Addis Ababa, September 11, 2026 (ENA) — Israeli Ambassador Avraham Neguise and Cameroonian Ambassador Churchill Ewumbue-Monono have extended New Year wishes to the Ethiopian people as Ethiopia marks New Year 2019 today. Speaking to ENA, Ambassador Neguise said the celebration comes at a unique time, as both Ethiopia and Israel observe their New Year on the same date this year. He noted that in the Jewish calendar, the occasion is called Rosh Hashanah, while in Ethiopia it is known as Enkutatash. Neguise described Enkutatash as a festival that arrives as spring flowers brighten Ethiopia’s landscapes, adding that in Israel, the New Year is welcomed with the sound of the shofar, symbolizing hope and good wishes for the coming year. He then conveyed greetings to Ethiopians both at home and abroad, saying, “Happy New Year! Enkutatash!” For Israelis, he added, “Shanah Tovah—Happy New Year—u’Metuka!” He explained that “Shanah Tovah u’Metuka” means “May the new year be sweet like honey,” referencing the tradition of eating apples dipped in honey to symbolize sweetness for the year ahead. Concluding his message, Neguise wished the coming year would bring peace, prosperity, resilience, and unity to both Ethiopians and Israelis, emphasizing that with unity and peace, “we can prosper,” and calling the year a blessing for both Ethiopia and Israel. On his part, Cameroon’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Ewumbue-Monono, conveyed New Year greetings, expressing “Happy New Year” to Ethiopians and wishing them the best of the season, along with hope and renewal. He noted that in the concluding Ethiopian year, Ethiopia achieved major national milestones, including the General Election and the National Dialogue. The ambassador described the New Year as one of renewal and expressed optimism for continued progress. Both ambassadors wished Ethiopians to embrace the New Year with renewed hope as the nation celebrates Enkutatash.

Addis Ababa, September 11, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and First Lady Zinash Tayachew shared the New Year holiday meal with members of the local community, continuing a cherished Ethiopian tradition of celebrating major occasions together. The gathering reflected the enduring culture of sharing, solidarity and togetherness that has long characterized Ethiopian society, according to Office of Prime Minister. The tradition of hosting and sharing meals with neighbors, families and community members remains deeply rooted in Ethiopian life, becoming especially visible during major holidays such as the New Year.   Its continued practice across generations highlights the resilience of Ethiopia’s rich social and cultural values, where hospitality, communal bonds and mutual support remain an integral part of everyday life and holiday celebrations, it was learned.

