Addis Ababa, January 10, 2026 (ENA)—A robust health regulation system has been established in Ethiopia to enhance safety, quality, and efficiency in the provision of food, medicine, and health services, Health State Minister Frehiwot Abebe said today. Speaking at the opening of an advocacy forum titled “Stronger Health Regulation for a Resilient Health System”, she added that Ethiopia's health policy is primarily focused on ensuring health and safety for citizens, reflecting a significant shift in national health status. According to her, the country's health policy aims to guarantee the quality and safety of healthcare services, enhance domestic product quality, and improve global competitiveness. The nation has increased domestically produced drug supply coverage from 8 percent to 60 percent over the past two years alone, Frehiwot stated. The state minister elaborated that robust health regulation improves not only domestic medicines and medical equipment, but also saves foreign exchange. Moreover, a strong health regulation system would create opportunities for Ethiopia to benefit from medical tourism. Therefore, the ministry has been preparing a medical tourism strategy to exploit the untapped potential of the sector. She further underscored the need for strengthening health regulation of the country to build a more resilient health system in the country. Finally, the state minister emphasized the importance of enhancing institutional coordination and improving digital infrastructure accessible to all health facilities.

Addis Ababa, January 9, 2026 (ENA)— The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has praised Ethiopia for its sustained leadership in managing one of Africa’s largest refugee and internal displacement situations despite mounting global humanitarian pressures and declining funding. In an exclusive interview with the Ethiopian News Agency, UNHCR Representative Aissatou M. Ndiaye said Ethiopia continues to demonstrate strong political commitment at a time when conflicts are increasing worldwide and humanitarian resources are shrinking. According to Ndiaye, Ethiopia is currently hosting more than one million refugees and asylum seekers, mainly from Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, and Eritrea. She added that the country is also supporting internally displaced persons affected by localized conflicts and the impacts of climate change. The representative highlighted Ethiopia’s institutional capacity, citing the Refugees and Returnees Service as a central pillar of the national response system. She said the institution plays a key role in coordinating protection, humanitarian assistance, and long-term solutions for displaced populations. Ethiopia has kept its borders open and maintained an inclusive asylum policy, which has remained exemplary in the region. She noted that women and children constitute the majority of displaced populations, stressing the urgent need for increased international support to meet basic needs and safeguard social stability. Ndiaye said UNHCR works closely with the Ethiopian government, regional administrations, and host communities to ensure an effective and coordinated response. “Our collaboration is a strategic partnership built on trust, shared responsibility, and a common vision focused on sustainable solutions,” she underscored. Ethiopia’s response, she explained, focuses on protection and shelter, emergency assistance, sustainable solutions, and strengthening community resilience. In parallel, UNHCR in Ethiopia provides safe and dignified shelter, distributes essential household items, supports camp management, and promotes self-reliance. She further emphasized that strengthening national capacity and promoting long term integration are critical to ensuring that both displaced populations and host communities benefit. An integrated approach is essential to ensure that no one is left behind, Ndiaye said.

Addis Ababa, January 9, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia has made notable progress in lowering maternal and infant mortality through sustained policy efforts and long-term investments in the health sector, the Ministry of Health announced. Marking Healthy Motherhood Month this January, Minister of Health Dr. Mekdes Daba highlighted a significant increase in the number of women giving birth at health facilities, attributing this to improved access and growing public trust in the health system. This year marks the 39th global observance and the 20th in Ethiopia of Healthy Motherhood Month, themed “Innovative and Sustainable Financing for Healthy Motherhood.” The Ministry officially launched the 20th nationwide Safe Motherhood Month under the same theme, reaffirming Ethiopia’s commitment to protecting mothers and newborns. “The expansion of maternal health services and strengthening of delivery care are producing encouraging results,” Dr. Mekdes said. She pointed out that the introduction and scale-up of surgical services at health institutions have been crucial to better maternal outcomes, and prenatal care coverage has steadily increased nationwide alongside improved access to facilities. The minister also emphasized the vital role of voluntary blood donors in preventing postpartum hemorrhage, a leading cause of maternal deaths. “The rising number of voluntary blood donors has been instrumental in saving mothers’ lives,” she said. While acknowledging the progress, Dr. Mekdes stressed the importance of continuing efforts, underscoring that innovation and sustainable financing are key to sustaining and accelerating gains in maternal and newborn health. “We will keep working with stakeholders to expand digital health information systems, ensure the availability of medical resources, and scale up surgical services,” she added. Healthy motherhood encompasses the wellbeing of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.     The month-long campaign reflects two decades of advancements in maternal and newborn care, calling for enhanced collaboration, financing, and locally driven solutions to secure the health of every mother and child. Dr. Mekdes noted, “We have achieved remarkable progress in expanding and improving maternal and newborn health services across Ethiopia.” She credited sustained government investment for these results, adding, “Our efforts to protect mothers and their babies are clearly yielding success.” Currently, over 61 percent of pregnant women safely deliver at health facilities, a milestone attributed to dedicated frontline health workers and strong community engagement. Maternal care before, during, and after childbirth has improved nationally, supported by referral systems that swiftly transfer mothers from health posts to hospitals. Postpartum hemorrhage, once a leading cause of maternal death, has significantly declined due to continuous system improvements. “This year’s theme reflects our firm commitment to reducing maternal and newborn deaths and ensuring access to health care for all,” Dr. Mekdes emphasized. She also reported a sharp drop in maternal mortality over the past two decades, bringing Ethiopia closer to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Highlighting the importance of emergency care, she noted its wide-reaching social and economic benefits. To maintain these gains, the ministry is deploying ambulances nationwide and expanding blood banks in multiple cities. The minister urged investors and partners to support domestic production of medical supplies. “Now is the time for local manufacturers to replace imports with quality products made at home, building resilient health systems that save future generations,” she said. She concluded by affirming that sustainable financing and homegrown solutions remain vital for the country’s continued progress. Safe Motherhood Month stands as a symbol of hope, showing that innovation, partnership, and investment can secure healthier futures for generations to come, she added.

