaswamy affirmed. Ethio-India IIT programs involve strong academic collaborations, partnering with Ethiopia's Ministry of Education for joint PhDs with co-supervision and exchange. In his first-ever landmark visit to Ethiopia this week, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored that education is the foundation of any nation; and India takes pride in the fact that the greatest contribution to India-Ethiopia relations has come from our teachers. “The future belongs to partnerships built on vision and trust. We wish to advance such cooperation with Ethiopia, a cooperation that addresses global challenges and also creates new opportunities,” PM Modi underscored. Ethio-India educational cooperation has been crucial for Ethiopia, with Indian teachers forming the backbone of its modern education system for decades, significantly training generations of professionals.

Addis Ababa, December 19, 2025 (ENA) —The UN General Assembly has elected former Iraqi President Barham Ahmed Salih as the next United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. He will begin a five-year term on January 1, 2026. Salih becomes the first leader from the Middle East to head the UN refugee agency in more than 75 years. UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the decision and thanked outgoing High Commissioner Filippo Grandi for his long service supporting refugees and displaced people worldwide. Salih brings decades of political and diplomatic experience, having played a key role in Iraq’s reconstruction after 2003 and working closely with international organizations such as the United Nations and the World Bank. Grandi praised Salih’s appointment, noting that his background and personal understanding of conflict and displacement prepare him well to lead UNHCR during a time of growing global refugee crises.

Addis Ababa, December 18, 2025 (ENA) —The Ministry of Health has announced a remarkable transformation in Ethiopia's healthcare infrastructure, with the country expanding from just three oxygen centers to 85 operational facilities nationwide over the past five years. This milestone was highlighted during a national consultative workshop in Assosa, bringing together Ministry of Health officials, regional health bureau deputy heads, hospital administrators, and key stakeholders to assess progress in Ethiopia's medical infrastructure development.     Speaking at the event, State Minister Frehiwot Abebe said the five-year expansion represents a dramatic shift in healthcare accessibility. She emphasized that previously, patients often traveled hundreds of kilometers for oxygen therapy, but the new network of facilities has brought life-saving treatment closer to communities across the country. "This expansion has notably reduced mortality rates previously attributed to oxygen shortages," Abebe said, adding that the National Health Administration and Control Proclamation has been crucial in protecting lives while ensuring equitable distribution of high-quality medical services. To ensure these facilities maintain international standards, the Ministry has invested heavily in professional development, including sponsoring advanced training programs and international placements for medical staff. Wolteji Begalo, Head of the Benishangul-Gumuz Regional Health Bureau, illustrated the transformation's impact at the local level. He explained that his region previously spent over 500,000 Birr annually importing oxygen from distant suppliers, creating both financial strain and logistical challenges.   The situation changed dramatically with last year's establishment of an oxygen production plant at Assosa Hospital. This facility now serves as the regional hub, supplying oxygen to neighboring health institutions and ensuring rapid response times for critical cases. The consultative workshop continues as officials work to refine strategies for Ethiopia's ongoing healthcare development.