By Yordanos D. Sept. 11, 2026 (ENA) Ethiopia is welcoming the 2019 New Year with renewed confidence, a stronger sense of national purpose and an increasingly ambitious development agenda, as the country seeks to transform the gains of recent years into lasting economic prosperity and improved livelihoods. Enkutatash, celebrated on Meskerem 1, falls on September 11 in the Gregorian calendar and marks the beginning of a new year in Ethiopia's distinctive calendar. The Ethiopian calendar consists of twelve months of 30 days each, followed by the five day or six day intercalary month of Pagume. Beyond its uniqueness as a system of timekeeping, the calendar remains an important expression of Ethiopia's historical identity and cultural continuity. The New Year also arrives as the rainy season gives way to the bright season traditionally associated with renewal. Green landscapes, blooming Adey Abeba flowers, family gatherings and traditional songs give the holiday a distinctive atmosphere. For Ethiopians, therefore, the New Year represents more than the turning of a calendar page. It is a moment for reflection on what has been achieved, recognition of the challenges that remain and renewed commitment to what lies ahead. For Ethiopia, the arrival of 2019 carries an additional significance. It comes at a time when the government is seeking to move the country's development trajectory from reform and construction toward greater productivity, economic self reliance and broad based prosperity. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has repeatedly framed the current period as a transition from announcing ambitions to delivering tangible results. In a series of messages issued during the final days of 2018, he described Ethiopia's resurgence as increasingly visible in major national projects, economic reforms and initiatives intended to improve everyday life. "Yesterday we declared our rise; today, we live it," the Prime Minister said in his September 7 message. He pointed to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, corridor development, the Bishoftu International Airport mega project and macroeconomic reforms as manifestations of the country's development momentum. He said the transformation was already bringing "seamless urban mobility, vast employment opportunities" and a stronger outlook for future generations. The country had built an unshakable foundation for multinational unity through its indigenous values and the philosophy of Medemer, or synergy. The Prime Minister cited the National Dialogue, human centered corridor development, volunteer programs and the Green Legacy Initiative (GLI) as examples of efforts intended to translate collective national aspirations into practical results, stressing Ethiopia's objective is not merely physical construction but the creation of an inclusive and economically self-reliant country in which citizens can participate in and benefit from national development. That message provides an important framework for 2019. The new Ethiopian year is expected to be more about consolidating reforms, completing major projects, expanding production and ensuring that economic growth produces wider opportunities. From Reform to Productive Growth The economic agenda for 2019 is anchored in the country's Ten-Year Development Plan and the second phase of the Homegrown Economic Reform Program. The government has increasingly emphasized macroeconomic stability, structural transformation, private sector participation, domestic resource mobilization and export competitiveness. The federal budget approved for the 2019 Ethiopian fiscal year amounts to about 2.339 trillion Birr, making it the largest federal budget in the country's history. The allocation framework gives significant attention to education, roads, health, agriculture, energy expansion and urban development, while also providing budgetary support to regional states. The budget is designed to consolidate the gains of economic reform while addressing the pressure on household purchasing power and supporting low-income communities. Finance Minister Ahmed Shide has said the spending plan gives particular attention to vulnerable households while maintaining the reform agenda and pursuing inclusive growth. The scale of the budget reflects the breadth of the government's ambitions for the new year. But the central test will be implementation: whether investment can translate into greater production, more employment, stronger exports and improved public services. Agriculture and Food Sovereignty Agriculture remains at the heart of Ethiopia's transformation because of its role in food security, employment, industrial inputs and export earnings. The country has increasingly moved beyond a narrow food security approach toward the broader objective of food sovereignty. Wheat production, irrigation development, mechanization, agricultural clusters, improved seeds and livestock development have become important elements of this strategy. The Yelemat Trufat initiative is also intended to strengthen livestock productivity and improve household nutrition while creating opportunities for farmers and pastoralists. The broader objective is to make agriculture more productive, commercially oriented and capable of supplying both domestic industries and export markets. In 2019, greater attention is expected to be placed on irrigation and dry season production, mechanization, value addition and market linkages. Such measures are critical if agricultural growth is to translate into lower food imports, stronger rural incomes and a reliable supply of raw materials for manufacturing. The government's wider development plan identifies agriculture as one of the sectors capable of driving structural transformation alongside manufacturing, mining, tourism and technology. Ethiopia reiterated this approach at an African Union technical meeting in July, highlighting agriculture, manufacturing, mining, tourism and technology as key sectors under the Ten-Year Development Plan. Manufacturing and "Made in Ethiopia" Industrialization will be another major priority in 2019. The Made in Ethiopia initiative has been designed to increase domestic production, strengthen industrial capacity, substitute imports and improve export performance. The Ministry of Industry reported that policy measures under the initiative, together with improved access to finance, have contributed to increased manufacturing production, exports and import substitution. The next challenge is to turn these gains into a sustained industrial transformation. Ethiopia needs industries capable of producing more inputs locally, creating decent employment for a growing young population and connecting agriculture with manufacturing through stronger value chains. Greater productivity, improved quality, reliable energy supplies, logistics, access to finance and export market development will therefore remain central to the industrial agenda. The emphasis on domestic production also forms part of a broader national objective of reducing dependency and increasing economic self reliance. Mining Mining is emerging as another important pillar of the transformation agenda. The government is seeking to expand responsible mining investment, improve the formalization of the sector and increase the contribution of minerals to export earnings and foreign exchange generation. Gold has become particularly important, while broader mineral exploration is expected to support industrial development and diversification. The sector, however, will need to balance investment and production with environmental protection, community benefits and responsible resource management. If managed effectively, mining can provide foreign exchange while supplying raw materials for domestic industries and creating new investment opportunities. Tourism and Aviation Tourism is another area where Ethiopia's natural, historical and cultural assets offer significant economic potential. Initiatives such as Dine for Ethiopia and broader destination development efforts have sought to turn Ethiopia's historical sites, landscapes, cuisine and cultural heritage into stronger sources of employment and foreign exchange. Aviation is an important part of this strategy. The planned Bishoftu International Airport represents one of the country's most ambitious infrastructure projects and is intended to strengthen Ethiopia's position as a major aviation and logistics hub. Prime Minister Abiy has identified the airport among the projects symbolizing the country's current development momentum. The airport, together with Ethiopian Airlines' expanding network, improved road connectivity and tourism infrastructure, could strengthen Ethiopia's position as a gateway connecting Africa with the Middle East, Asia and other global markets. Technological Transformation The digital economy is becoming increasingly central to the country's development strategy. Under Digital Ethiopia 2030, Ethiopia is seeking to expand digital public services, digital identification, mobile financial services, telecommunications, artificial intelligence and technology based entrepreneurship. The objective extends beyond providing internet access. Digital transformation is expected to reduce transaction costs, improve government services, expand financial inclusion, create new businesses and connect Ethiopian enterprises to regional and global markets. Prime Minister Abiy has also increasingly linked Ethiopia's development ambitions with technological sovereignty. In his message marking African Union Day, he called on African countries and young people to take greater ownership of the continent's digital future. For Ethiopia, this means that 2019 could become an important year for turning digital infrastructure into productive economic capacity. Infrastructure That Connects the Economy Infrastructure development remains one of the most visible components of Ethiopia's transformation. Corridor development projects in Addis Ababa and other cities are changing urban mobility and public spaces while creating new commercial and social infrastructure. The approach is increasingly focused on integrating roads, pedestrian facilities, public spaces, greenery and urban services rather than treating road construction as an isolated activity. Prime Minister Abiy has specifically cited human centered corridor development as one of the practical initiatives demonstrating how collective national action can generate tangible results. Beyond cities, roads, energy infrastructure, logistics corridors and aviation projects are intended to reduce the cost of moving people and goods and connect producers to markets. The challenge in 2019 will therefore be to ensure that infrastructure does not remain an end in itself but becomes a platform for production, investment and employment. Energy Independence Energy remains fundamental to Ethiopia's industrial and economic ambitions. The completion and inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam has become one of the country's most important milestones in its effort to expand electricity generation and strengthen energy security. The dam is also increasingly presented by the government as a symbol of national capacity, collective financing and self reliance. Prime Minister Abiy has included the GERD among the major projects that demonstrate Ethiopia's shift from aspiration toward concrete development. The priority for the new year is therefore not only generating electricity but ensuring that expanded power supply translates into industrial production, agricultural processing, digital services, exports and improved living standards. Green Development Economic transformation is also being pursued alongside environmental restoration. The Green Legacy Initiative has become one of Ethiopia's most prominent national environmental programs, combining tree planting with watershed restoration, climate resilience and broader public mobilization. The initiative has evolved from a tree planting campaign into a wider development approach linking environmental protection with agriculture, water management, urban greenery and climate resilience. Prime Minister Abiy again cited the Green Legacy Initiative in his latest New Year message as one of the practical programs through which collective national values have been converted into tangible action. The coming year will therefore require Ethiopia to pursue economic growth while protecting its natural resources and strengthening resilience against climate related shocks. Human Capital No development strategy can succeed without investment in people. Education, health, employment and skills development remain essential to Ethiopia's long term transformation, particularly given the country's large and youthful population. The 2019 federal budget places education and health among the major priority areas, while the government's economic strategy continues to emphasize employment creation and private sector development. The challenge is to ensure that young Ethiopians are not simply beneficiaries of economic growth but active participants in it. This requires stronger technical and vocational education, digital skills, entrepreneurship opportunities, access to finance and a business environment capable of absorbing millions of young people entering the labor market. Unity as a Development Imperative Economic transformation cannot be separated from peace and national cohesion. In his latest New Year message, Abiy placed unity at the center of the country's development trajectory, arguing that shared values and Medemer provide the foundation for collective progress. His message comes after a year in which the National Dialogue process, development initiatives, volunteer programs and large scale infrastructure projects have all been presented as mechanisms for strengthening national cohesion. The idea is straightforward: development requires stability, stability requires cooperation and cooperation becomes stronger when citizens share a sense of national purpose. As Ethiopia enters 2019, this connection between peace, unity and development is likely to remain one of the central themes of the government's agenda. From Construction to Results The defining question of 2019 will ultimately be whether Ethiopia can move successfully from building foundations to generating results from those foundations. The country has invested heavily in roads, energy, urban infrastructure, agriculture, digital systems, environmental restoration and major national projects. Economic reforms have also begun to change the policy environment. The next stage requires productivity. Factories must produce more competitively. Farmers must earn more from higher productivity. Infrastructure must reduce transport costs. Digital systems must make services faster and more accessible. Energy expansion must support industrialization. Tourism must create jobs and foreign exchange. Mining must generate greater economic value while protecting communities and the environment. This is consistent with the broader philosophy expressed by Prime Minister Abiy at the Ethiopia Delivers National Summit earlier this year, where he described nation building as a continuous collective responsibility and emphasized that reforms should become foundations for lasting change. A New Year of Execution Ethiopia therefore enters 2019 at a significant point in its development journey. The country is not beginning from zero. It enters the new year with major projects completed, others under construction, an extensive economic reform program, a new fiscal framework and a development strategy that places agriculture, manufacturing, mining, tourism and technology at the center of structural transformation. The approved 2.339 trillion birr federal budget provides the financial framework for implementing the priorities of the new fiscal year, while the Ten Year Development Plan provides the longer term direction. But ambition alone will not determine the success of the new Ethiopian year. Implementation, productivity, accountability and the ability to translate national investments into improvements in household incomes and public services will be decisive. That is why the message of the New Year is increasingly one of execution. Ethiopia's 2019 begins with the country seeking to transform the foundations laid during the previous years into a more productive, resilient and self reliant economy. The challenge is substantial, but so is the opportunity. As the Adey Abeba blooms across the Ethiopian landscape and families gather to celebrate Enkutatash, the New Year offers a natural moment to look forward. It is a moment to preserve what has been achieved, correct what has not worked, accelerate what is delivering results and ensure that the country's major development ambitions are translated into tangible benefits for its people. In the words of Prime Minister Abiy's latest New Year message, Ethiopia's aspiration is to build an inclusive, economically self-reliant nation while unlocking the collective potential of its people. For 2019, that aspiration now faces its most important test which is turning momentum into lasting prosperity.