Addis Ababa, January 9, 2026 (ENA)—African diplomats based in Addis Ababa have underscored the importance of credible, Africa-led media platforms in shaping how the continent is represented on the global stage. They stressed that Africa must control its own narrative to counter misrepresentation and accurately project its realities, ambitions, and progress worldwide. The diplomats shared these reflections during a visit to the Pulse of Africa (POA) media studio, serving as a gesture of solidarity with Pan-African media institutions working to strengthen continental narratives. The senior diplomats participated in a networking event designed to foster closer cooperation between African diplomatic missions and the continent’s emerging media outlets. This dialogue centered on the pivotal role media plays in shaping a unified and authentic narrative that reflects Africa’s realities, aspirations, and global ambitions. Participants underscored the need for narrative ownership, ensuring Africa’s story is told by Africans to counter long-standing global misrepresentations. Furthermore, the discussions highlighted the importance of strategic engagement, utilizing media to advance continental goals of peace, prosperity, and sustainable development. Pulse of Africa is a newly launched platform established with the objective of providing an authentic African voice, the outlet operates from a state-of-the-art complex in Addis Ababa, the diplomatic capital of Africa and headquarters of the African Union. Broadcasting in both English and Arabic, the platform seeks to share African perspectives by highlighting achievements and opportunities through a local lens. The platform is also dedicated to fostering regional integration and unity by celebrating shared cultures and histories across the continent. By projecting an accurate image of Africa as a rising industrial powerhouse, the initiative aims to drive investment and attract global partnerships. The diplomats welcomed the initiative, noting that such platforms are vital for ensuring the continent's long-term aspirations are communicated clearly to the world. This engagement marks a significant step in the mission of POA to serve as a hub that informs and empowers the African people while contributing to a polished and professional global presence.

Addis Ababa, January 8, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia is ramping up efforts to strengthen early childhood education, establishing thousands of kindergarten-level schools across the country, Office of the Prime Minister announced. In a social media post today, the office said the initiative is designed to equip young children with the skills and knowledge needed for school and life, while supporting their social, cognitive, and personal development. The program also aims to reach underserved communities, train educators, and create safe, stimulating learning environments, helping to reduce educational inequalities and foster a future workforce of confident, capable learners. “This investment in the earliest years marks a major step toward Ethiopia’s long-term social and economic development,” the office added.

Addis Ababa, January 7, 2026 (ENA)—Orthodox Christians in countries stretching from Ethiopia to Russia are celebrating Christmas today, honoring the birth of Jesus Christ with prayer, worship, and acts of compassion. For millions of believers, January 7—rather than December 25, marks the most significant day of the Christmas season. In Ethiopia, churches are filled with worshippers taking part in traditional religious ceremonies and prayer services. The celebrations extend beyond church walls, as communities come together to share meals, support one another, and assist those in need. Acts of generosity, such as providing food, clothing, and shelter—are central to the observance, reflecting the values of unity, care for the vulnerable, and spiritual renewal. Similar celebrations are taking place across Eastern Europe and the Arab world, including in Syria, Palestine, and Egypt. Families and neighbors gather to strengthen social bonds, while churches commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem through centuries-old traditions. The difference in Christmas dates is not rooted in differing beliefs about when Jesus was born, but in the calendars used by various Christian traditions. Many Orthodox and Eastern Christian churches continue to follow the Julian calendar, introduced by Julius Caesar in 46 BC. This calendar runs 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar, which was adopted by much of the world after its introduction by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582 to correct inaccuracies in measuring the solar year. As a result, December 25 on the Julian calendar falls on January 7 on the modern Gregorian calendar. Today, about 250 to 300 million Christians, primarily Orthodox and Coptic believers—celebrate Christmas on this date, often referred to as Old Christmas Day, according to Al Jazeera. While most of the world’s 2.3 billion Christians observe Christmas on December 25, some countries have adapted their public holidays over time. Ukraine officially shifted its Christmas holiday to December 25 in 2023, though many people still honor January 7.

