Addis Ababa, July 25/2024(ENA) A delegation of Ethiopia national Olympic team arrived today in Paris, France ahead of the 33rd Edition of Summer Olympic Games that will be held from 26th July to August 11th 2024. Upon arrival, the Olympic team which Led by the Ethiopian Athletics Federation President Derartu Tulu was warmly welcomed by a crowd of Ethiopian Diaspora and the staff of the Embassy of Ethiopia in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. Ethiopia’s olympic team will participate in athletics, swimming, and boxing, with a total of 39 athletes representing the country at the prestigious event. Some world-record holders and a reigning champion are among the athletes representing Ethiopia at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics. The record holders and world champions team comprises the legendary long distance runner Kenenisa Bekele, women’s marathon record holder Tigist Aseffa, 3000M men’s steeplechase record holder Lamecha Girma, Tokyo Olympic 10000m gold medallist Selemon Barega, Gudaf Tsegay, among others.   Selemon Barega will defend his 10,000m title while Gudaf Tsegay has been entered for a 1500m, 5000m and 10,000m treble as part of the Ethiopian team for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Barega got gold ahead of Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei and Jacob Kiplimo in Tokyo and he will be joined in the 10,000m in Paris by his compatriots Berihu Aregawi and Yomif Kejelcha, the latter having also been named for the 5000m. World record-holder Lamecha Girma will go for his first global gold in the 3000m steeplechase after securing silver in Tokyo and at the past three editions of the World Championships. Tsegay, the Olympic 5000m bronze medallist and world champion in the 5000m in 2022 and 10,000m in 2023, will be joined by world 1500m silver medallist Diribe Welteji in the shorter of the three events. The marathon will feature world record-holder Tigist Assefa, Amane Beriso and Megertu Alemu in the women’s event, and Kenenisa Bekele, Sisay Lemma and Deresa Geleta in the men’s. Ethiopia will also be participating in the Olympic Games boxing tournament after a 20-year absence. The last time Ethiopian boxers took part in the Olympics was in 2004 in Athens. Yadesa Lemma will represent the country in the boxing category. Yadesa has been given the African quota by the International Olympic Committee Task Force following the withdrawal of Nigeria’s Omole Dolapo because of a left knee injury. The 33rd Olympic Games are set to take place in Paris from July 26 to August 11, 2024, featuring a total of 10,714 athletes from 206 countries, including independent athletes competing under the umbrella of the International Olympic Committee and the Olympic Refugee Team. These athletes will compete in 32 sports.      

Addis Ababa ,July 18/2024(ENA)- A sports training and research institute built by the Oromia regional government at a cost of over 1.5 billion Birr was inaugurated today. The institute named after the renowned Ethiopian athlete Derartu Tulu aims to bolster sports training and research. On the occasion, Oromia Regional State Chief Administrator Shimelis Abdisa said that the regional government is diligently developing sports alongside other sectors.   According to him, the region is currently engaged in constructing sports venues and training centers. The institute has been under construction for 8 years since 2016, it was learned. The goal of the institute is not only producing qualified sports-persons competitive enough at the international level, but also adapting scientific methods to manage sports, Shimelis elaborated. The institute has the capacity to receive and train 800 athletes in 16 types of sports at a time. It also has athletes dormitories, coaches residences, teaching, research and study rooms, a modern gymnasium, and a hall that can accommodate 5,200 spectators.   Besides, it comprises football, handball, volleyball, basketball, volleyball courts, tennis courts, swimming pools, running tracks, clinic and recreation centers. Built with a budget exceeding 1.5 billion Birr, the institute is expected to create permanent and temporary jobs for more than 350 people, the chief administrator said. The inauguration ceremony was attended by senior government officials, famous athletes and representatives of sections of the society.            