Addis Ababa, September 10, 2026 (ENA) —Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh has extended New Year greetings to Ethiopians, saying the country’s achievements over the past year have laid a strong foundation for greater progress in 2019 Ethiopian New Year. In his New Year message, the Deputy Prime Minister described 2018 as a year of significant accomplishments, noting that the achievements recorded during the year would serve as a springboard for new initiatives and further national progress in the year ahead. He said 2019 will be a year of consolidating the gains of previous years while opening a new chapter of development, political engagement and national transformation. According to Temesgen, Ethiopia is expected to make further progress in the political sphere, while ongoing macroeconomic adjustments will increasingly yield tangible results. He also highlighted the expected momentum in agriculture, industry and the digital economy, saying progress in these sectors will further strengthen Ethiopia’s role and leadership in the region. The Deputy Prime Minister further pointed to Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to secure reliable and sustainable access to the sea, expressing confidence that the initiatives launched in this regard will begin to produce meaningful outcomes.   He said Ethiopia’s eastern gateway will increasingly become a point of engagement, attracting people and opportunities through peaceful means and other avenues. “In 2019, Ethiopia’s history will take an even sharper turn,” Temesgen said, underscoring the significance of the new year for the country’s national journey. He called on the government, the Ethiopian people and political forces to work together to strengthen the country’s unity, wisdom and political maturity in pursuing shared national objectives. Temesgen wished Ethiopians a New Year marked by peace, excellence and wisdom.