Addis Ababa, January 7, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, accompanied by First Lady Zinash Tayachew and senior government officials, has officially inaugurated the integrated Tulu Arara Model Village, marking a significant milestone in elevating the rainy season volunteer and charity program to a new level. Speaking at the inauguration, Prime Minister Abiy revealed that the model village covers an area of 7,000 square meters and has been carefully designed to provide comfortable and dignified housing for citizens. Each housing unit has been constructed to standard and consists of five rooms, including two bedrooms. According to the Prime Minister, the village is designed to accommodate 150 citizens at the household level. “The village was developed with full infrastructure support, including internal roads, electricity and solar power supply, a physical fitness and recreation area, and green development initiatives,” Prime Minister Abiy shared on his social media channels. To ensure the long-term improvement of residents’ living standards, the village has adopted an integrated development approach that links production with market value chains. The initiative combines dairy cattle and poultry farming with backyard gardening, while an integrated commercial chain has been established to connect production directly to market outlets, creating sustainable income opportunities for residents. The Tulu Arara Model Village stands as a demonstration of integrated, community-centered development aimed at improving livelihoods and promoting self-sufficiency.

Addis Ababa, January 7, 2026 (ENA)—Christians across Ethiopia are marking Christmas with prayers, worship services, and acts of generosity that highlight compassion, unity, and care for the vulnerable. The celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ is taking place through church gatherings, traditional religious ceremonies, and community-based support initiatives. Across the country, families and neighbors are coming together to share meals and strengthen social ties, while extending assistance to people facing shortages of food, clothing, and shelter. The holiday is being observed as a time of spiritual reflection, mutual support, and renewed commitment to helping those in need. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, in his Christmas message, described the occasion as a season of renewal and hope. The Premier stated that this year’s celebration comes with faith that the “promised word” of peace and the “light of change” are beginning to emerge. Prime Minister Abiy further noted that Ethiopia is moving away from a period of hardship toward national renewal, despite ongoing challenges. Drawing a comparison between the birth of Christ and the nation’s journey, he emphasized that a great history holds little value if the present remains divided. He cautioned that many great civilizations faded because they failed to remain relevant in their own time, urging the current generation to restore Ethiopia’s legacy through hard work and by overcoming poverty and underdevelopment. PM Abiy stressed that progress will come not through wishes, but through collective effort and action. Religious leaders also delivered Christmas messages, encouraging believers to dedicate the day to prayer for lasting peace and to express their faith through practical support for the needy. Leaders of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, the Ethiopian Catholic Church, and the Ethiopian Council of Gospel Believers’ Churches extended Christmas greetings to Christians nationwide, emphasizing compassion, solidarity, and mutual care as central values of the celebration. His Holiness Abune Mathias, Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, described Christmas as a “practical expression of God’s profound love for humanity.” He called on believers to combine prayer and thanksgiving with tangible assistance for those lacking basic necessities and to support initiatives that promote sustainable livelihoods. Cardinal Berhaneyesus Souraphiel of the Ethiopian Catholic Church highlighted the importance of reaching out to the sick, the elderly, and the helpless during the holiday, urging Christians to share what they have as a true reflection of the meaning of Christ’s birth.

  Addis Ababa, January 7, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and First Lady Zinash Tayachew marked the celebration of Ethiopian Christmas (Genna) by sharing a holiday meal with students of the Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak School for the Blind. The occasion brought together the Prime Minister, the First Lady, and students in a warm and meaningful gathering that reflected the spirit of compassion, unity, and generosity associated with Genna. Sharing his reflections on social media, Prime Minister Abiy said the experience was deeply moving. “On the blessed occasion of Ethiopian Christmas (Genna), First Lady Zinash Tayachew and I were honored to share a holiday meal with the students of the Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak School for the Blind. Spending this special morning together was a powerful reminder of the true meaning of the spirit of Genna,” the Prime Minister wrote.