Addis Ababa, July 15/2024(ENA) Chief of General Staff of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), Field Marshal Berhanu Jula conferred today with international soccer stars Luis Nani and Nigerian Nwankwo Kanu. The former Manchester United winger and Portuguese national team star, Luis Nani, alongside Nigerian football icon Nwankwo Kanu are in Addis Ababa. The two legendaries' visit coincides with the 80th anniversary celebration of Mechal Sports Club, where they were honored guests.   Following the discussion, Luis Nani signed the jersey of his country, Portugal and gifted it to the Chief of General Staff, Field Marshal Berhanu Jula, according to the ENDF social media page. During their stay in Ethiopia, Nani and Kanu have visited various places including the newly built Adwa Victory Memorial, the National Museum of Ethiopia and Ethiopian Air Force. Both the renowned football players expressed enthusiasm about visiting Ethiopia's prestigious institutions and they have been thrilled to be in the country. They have also extended their appreciation to the people of Ethiopia who have shown enormous hospitality during all their visits.    

Addis Ababa July 13/2024 (ENA) The Grand African Run strengthens solidarity and fosters unity among Ethiopians living abroad, Athletics Federation President, Derartu Tulu said. The upcoming 6th edition of the Grand African Run will be held in Washington D.C. on October 12, 2024, under the theme "Togetherness is Better." "This annual event brings Ethiopians and their families together to celebrate their culture," the Grand African Run said in a statement sent to ENA. "It's conducive to share their heritage with their children, "Derartu added. She also expressed hope for a vibrant celebration and encouraged all Ethiopians abroad to be on board. The Grand African Run Director General, Gashaw Abaza on his part said the event is a one-day, 5km family fun run.   He also said it's an opportunity for Ethiopians, their descendants, and all Africans to connect with their roots and support worthy charitable causes. The general director also highlighted the event's role in reuniting Ethiopian diaspora. He called it a joyous homecoming for the Ethiopian diaspora community. Adding to the excitement, the director announced there will be a lottery draw to all the participants to win a brand new 2024 Toyota Corolla. Registration for the event is open to Ethiopian diaspora as well as the broader African community, at https://www.africanrun.com/, it was learnt.  

Addis Ababa July 13/2024 (ENA) International soccer stars Luis Nani and Nigerian Nwankwo Kanu who arrived in Addis Ababa today, expressed their commitment to nurturing young talented footballers in Ethiopia. The former Manchester United winger and Portuguese national team star, Luis Nani, alongside Nigerian football icon Nwankwo Kanu, touched down at Bole International Airport early this morning. Upon their arrival at Bole International Airport, the players were warmly welcomed by the State Minister of Tourism Sileshi Girma, Chairman of Mechal Sports Club Board, Seife Getahun, Director of Defense Media Operations, Brigadier General Kuma Mideksa and Technical Director of Mechal Sports Club, Abraham Mebiratu. The two legendaries' visit coincides with the 80th anniversary celebration of Mechal Sports Club, where they are honored guests. Approached by reporters, Nani expressed his enthusiasm about visiting Ethiopia: “I'm thrilled to be here. This trip offers me a unique opportunity to immerse myself in Ethiopia's rich culture and connect with its people.”   The player further emphasized the importance of youth development in African football. Nani stated that: “For me to be here is it is all about to know more and try to give the support in Africa for the development of football culture and academies.” He particularly mentioned his primary goal to support aspiring young players. “I understand the challenges of becoming a professional footballer, and I am here to share my experiences and knowledge to help nurture Ethiopia's next generation of soccer stars.” Echoing these sentiments, igerian professional football star Nwankwo Kanu stressed the need for reinforcing support for young African footballers.   “It's crucial that we create an environment where young talents can thrive,” the former Arsenal striker remarked. “They need guidance on achieving success, overcoming challenges, and meeting the expectations of professional football.” Both players underscored the importance of successful athletes giving back to the sport. “Our presence here is about more than just celebration. We're here to motivate and inspire. The development of African football relies on established players actively participating in youth development,” Kanu elaborated. This visit by two of football's most respected figures represents a significant opportunity for Ethiopian football, it was stated. Their commitment to sharing insights and experiences could prove invaluable in shaping the future of the sport in the country and across the continent. It is also believed that as the Mechal Sports Club commemorates its 80th year, the presence of Nani and Kanu not only adds prestige to the celebrations but also it is a turning point for football development in Ethiopia. Their dedication is also anticipated to nurture young talent could leave a lasting impact on the nation's sporting landscape.        