Addis Ababa, September 10, 2026 (ENA)— The diplomatic missions of Germany, Finland and Denmark in Addis Ababa have extended New Year wishes to the Ethiopian people, expressing hopes for peace, unity, prosperity and stronger relations between Ethiopia and their respective countries. The messages came during New Year visits to the diplomatic missions, organized jointly by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism, where Ethiopian children shared traditional New Year songs with ambassadors and diplomatic representatives. The Acting German Ambassador and Deputy Head of Mission, Ferdinand von Weyhe, expressed wishes for peace, unity, prosperity and healing in Ethiopia in the coming year. “May this year bring to all of us here in Ethiopia ... peace, unity, richness of harvest, desire and healing,” von Weyhe said, extending New Year greetings to the Ethiopian people. On behalf of the Embassy of Finland, Pirjo-Liisa Heikkilä, Deputy Head of Mission, wished all Ethiopians a joyful and prosperous New Year, expressing hope that the year would bring unity, peace and continued friendship between Finland and Ethiopia. The Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Denmark, Mirja Crone, said the embassy was pleased to celebrate the Ethiopian New Year with the children. She said the Embassy of Denmark looks forward to further strengthening the “already strong partnership” between Denmark and Ethiopia in the new Ethiopian year. She expressed hope that the two countries would move toward a more prosperous, peaceful and sustainable future. The visits provided an opportunity for the diplomatic community to experience Ethiopian cultural traditions while conveying messages of goodwill and friendship as Ethiopia prepares to welcome the New Year.

Addis Ababa, September 10, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has delivered a broad New Year message to the nation, urging citizens to embrace dialogue, build on major national achievements, and draft a new chapter of unity and development as the country enters the Ethiopian New Year 2019. Framing time as a finite ledger granted to humanity, Prime Minister Abiy reflected on the country's historic milestones alongside its past challenges, calling on Ethiopians to focus on constructive endeavors in the period ahead. The Prime Minister highlighted major national initiatives that have gained momentum over the past year, citing progress in agricultural self-sufficiency through summer wheat production, environmental conservation via the Green Legacy Initiative, and industrial expansion through the "Made in Ethiopia" campaign. He also noted key infrastructure and economic projects, including corridor development, energy expansion, mineral exploration, and the completion of major transport and aviation frameworks. Emphasizing the successful conclusion of the National Dialogue, Prime Minister Abiy described the process as a historic turning point for Ethiopian politics. He noted that the public-led deliberations have disproved assertions that Ethiopians cannot forge common consensus on matters of national interest, establishing an enduring culture of peaceful discussion and mutual understanding. In line with the spirit of reconciliation, the Prime Minister announced executive clemency for hundreds of inmates ahead of the New Year, responding to calls made during the consultation process and demonstrating the government's commitment to peace and national unity. Looking ahead, Prime Minister Abiy stressed that the era of resolving differences through force has passed, calling for an inclusive political landscape focused on safeguarding national sovereignty, boosting multi-sectoral productivity, and reinforcing Ethiopia's diplomatic and economic standing across the region and continent.

Addis Ababa, September 10, 2026 (ENA)—European Union (EU) Ambassador to Ethiopia Sofie From-Emmesberger has extended her New Year best wishes to the people of Ethiopia, stressing that the Union is a solid and reliable partner for Ethiopia. Speaking to ENA, the Ambassador wished Ethiopians peace, prosperity, good health and happiness. “For 2019, I wish all Ethiopians peace, prosperity, good health, and happiness. The EU-Ethiopia partnership is now on a good track. The EU is a solid and reliable partner for Ethiopia,” Ambassador From-Emmesberger noted. Reflecting on the last Ethiopian year, she said the year was marked by a number of important milestones in EU-Ethiopia relations, including several high-level visits and increased political and economic dialogue. She pointed to the visit of President Taye Atske Selassie to Brussels at the beginning of the year, as well as the visit of EU Commissioner for Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen to Ethiopia for a successful EU-Ethiopia Business Forum. The Ambassador also highlighted the July visit of EU High Representative and Vice-President Kaja Kallas, who held discussions with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Foreign Minister Gedion Temothewos. “These visits and the dialogue just show that we are on a good track when it comes to the political exchange, but also on economic and trade matters,” Ambassador From-Emmesberger said. According to her, another significant development as 2018 came to an end was the lifting of visa restrictions that had affected Ethiopians in various ways. Looking ahead, the EU ambassador said she expects the partnership to continue growing through stronger political engagement, increased European trade and investment, and broader engagement with Ethiopian society. “I look forward to 2019 with both continuing this political engagement, continuing with having more trade and investment from the European side, and continuing to engage with society in a broad sense, also with civil society.” The EU is expanding cooperation with Ethiopia in key areas, including digital infrastructure, renewable energy, public health, climate action, green transition initiatives and international trade, as the country continues to implement wide ranging economic reforms.