Addis Ababa, January 6, 2026 (ENA)—Religious leaders in Ethiopia have called on the faithful to observe the birth of Jesus Christ with a spirit of helping and supporting the needy. Ethiopian Christians celebrate Christmas tomorrow on the 7th of January. Leaders of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, the Ethiopian Catholic Church, and the Ethiopian Council of Gospel Believers' Churches have expressed their best wishes to all Christians on the occasion of Ethiopian Christmas. In their messages, the religious leaders stressed the need to celebrate Christmas by supporting the needy and supporting one another. His Holiness Abune Mathias, Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, stated that the holiday is a practical demonstration of God's deep love for humanity. He urged the faithful to celebrate the holiday by supporting the needy alongside prayer and thanksgiving. For the Patriarch, it is necessary to support and assist those who are facing shortages of food, clothing, and shelter due to various reasons. He further stressed the need to provide the necessary support that can help them improve their livelihoods in a sustainable manner. For his part, Ethiopian Catholic Church Cardinal Berhaneyesus Souraphiel stressed the importance of reaching out and assisting those in need while celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. During the celebration of the holiday, Christians should visit the sick, frail and helpless by sharing what they have, the Cardinal emphasized. Ethiopian Council of Gospel Believers' Churches Secretary-General, Reverend Dereje Jemberu expressed his best wishes for Ethiopians and foreigners of Ethiopian origin to have a joyful Christmas holiday. Stating that the birth of Jesus Christ demonstrates God's forgiveness and great love for humanity, he underscored the need to resolve differences through reconciliation to achieve lasting peace as followers of the Churches have no other divine mission than to promote love and peace.

January 6, 2026 (ENA)—As Ethiopians across the country prepare to celebrate the holiday season, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed highlighted the importance of compassion and inclusion by engaging directly with members of the Office of the Prime Minister community. Joined by members of the Council of Ministers, the Prime Minister met with staff who often work behind the scenes, using the occasion to recognize their contributions and service. In keeping with his annual holiday tradition, PM Abiy distributed food supplies and gifts to low-income employees and to orphans under the care and support of the Office. The outreach served both as a gesture of appreciation for workers whose efforts are rarely visible and as a reaffirmation of the government’s commitment to ensuring that children without parental care continue to receive support and protection. The event underscored a broader message that leadership is reflected not only in decision-making, but also in acts of human connection, especially during moments of national celebration.

January 6, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has extended his best wishes to all Ethiopians celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, describing the season as an era of revival. In a message characterized by profound reflection on the nation’s journey, the Prime Minister noted that this year’s Christmas is being celebrated with the conviction that the "promised word" of peace and the "light of change" have begun to manifest. Acknowledging the hardships the country has been facing, he stressed that the era of suffering is being bid farewell to make way for a period of national revival even if challenges may still arise. The PM drew a spiritual parallel between the birth of Christ and the current state of the nation. As the birth of Jesus Christ redeemed the past and secured the future for humanity, Ethiopia's today must be used to validate its glorious history, he stated. "No matter how magnificent our history or heritage may be, they lose their worth if our present is fractured," Abiy noted. He cautioned that civilizations like Babylon and Rome became mere memories because they failed to secure their relevance today. Therefore, he urged the current generation to ensure that Ethiopia's great history is redeemed through modern-day diligence, overcoming poverty and backwardness. Lauding the new generation of Ethiopians that has tasted the bitterness of past mistakes, the PM underscored that the generation possesses the resolve to work diligently and transition the country. According to him, the nation's future standing is certain to improve as more citizens commit to hard work over mere idle wishes. Addressing those who seek to hinder the country's progress, PM Abiy wrote Ethiopia’s prosperity is an idea whose time has come. The government remains preoccupied with works that redeem the future rather than simply waiting for it to arrive, he stressed. Highlighting the diverse reactions to national building—ranging from those who support the truth to those who conspire against it, Abiy declared that those who work with diligence will ultimately prevail. The Prime Minister concluded his message by calling on all Ethiopians to celebrate the holiday by reflecting on their historic responsibility to build a bright future through today’s endeavors. "May Ethiopia live forever, honored and respected through the efforts of her children," he wrote, wishing Christians a joyful and peaceful holiday.

Addis Ababa,January 6,2026 _ The House of Peoples' Representatives has officially confirmed the appointment of Haymanot Zeleke as the Director General of the Ethiopian Media Authority. During its 8th regular session of the 5th working year held today, the House deliberated on the nomination of Haymanot to lead the regulatory body. Following a review of her professional merits and extensive experience in the industry, the House approved the appointment with a unanimous vote. Haymanot brings a wealth of seasoned expertise to the role, having ascended through the ranks of the Ethiopian News Agency from reporter to editor. Her distinguished career also includes significant service at the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation (EBC). Beyond her work in journalism, she has held high-level leadership positions within the Addis Ababa City Administration, where she served as the Head of the Communication Sector with the rank of Deputy Bureau Head. Her dedication to public service is further reflected in her previous tenure at the former Government Communication Affairs Office, where she played a pivotal role in the nation’s communication landscape.

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.