Addis Ababa July13/2024 (ENA) Former Portuguese national team and Manchester United star Luis Nani and Nigerian former football player Nwankwo Kanu have arrived in Addis Ababa today. The two famous football players came to Ethiopia to participate in the 80th anniversary of the establishment of Mechal Sports Club, as guests of honor. Upon their arrival at Bole International Airport, the players were warmly welcomed by the State Minister of Tourism Sileshi Girma, Chairman of Mechal Sports Club Board, Seife Getahun and Director of Defense Media Operations, Brigadier General Kuma Mideksa.   Founded in 1936, Mechal Sport Club has been actively involved in various sports fields, thereby helping to make the country known as a global sports arena. Apart from boosting the morale of the army at the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF), the club also carried out many activities for the wellbeing of the country, it was learned. Mechal Sport Club has also brought about many famous players who were selected for the Ethiopian national team and played in various international matches.        

Addis Ababa June 30/2024 (ENA) Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced today that Ethiopia has submitted its application to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the country is carrying out preparatory activities. Prime Minister Abiy had a friendly match early this morning with some of Africa's football legends who are in Ethiopia to participate in the Shenen Africa Festival. Speaking at the occasion, the Prime Minister said that Ethiopia has thrown its hat into the ring to host the prestigious Africa Cup of Nations. Acknowledging the Africa Cup of Nations requires complex procedures, the premier underscored that Ethiopia is intensifying consolidated efforts to make its request come true. He pointed out that a thorough discussion was conducted on the matter with the president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Prime Minister Abiy also believed that hosting of the Africa Cup of Nations in Ethiopia will certainly stimulate Ethiopian football. Moreover, AFCON will also bring about a great benefit to the country’s development of the tourism sector. Accordingly, the current visit of legendary African football players to Ethiopia, they are known for playing in the English Premier League and various European clubs will create a great opportunity to promote Ethiopia’s potential in this sphere.   According to him, Ethiopia is working hard through its diplomats to host AFCON and tremendous discussions including with the president of CAF have been underway. “If we succeed in these endeavors, our people will be informed and we will be engaging in the hotel and the stadium arrangements as well as other necessary preparation,” PM Abiy stated. Mentioning the significant role of the Great Run in promoting Ethiopia’s image across the globe, he further confirmed that work in various sports fields, including horse riding, will be reinforced. Former African footballers, and other renowned figures from the continent have also left their Green Legacy footprint at Friendship Park, it was learnt. On Friday, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh met with former African footballers known for playing in the English Premier League and various European clubs, famous artists from the continent, influencers, and renowned designers who arrived in Ethiopia to participate in the Shenen Africa Festival.  

Addis Ababa, June 23/2024(ENA)-Ethiopia is participating in a two-day 2024 BRICS sports ministers meeting that has been underway in the Russian city of Kazan. Ethiopian Minister of Culture and Sports, Kejela Merdassa is participating in this BRICS sports forum. At the meeting, participants are reviewing the BRICS sports cooperation in recent years and discussing in depth the cooperation in mass sports, competitive sports, sports industry and international sports affairs and among others. In his remarks on the forum, Ethiopian Minister of Culture and Sports, Kejela Merdassa expressed his pleasure over Ethiopia’s full membership of BRICS, the global emerging bloc. He also appreciated all those who contributed to strengthening the cooperation among the BRICS member countries, according to Minister of Culture and Sports. As the meeting aimed at strengthening sports development and people-to-people ties, the BRICS sport ministers discussed multifaceted and indigenous sports competitions that can play a greater role in strengthening the friendship and cooperation between the member countries. The ministers in the forum also underscored the high level of competition and organization as well as confirmed the need to create new formats of sports events in BRICS countries. On the margins of the BRICS sport ministers meeting, Culture and Sports Minister Kejela also conferred with his counterpart Mikhail Degtyarev, Minister of Sport of the Russian Federation. The two sides discussed the possibility of working together in the field of sports and they have reached consensus.  