(September 10, 2026, Addis Ababa) —Diplomats from various countries in Ethiopia have extended warm New Year greetings to the Ethiopian people, expressing hopes for peace, prosperity, good health and stronger bilateral relations in the year ahead. The diplomats conveyed their wishes as Ethiopia prepares to welcome the New Year, highlighting the importance of peace, cooperation and continued friendship between Ethiopia and their respective countries. The messages came as Ethiopia welcomed the New Year, a major cultural occasion marked by celebrations, family gatherings and expressions of hope for a peaceful and prosperous future. The diplomatic messages also highlighted the importance of friendship and cooperation between Ethiopia and partner countries. UAE Ambassador to Ethiopia Abdalla Hassan Alshamsi wished Ethiopians peace, love and prosperity, describing the Ethiopia UAE relationship as a “strong and distinguished strategic partnership” built on friendship, mutual respect and shared interests. Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates have expanded cooperation in recent years across investment, trade, development, tourism and other areas of mutual interest, providing a broader foundation for their growing bilateral partnership. Similarly, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Ethiopia Nirmala Indumathie Dias Paranavitana highlighted the shared spirit of renewal, family, friendship and hope reflected in the New Year traditions of Ethiopia and Sri Lanka. She said such shared values can build bridges between peoples and nations. Her remarks underscored the role of cultural similarities and people to people exchanges in bringing countries closer, beyond formal diplomatic relations. Yemen’s Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Abdelkader Mohammed Hadi on his part wished Ethiopians success and prosperity, noting the longstanding relations and common interests between Ethiopia and Yemen. Malaysia’s Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Mohd Afandi Abu Bakar wished the Ethiopian government and people prosperity, good health and wellbeing, while highlighting opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation and people to people ties. Ethiopia and Malaysia have continued to maintain diplomatic engagement, with opportunities for expanded cooperation in trade, investment, education, technology and other sectors offering potential for stronger ties. The diplomats conveyed their messages during Ethiopian New Year celebrations, emphasizing the role of friendship, culture and people to people connections in strengthening relations between Ethiopia and their respective countries. The New Year messages also reflected the broader diplomatic engagement between Ethiopia and the international community, as foreign missions in Addis Ababa joined Ethiopians in marking the beginning of a new year and expressing shared hopes for peace, stability and development. They wished Ethiopians a peaceful, healthy and prosperous New Year and expressed hope for deeper friendship, stronger bilateral relations and expanded cooperation in the year ahead.

Addis Ababa, September 9, 2026 (ENA)—— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has presented holiday gifts to employees of the Office of the Prime Minister in connection with the upcoming Ethiopian New Year celebration of 2019 E.C. The Prime Minister also provided educational supplies to children supported by the Office of the Prime Minister, according to a post on the office’s social media accounts. The gesture comes as Ethiopia prepares to welcome the New Year, which will be celebrated on September 11 and marks the beginning of 2019 in the Ethiopian calendar. The initiative reflects efforts to share the holiday spirit with employees and children receiving support from Office of the Prime Minister.

(September 9, 2026, Addis Ababa) — The Ethiopian Public Service University (EPSU), which has been undertaking institutional reform, announced that it will strive to ensure quality education and meet global standards. EPSU President Nigus Tadesse told the media today that the university has been carrying out institutional reforms to ensure quality education and meet global standards. He added that it will also start admitting undergraduate students for the first time in its history during the upcoming academic year. The Ethiopian Public Service University (EPSU), formerly known as the Ethiopian Civil Service University, was established about 30 years ago. During the first phase of its establishment, the university focused on empowering government leaders. In its second phase, the university shifted its focus to qualifying civil servants across the country, the President said. Now, in its third phase, the university has finalized preparations to admit undergraduate students in addition to continuing to train and qualify civil servants, he indicated. Moreover, the university has decided to implement a teaching approach consisting of 60 percent practical and 40 percent theoretical instruction across 18 programs, according to Nigus. The university has also decided to focus its research on the public sector by identifying challenges within government institutions, seeking solutions to these challenges, and conducting problem-solving research. “Our focus is on improving government operations and enhancing the efficiency of public service delivery. Consequently, we have grounded our research in government activities and public needs.” The President also said the University is working to meet global standards in accrediting its lecturers at global standards and fulfilling technological instruments and infrastructures.

Addis Ababa, September 7, 2026 (ENA)—) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has expressed condolences over the death of Tanzania’s First Gentleman, Hafidh Ameir Hassan, who died on Monday while receiving medical treatment in Zanzibar. In a social media post, PM Abiy conveyed sympathy to President Samia Suluhu Hassan and the Tanzanian people. “On behalf of the Government and people of Ethiopia, we extend our deepest condolences to Her Excellency, her family, and the people of Tanzania. Our thoughts and sympathies remain with her family and the people of Tanzania during this difficult time,” he stated. Hassan, who became First Gentleman in 2021, had been receiving treatment for a heart condition.

Addis Ababa, September 6, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Ethiopia’s economic transformation represents a historic breakthrough toward genuine national sovereignty and self-reliance. In a message posted on his X page to mark the Day of Breakthrough, Pagume 1, the Prime Minister stated that the country is overcoming dependency through increased domestic production and bold economic reforms. He further explained Ethiopia’s ancestors had preserved the country’s borders through immense sacrifice, leaving behind a nation whose sovereignty must now be strengthened through economic independence. He highlighted Ethiopia’s transformation in wheat production, noting that the country has moved from relying heavily on imports to becoming one of Africa’s leading wheat producers, saving millions of dollars in foreign exchange. PM Abiy also pointed to the Yelemat Trufat (Bounty of the Basket) and Made in Ethiopia initiatives as key pillars of the government’s drive to strengthen food security, expand domestic industries and create employment opportunities. He said the government has also undertaken decisive macroeconomic reforms in areas once considered untouchable, laying what he described as a stronger foundation for the national economy. According to the Prime Minister, these achievements demonstrate Ethiopia’s growing capacity to withstand both internal and external challenges while pursuing a development path anchored in production and self-reliance. True sovereignty, his message suggests, is increasingly being defined not only by the ability to defend national borders, but also by the capacity to feed the nation, produce domestically, create jobs and build an independent economy. Prime Minister Abiy said the progress achieved so far offers “immense hope” for the coming year as Ethiopia continues its march toward a more resilient and self-reliant future.

Addis Ababa, Sep 2, 2026 (ENA) —The Ministry of Health (MoH) affirmed that Ethiopia’s growing culture of volunteerism is expanding preventive health services nationwide. State Minister of Health Frehiwot Abebe told ENA that the initiatives include free health screenings, disease prevention activities, and community cleanup campaigns designed to protect citizens from seasonal health risks during the rainy season. Initiated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, rainy season volunteerism has already become a national tradition, she noted, emphasizing that the movement mobilizes government institutions to undertake people-centered community projects tailored to their specific mandates. “Performing volunteer and people-centered work every rainy season has become a national habit,” she said, describing the efforts as both preventive and patriotic. The initiative has driven mass free screening and treatment campaigns for four consecutive rainy seasons at the ministry of health, she added. Last year alone, the ministry treated nearly 15 million citizens for conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, helping individuals manage their health before serious complications develop. “When citizens remain unaware of their health status and seek care only after falling ill, the medical costs are substantial,” Frehiwot said, noting that early counseling and timely referrals ease the financial and logistical burden on both patients and the healthcare system. This year, the ministry plans to expand free treatments to 20 million people while strengthening follow-up care for those needing further treatment. The volunteer push extends beyond clinical services to community-level interventions. Volunteers clean elderly residents' homes, clear drainage systems, fill stagnant water pools, and sanitize health facilities. “Every rainy season, it is essential not only to build and beautify, but also to maintain public spaces where people eat, work, and receive care,” the state minister stressed, calling on health workers and community members to share responsibility for public facility upkeep. The ministry uses disease forecasting, early intervention, and community mobilization in order to manage seasonal risks. In response to malaria rates, the government distributed more than 13 million insecticide-treated bed nets this year while maintaining stocks of diagnostic kits and medications. According to her, authorities also track trends weekly down to the kebele (neighborhood) level using a digital disease surveillance system, allowing rapid localized responses. “If data shows rising cases in a specific area due to stagnant water, we address it immediately,” the state minister noted. She described this data-driven feedback loop, combining environmental drainage, bed net distribution, and prompt treatment, as a proactive strategy to counter climate-driven health threats.

Addis Ababa, Sept. 2, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia has made significant progress in expanding primary healthcare services, with the government taking a leading role in delivering essential health services, Chief of Staff at the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) Aboubakri Diaw said. Speaking to ENA, Diaw commended Ethiopia’s achievements in primary healthcare and stressed the need to sustain the gains through stronger and more sustainable financing. “Ethiopia did a lot of positive things when it comes to primary healthcare,” Diaw said, noting that the government has played a central role in delivering important healthcare services. He underscored the broader economic value of investing in health, saying stronger healthcare systems can contribute not only to people’s wellbeing but also to economic growth, public revenue and national development. Diaw said UNECA would work with the Ethiopian government to strengthen the connection between health and economic development, while emphasizing that sustaining the progress achieved will require coordinated efforts by the Ministry of Finance, development partners and the private sector. He also highlighted the importance of linking health with environmental sustainability, pointing to Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative as a notable example. “Health and environment are really two things that we cannot dissociate,” Diaw said, praising Ethiopia’s efforts to plant trees and improve the urban environment. He encouraged other African countries to learn from Ethiopia’s experience, while adapting its approaches to their own national circumstances rather than simply replicating the model. According to Diaw, creating healthier and more livable cities—where people can walk safely and breathe clean air, can generate benefits extending well beyond public health. Such investments, he said, can improve people’s physical and mental wellbeing, strengthen economic productivity and enhance the attractiveness of African cities to tourists and international visitors. Diaw further stressed the importance of presenting Africa’s positive development stories to the world, noting that the continent should not be defined solely by its challenges. “This project is one of the things that we can really be proud of,” he said, emphasizing Ethiopia’s experience as a model that can demonstrate the positive transformation taking place in Africa.

Addis Ababa, Sep 1, 2026 (ENA) — President Taye Atske-Selassie has called on religious institutions to strengthen their role in preserving Ethiopia’s moral values and promoting national unity. Speaking at the opening of the 15th Founding Anniversary and 18th Regular General Assembly of the Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia, the President described the gathering as an important forum to reflect on Ethiopia’s past, celebrate the unity of its people, and discuss shared national aspirations. He said the Council has, over the past 15 years, proven its value and helped lay a strong foundation for Ethiopia’s growth, stressing that the country was built through the ideas, labor, and prayers of successive generations. President Taye said Ethiopia’s foundation is rooted in faith, respect for human dignity, and a deep appreciation of diversity and unity. He added that religious institutions have long played a central role in shaping public morals and character. Emphasizing the responsibility of religious leaders, the President said they serve as key guardians of public ethics. He also called for stronger efforts to educate young people and protect them from imported ideologies and fleeting trends. He urged religious institutions to actively teach against practices that run counter to Ethiopian culture and morality, including deceit, falsehood, theft, corruption, cruelty, and indifference to human life. He also stressed the importance of guiding those on destructive paths toward constructive citizenship. The President further described religious leaders as guiding lights in difficult times, referring to them as apostles and sahaba of dialogue, unity, forgiveness, and reconciliation during periods of division. He welcomed the active involvement of religious leaders in Ethiopia’s recent National Dialogue process, saying it has helped promote stability, truth, and lasting peace. He noted that religious participation in national development is not merely political, but essential for progress in an increasingly modern world. President Taye concluded by underscoring that the government recognizes and values the major contribution of religious institutions to sustainable peace, social cohesion, and national development.