Addis Ababa ,November 20/2023(ENA)፦ The Great Ethiopian Run 2023, held in the vibrant capital of Addis Ababa on November 19, 2023, drawing over 45,000 participants, was a beacon of athletic excellence, economic empowerment, and international camaraderie, legendary World athletics figures and an ambassador stated. Sunday's race, which attracted participants from several countries and international institutions, garnered praise from prominent figures in the world of sports and diplomacy, highlighting its multifaceted impact on Ethiopia and beyond. Ethiopian athletics legend Haile Gebreselasie hailed the Great Ethiopian Run which attracts people from all walks of life as a crucial catalyst for the growth and development of athletics and the economy in Ethiopia. According to him, many Ethiopians, embassies, NGOs, and people from other international institutions participated in the race. "The event attracts investment for our country. When over 45,000 people run here, it shows how Ethiopia is capable to organizing such a race in Addis Ababa and also attracts foreigners to run or visit as tourists," Haile said. "But I see its importance more in relation to the athletes. We will use the race to develop our athletics,” he underscored. Thus, the Great Ethiopian Run is a lifeline for athletics, tourism, investment, and the economy in Ethiopia, he stressed. Haile believes the Great Ethiopian Run in collaboration with government institutions have the capabilities to organize world-class athletics events. "We are perfect organizers. We can host global athletics events." British TV commentator on athletics Tim Hutchings, impressed by the professional organization and scale of the event, echoed Haile's sentiments on its importance to athletics in the country and beyond.   “I cannot believe how big it is. It is huge, it is very big, and it is well organized, great racing. I love it. I am learning so much," Hutchings said. "And I love Addis. I cannot believe what a great city it is.” He recommended African countries to take a lesson on how to organize such big athletics events successfully. “The quality of organization shows Africa how to put on a race. Other countries should be watching this and learning.” He noted that “for the athletes it is great. Many young athletes can come here and get a chance to be special...It is wonderful that you can find new names in this race.” The winner of the men's 10KM is, for instance, a new name who needs professional coach, manager and sponsor to flourish, and this race has helped him be known, he pointed out. South African long-distance runner Elana Meyer, who was a guest, commended its role in promoting athletics and economic development.   “I enjoyed watching the elite race. It is the biggest in the world. To see 200 women, 200 men starting in the elite race is very difficult,” she said. “It is a very impressive race to see such a strong elite field but then 45,000 participants that came out today to celebrate for Ethiopia. It is unbelievable. I have never been to an event like this and to witness it in my own continent is very special.” People from all over the world should come to experience the race in Ethiopia, the heart of Africa’s run, she noted. “This is absolutely world-class event and people all over the world should come and run it because almost the heart of Africa of running is in East Africa.” She added that the story of this race and Ethiopia have to be told to the world accurately to attract foreign participants and tourists. “Not enough people around the world know about this race because in South Africa I did not realize how big this race was.” Ethiopia is almost where the best runners in the world came from, she stressed. “To attract more people, you need to tell the story.” Italian Ambassador to Ethiopia Agostino Palese, who participated in the race, said the event show marvelous events that align with global issues can be organized in Ethiopia.   “It is a good event that could show that in Ethiopia you could organize marvelous events that could cooperate with any event in the rest of the world. It is a very nice day. A lot of people enjoyed a nice race.” The ambassador observed that the race is crucial for Ethiopia’s image, economy, and tourism. “It is a good image for Ethiopia…it is nice even for the economy, for tourism, and for attracting people to Ethiopia,” he added. Besides its sport benefits, the race is a catalyst for economic development and international cooperation.  

Addis Ababa ,November 19/2023(ENA)-Tens of thousands of people have gathered at Meskel Square in Addis Ababa today for the 10-kilometre Great Ethiopian Run, the largest road race in Africa. Today, the streets of the capital city are filled with the energy and excitement of the Great Ethiopian Run which started early morning and attracted more than 45,000 participants from Ethiopia, Africa and all over the world.   The runners, including elite athletes, recreational runners, and walkers, made their way through the city's vibrant asphalt streets, cheered on by thousands of spectators. This year's race is particularly significant as it marks the 23rd anniversary of the Great Ethiopian Run. The event was founded in 2001 by renowned world-class Ethiopian Athlete Haile Gebrselassie to promote running as a healthy and accessible activity for all Ethiopians. The Great Ethiopian Run has since grown to become a global phenomenon, attracting participants from many countries. It is also a major economic boost for Addis Ababa and the country generating millions of dollars in revenue each year. The Great Ethiopian Run is more than just a race; it is a celebration of Ethiopian culture and unity. It has been contributing a lot in maintaining and promoting peace and unity among Ethiopians.   The event brings together people from all walks of life to share a common goal: to finish the race and celebrate the joy of running. As the runners crossed the finish line today, they were greeted with cheers and applause from the crowd. The atmosphere was one of pure joy and celebration. The Great Ethiopian Run is a testament to the power of sport to unite people and promote positive change.  