Addis Ababa, August 30, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has extended his condolences to His Majesty King Haakon VIII, the successor of the late Norwegian king, to the royal family, to the government, and to the people of Norway on the passing of His Majesty King Harald V. The Premier wrote: “On behalf of the Government and People of Ethiopia, I extend our heartfelt condolences to His Majesty King Haakon VIII, the Royal Family, the Government, and the People of Norway on the passing of His Majesty King Harald V.” PM Abiy noted that Norway is a steadfast partner to Ethiopia and Ethiopia stands with the Norwegian people in this time of loss.

Addis Ababa, August 27, 2026 (ENA) —Discussions aimed at further strengthening the strategic healthcare partnership between Ethiopia and France have been held. State Minister of Health Frehiwot Abebe held bilateral talks with French Ambassador for Global Health and Chair of the Unitaid Executive Board, Anne-Claire Amprou. State Minister Frehiwot Abebe noted that committed efforts are underway to boost local manufacturing capacity for essential pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and medical oxygen to ensure sustainable healthcare delivery and establish Ethiopia as a regional and continental hub, requesting expanded support from France in these areas. According to a social media post by the Ministry of Health, Anne-Claire Amprou stated that her organization works in close collaboration with the Ministry to combat HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis, adding that initiatives have commenced to scale up rapid diagnostic technologies and maternal healthcare interventions to prevent postpartum hemorrhage. In a related meeting, Frehiwot held discussions with a high-level South Korean delegation led by Dr. Ji-ho Cha and invited South Korean investors to explore investment opportunities in Ethiopia’s health sector. Ethiopia is undertaking broader health-sector reforms to strengthen domestic manufacturing of medicines and medical supplies, improve service delivery and develop the country into a regional health and medical tourism hub.

Addis Ababa, August 26, 2026 (ENA) —The Ethiopian Pharmaceutical Supply Service (EPSS) is accelerating the modernization of pharmaceutical procurement and supply-chain operations through digitalization, improved inventory management and more efficient distribution, Director General Dr. Abdulkedir Gelgelo said. The modernization efforts have earned EPSS the Gold Award at the 5th Africa Supply Chain Excellence Awards (ASCEA 2026), recognizing the Service’s reforms in digitalization, procurement and supply-chain management.   In his press briefing, Dr. Abdulkedir said the Service has been implementing focused reforms over the past four years to transform the pharmaceutical supply chain. The reforms include digitizing procurement and supply-chain operations, modernizing procurement procedures, improving inventory and distribution management, and strengthening coordination among key stakeholders. He said the reforms have significantly improved the efficiency of pharmaceutical procurement and supply operations, with processes that previously took extended periods now being completed in much shorter time. The Director General attributed the improvements to both policy measures and digital transformation, noting that EPSS was among the institutions selected to pioneer the digitalization of procurement. The Service’s integrated enterprise resource planning (ERP) system now provides real-time information across key areas of the supply chain, including procurement, suppliers, receipt of products, warehouse locations, product movement, availability and expiry status. According to the Director General, the digital system is making procurement more transparent and competitive by enabling qualified suppliers from different parts of the world to participate in tenders after meeting the required regulatory, licensing and other requirements.   EPSS has also been working to modernize its warehouse and distribution systems in line with international standards, including through Kaizen and centers of excellence, he said. These efforts have improved inventory processing and enabled pharmaceutical products to move more quickly into transactions and distribution, according to the Director General. He further said the Service has strengthened last-mile delivery by increasing the direct delivery of medicines and medical supplies to health facilities, reducing reliance on major distribution points. The Director General said the reforms have contributed to improved customer satisfaction, more cost-effective operations and stronger national pharmaceutical supply capacity.

Addis Ababa, August 26, 2026 (ENA) —Federation of African Medical Students Association (FAMSA) has commended Ethiopia’s progress in the health sector, highlighting the policies and measures that are moving the country in the right direction. Yusuf Auual Yehia, President of FAMSA, made the remarks during an interview with the ENA on the sidelines of the 76th Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa. He noted that the presentation by Ethiopia’s Minister of Health, particularly regarding advancements in maternal and child health, demonstrates tangible progress across the sector. He said the issues highlighted by the minister reflected ongoing efforts to improve health services and strengthen the health system’s capacity to respond to citizens’ needs. “Based on what I heard in the presentation by Ethiopia’s Minister of Health, I can say that Ethiopia is on the right track, particularly in the area of maternal and child health,” he said. He noted that sustaining the current trajectory could place Ethiopia in an advanced position compared with many African countries in healthcare. Turning to challenges facing Africa’s health systems, the president identified the shortage of health professionals as one of the major constraints facing the continent. Health sector financing is another significant challenge, he said, particularly for countries that rely heavily on external support to finance healthcare services. He explained that changes in the international environment have reduced the availability of external financing, putting additional pressure on health systems across the continent. The migration of health professionals is also a major concern, he said, noting that many health care workers are moving to Europe and North America in search of better employment opportunities. He also stressed that addressing these challenges requires African countries to strengthen their capacity to build sustainable health systems through greater investment in human resources, domestic financing and local production. In this regard, he underscored the importance of expanding vaccine, medicine and pharmaceutical manufacturing in Africa, saying local production could strengthen the continent’s health security and public confidence in locally produced health products. He noted that some African communities continue to face challenges in accepting imported vaccines, adding that developing local vaccine manufacturing capacity could help increase confidence in health products produced within the continent. Local manufacturing, he said, would also generate economic benefits beyond the health sector by reducing import costs, duties, taxes and other expenses associated with importing medicines, vaccines and other health products. Africa’s large market and abundant human resources provide significant opportunities for developing pharmaceutical and other health related industries locally, he said. The president also stressed that investment in domestic production could create employment opportunities for young people, increase incomes and contribute to economic growth across the continent. He added that strengthening local production would enable African countries to reduce their dependence on external sources for strategic health products and improve their capacity to respond to future health emergencies. Cooperation among African countries and the exchange of expertise could further support efforts to strengthen health and industrial capacities and make better use of the continent’s human resources, he said. He stressed that the future of healthcare in Africa is closely linked to the continent’s ability to invest in its people, expand local production and strengthen cooperation among African countries. “Local production will be an important step for Africa in addressing the current challenges related to economic development, strengthening health systems, and many other areas,” he affirmed. According to him, building a strong African production base could generate benefits extending beyond health care by supporting economic growth, creating employment opportunities and strengthening the continent’s capacity to rely on its own resources.

Addis Ababa, August 25, 2026 (ENA) —Africa has made notable progress on key health targets even as the continent faces the deepest cuts to international health financing in a generation, World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom, said. Speaking at a webinar during the 76th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa in Addis Ababa this morning, the Director-General noted that multiple countries continued advancing disease-control goals despite funding freezes that have disrupted life-saving services across the region. Some 8 countries, including Algeria, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Guinea, Kenya, Mauritius and Senegal have reached major milestones in disease elimination, according to Dr. Tedros. The Director-General also noted that more than 28 million doses of donated essential medicines were delivered, even amid financing disruptions, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) cited as an example of a country carrying the world’s largest sleeping sickness burden.   On HIV, Dr. Tedros said 21.7 million people living with the virus remain on uninterrupted treatment. Several countries, including Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia, Rwanda, Zambia and Zimbabwe, have already met the 95-95-95 targets. Progress in tuberculosis care was also highlighted, with treatment coverage rising to 74 percent, compared with 52 percent in 2020. Uganda is now treating more than 90 percent of estimated TB cases. The WHO chief further credited efforts to improve vaccination coverage, saying health system improvements have enabled the catch-up of more than 18 million children who had missed vaccines. Malaria advances were also reported after the malaria vaccine rollout reached 25 countries. Additional achievements mentioned included new human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination introductions in six countries, and Cabo Verde, Mauritius and Seychelles becoming the first sub-Saharan states to achieve verified measles and rubella elimination. Mental health access has also expanded with four million additional people gaining access to services, Dr. Tedros said. He also described strengthening outbreak detection and response, saying both Ethiopia’s Marburg outbreak and the DRC’s previous Ebola outbreak were contained within 90 days.   Despite the gains, the Director-General warned that Africa remains under severe pressure. Families still pay about one-third of health spending out of pocket; cholera has reached a regional record of more than 245,000 cases; and 44 of 47 countries cannot reliably record causes of death. He further pointed to ongoing maternal and child mortality, saying around 70 percent of maternal deaths and nearly half of under-five deaths worldwide occur in Africa. The Director-General said DRC is battling a major ongoing Ebola crisis—the second largest in history—with spread described as faster than in previous outbreaks. According to Dr. Tedros, WHO is scaling up the response with DRC’s government, Africa CDC and partners, while also advancing clinical trials of three vaccines and three treatments. He emphasized that Ebola is only one threat in DRC and that strengthening health systems must remain the top priority to support universal health coverage. The Director-General noted that the health system task in general has become harder because funding cuts were sudden rather than gradual, leading to clinic closures and job losses affecting HIV, TB, malaria, neglected tropical diseases, and maternal and newborn care. However, some countries are also working to expand domestic revenue, including tobacco tax reforms and increased domestic funding for HIV and TB, citing South Africa and Nigeria.   Moreover, Africa now has an opportunity to reduce dependency by building “health sovereignty,” self-reliance and solidarity, he stressed. WHO has begun preparing for funding reductions during transformation efforts launched in 2017, after identifying reliance on a limited donor base as a risk. The Director-General acknowledged that many voluntary contributions remain earmarked, creating gaps in some areas. Dr. Tedros outlined five priorities for the coming year: completing the path strategy for the pandemic agreement; approving the next assessed contribution increase at next May’s World Health Assembly; engaging in reforms to strengthen the global health architecture; supporting the Ebola response in DRC; and continuing WHO transformation toward a leaner organization focused on delivering results at country level.