Addis Ababa, September 24/2023 (ENA)-Ethiopia's Athlete Tigist Assefa obliterates women's marathon world record at the Berlin Marathon by clocking 2:11:53 to finish the race. The 29-year-old Athlete ran a staggering 2:11:53 to take over two minutes off Brigid Kosgei’s world record of 2:14:04 from 2019. In her first race of 2023 and only her third marathon ever, Tigist Assefa charged to a massive lead and didn’t look back. Assefa went out aggressively, separating herself from the pack after 15K and only continued to grow her lead. Sheila Chepkirui of Kenya ended up second in 2:17:49, followed by Tanzanian Magdalena Shauri in 2:18:41. It is to be recalled that Assefa's winning time is the 13th world record to be set in Berlin, where she won last year in 2:15.37. In men's Berlin Marathon, Kenyan athlete Eliud Kepchoge finished first, while Ethiopian athlete Tadese Takele finished third. Winning the Berlin Marathon for a record fifth time in a time of 2 hours, 2 minutes, and 42 seconds confirms Kepchoge's status as the Greatest of All Time, it was learned.    

Addis Ababa, August 29/2023(ENA) The Ethiopian athletics delegation has received a hero's welcome upon arrival at the Addis Ababa Bole International Airport early this morning. The team, which registered an impressive results at the 19th World Athletics Championships, was welcomed by senior government officials including Culture and Sport Minister, Kejela Merdasa, Foreign Affairs State Minister, Ambassador Birtukan Ayano, Women and Social Affairs Minister, Ergoge Tesfaye and members of the athletics community. The Ethiopian athletics team returned home after winning two gold, four silver, and three bronze medals at the 19th World Athletics Championship that took place in Budapest, Hungary, from 19–27 August 2023. Ethiopia has finished the championship ranked 6th at global level and 2nd in Africa. The team will travel through the main streets of Addis Ababa to express their joy with the residents of the capital.  

Addis Ababa, August 26/2023 (ENA) Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed congratulated Ethiopian athletes who claim gold and silver in the women’s marathon at the World Athletics Championships Budapest 2023. “Congratulations again to our female athletes at the World Athletics Championships Budapest 2023 who claim gold and silver in the women’s marathon. Together we are destined to achieve many more great feats!”, Abiy twitted. Amane Beriso and Gotytom Gebreslase won Gold and Silver respectively at the World Athletics Championships Budapest 2023. Amane Beriso snached gold medal in women's marathon in 2:24:23 while Gotytom Gebreslase won silver medal in 2:24:34.    

Addis Ababa, August 21/2023 (ENA) IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu has expressed happiness over the achievements of the exceptional athletes from member states for their outstanding performance at the World Athletics. “I am Delighted with the achievements of the exceptional athletes from IGAD member states for their outstanding performance at the World Athletics as Championship in Budapest,” the executive secretary twitted. Workneh added: “Their determination, resilience, and sportsmanship are an inspiration, and united us in celebrations across the region.” Recall athletes from the IGAD region countries including Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda are achieving outstanding victories at World Athletics Championship which is underway in Budapest, Hungary. Ethiopian athletes made victory on Saturday by winning Gold, Silver and Bronze in the 10,000 meters Women race at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, it was learned. Ugandan Athlete Joshua Cheptegei also clinched gold in the 10,000m meters race yesterday and Kenya's Daniel Simiu finished second. While the bronze medal went to Solomon Barega of Ethiopia.  

Addis Ababa, August 20/2023 (ENA) Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has congratulated Ethiopian athletes who once again raised the flag high in the 10,000 meter race at the World Athletics Championship in Budapest, Hungary. “Proud daughters of Ethiopia raise the flag once again at the World Athletics Championship in Budapest. A sweep for Ethiopia in the women’s 10,000m!” Abiy twitted. Ethiopian athletes made victory by winning Gold, Silver and Bronze in 10,000 meters Women race at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest last night. Accordingly, Gudaf Tsegay, Letesenbet Gidey and Ejgayehu Taye won Gold, Silver and Bronze respectively.    

Addis Ababa July 23/2023(ENA):- Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has today unveiled a memorial plaque in the street of Rome in honor of the heroic Ethiopian athlete Abebe Bikila. The premier is in Italy attending the International Conference on Development and Migration being underway in Rome.   On the side line of the conference, the premier unveiled a memorial plaque in the street of Rome in honor of the late athlete Abebe Bikila. Abebe was a marathon runner who won a gold medal while running barefoot at the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome. Abebe was also the first Olympic gold medalist both for Ethiopia and Africa. PM Abiy stated that Abebe Bikila is a source of national pride and a national gem. He is a unique athlete that raised the profile of Ethiopia to prominence on the world stage and opened the door for many African athletes. “He remains a unique symbol of endurance and invincibility. The Italian city of Rome has a street named after him. Early this morning, we unveiled a memorial plaque in his honor,” the premier said in a message he posted on face-book page.  

Addis Ababa June 10/2023(ENA):- Ethiopia's Lamecha Girma smashed a new world record clocking 7: 52.11 in the men's 3,000m steeplechase at the Diamond League meeting in Paris on Friday. Lamecha, 22, twice a silver medallist at the world championships and once at the Olympics, clocked 7:52.11, shattering the previous best of 7:53.63 set by Kenyan-born Qatari Saif Saaeed Shaheen in Brussels in 2004. "I'm feeling so happy. Happy and very proud, I felt so fast during the race, so confident. The world record is not a surprise; I planned to beat it tonight in Paris. It's a result of a full determination," AFP quoted Lamecha as saying. Lamecha has completely dominated the race, finishing 17 seconds ahead of second-placed Ryuji Miura, who set a new Japanese record of 8:09.91. The official world records in the 3000 meters Steeplechase are currently held by the Ethiopian Lamecha Girma at 7:52.11 for men and Beatrice Chepkoech of Kenya at 8:44.32 for women.

Addis Ababa April 2/ 2023 (ENA) Ethiopia's Abeje Ayana won the men's race at the Paris Marathon on Sunday in his first competitive run over the distance. The 20-year-old Ayana won with a time of two hours, seven minutes and 15 seconds, 20 seconds ahead of compatriot and pre-race favourite Guye Adola with Kenya's Josphat Boit a further five seconds back in third. After clocking 59:39 in a half marathon in Poznan, Poland in 2021, Ayana was one of the men to watch on a grey, windy morning in the French capital, Reuters reported.  

Addis Ababa March 29/2023/ENA/ President Sahle-Work Zewde has received a delegation led by World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) President Witold Bonka today, according to the Office of the President. The discussion centered on the conditions under which Ethiopia and the World Anti-Doping Agency can work closely in anti-doping control and investigation, and how the organization can provide technical support, it was learned.   During the discussion, Sahle-Work said that Ethiopia has a long history in athletics and is known in the world since athlete Abebe Bikila won marathon in Rome. She finally thanked the World Anti-Doping Agency for its technical support in anti-doping control.  

Addis Ababa November 20/2022/ENA/ The 22nd edition of Great Ethiopian Run was held today in Addis Ababa with participation of more than 40,000 people. President Sahle-Work Zewde, Addis Ababa Mayor, Adanech Abiebie, Minister of Culture and Tourism, Kejela Merdasa and other senior government officials as well guests including renowned Kenyan athletes and tourists attended the 10 killo Meter annual street race held at Meskel Square in the capital. The Great Ethiopian Run is the first biggest event in Africa and sixth in the world’s international street races. The Great Ethiopian Run is believed to be one of the most important events to promoting tourism in Ethiopia. It was indicated that the Great Ethiopian Run has successfully conducted more than 100 races in various cities in the country over the past years. Ethiopia's famous long-distance runner, Haile Gebrselassie founded the race in 2000.