Addis Ababa, August 30, 2025 (ENA) -- The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, congratulates the Kingdom of Morocco on winning the African Nations Championship in Nairobi, hailing it as “a proud moment for Morocco and for African football.” Morocco lifted their third African Nations Championship (CHAN) title in six years after edging Madagascar 3-2 in the final of the 2024 edition (held in 2025) on Saturday (30 August) in Nairobi, Kenya. AU Commission Chairperson praised the tournament for showcasing Africa’s unity and talent, and applauded all participating teams for their passion and resilience.   He also commended Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda for their joint hosting, calling it a model of regional partnership. Youssouf paid tribute to Sudan for reaching the semi-finals despite the country’s challenges, describing the team’s performance as “a beacon of hope.” Reaffirming the AU’s support, the Chairperson said sport is an important part of culture and diplomacy, and remains a powerful driver of peace, unity, and international cooperation. The result continues a great year for Moroccan football, after their youth sides won the Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations and reached the final of the Under-20 tournament. The North African country is preparing to host the senior AFCON for the first time since 1988, with this year’s event set to get underway on December 21.

Addis Ababa, August 26, 2025 (ENA) - The Ministry of Labor and Skills has pledged to intensify efforts to equip Ethiopian youth with globally competitive skills, following the country’s outstanding performance at the 2025 BRICS Skills Competition held in Guangzhou, China. Ethiopia proudly brought home gold, silver, and bronze medals from the international event. The competition brought together over 300 participants from BRICS member states, Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, and focused on intelligent manufacturing, artificial intelligence, digital skills, and future-oriented innovation. Representing Ethiopia, Zelalem Endalew won the Gold Medal for his IoT-Based Smart Irrigation Controlling and Monitoring System; Abenezer Tekeste secured the Silver Medal with his Manual Plastic Injection Molding Machine; and Nebiha Nesru Awoll earned the Bronze Medal for her AI-Based Nurse Calling System. In a ceremony held last night, Labor and Skills Minister Muferihat Kamil welcomed and honored the medalists for their achievements. She praised their creativity and dedication, calling their success a reflection of the country’s growing investment in youth skill development. “The three medals won by our youth are not only a source of pride but also strong evidence of what can be achieved when we empower the next generation,” said Minister Muferihat, adding, “We will intensify our efforts to provide more training and resources to ensure even greater accomplishments in the future.” The Minister also emphasized that skill development has been a core agenda of the government's reform efforts, with tangible results seen in both training programs and technology transfer. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working with relevant institutions to expand and enhance youth-focused innovation programs across the country. “The results of this international competition are a victory not only for the winners but for Ethiopia’s entire skills development sector,” she added. The medalists expressed their gratitude for the recognition and support they received. They also reiterated their commitment to continuing their work on impactful, locally relevant technologies that can benefit not only Ethiopia but the broader BRICS community. “We’ve proven that Ethiopian youth can compete and succeed at the global level. We’re inspired to keep building solutions that address real-world problems,” said gold medalist Zelalem Endalew. The Ministry also pledged to strengthen collaboration with stakeholders to expand training in cutting-edge technologies and promote innovation across the nation.

Addis Ababa, August 25, 2025 (ENA)—A road has been inaugurated in Japan in honor of Ethiopian legendary athlete Abebe Bikila. The Ethiopian delegation led by Minister of Industry, Melaku Alebel, took part in a ceremony to name a road after the legendary athlete Abebe Bikila in Kasama city, Japan. The event took place in line with the conclusion of TICAD-9, which was held in Yokohama, Japan. During the occasion, Minister Melaku highlighted that the event deepens the longstanding ties between Ethiopia and Japan. He said the occasion signifies a new chapter in the bonds between the two countries, referencing a Japanese saying that states, "a true friendship is an eternal treasure." He expressed his gratitude to the government and people of Japan in general and that of the residents and leadership of Kasama city for paying tribute to one of Ethiopia's most beloved national heroes. Ethiopia's Ambassador to Japan, Ambassador Daba said the Ethiopian and Japanese people will commemorate this important day as a truly extraordinary event, signifying a milestone for the new generation to remember the legendary athlete. The Mayor of Kasama city, Yamaguchi Shinju, during his welcoming remarks, said the road would further enhance the ties between the two nations. He also emphasized that this initiative signifies an important step towards strengthening the relationship between the two countries. It was noted that the decision to name this road in honor of the late Abebe Bikila, whose remarkable triumph at the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games inspired the world, is a profoundly significant gesture. This triumph not only instilled immense pride in Ethiopia but also established a lasting bond with the people of Japan.

Addis Ababa, August 24, 2025 (ENA) -- Ethiopia possesses significant potential in sports like basketball despite challenges in nurturing young talent, according to Carlos Thornton, a former professional American football player who started Tasty Baller Sports Club & Coach Carlos on ProCamp Youth Development Initiative in Ethiopia. Carlos Thornton, who has spent the past 20 years providing basketball training for youths across Ethiopia, America, and other countries, said that Ethiopia has immense potential to develop its youth to become competitive basketball players. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Thornton, who transitioned from a successful football career in the U.S. to basketball in Israel, emphasized the importance of providing training to youths between 7 to 21 years old. “We have been committed to developing these students for the past 20 years,” he stated.   He believes that Ethiopian youth possess immense potential in sports like basketball, but many have not received the necessary support and training to thrive. “These kids (those he trains) can play at an international level,” he asserted, highlighting their ability to compete with teams from neighboring countries like South Sudan, envisioning that a great basketball international team is emerging from Ethiopia. "My ultimate goal is to see Ethiopians compete on the world stage, including at the Olympics", he stated. It’s about instilling a team concept, unity, and leadership, he noted, stressing the importance of developing both on-court skills and off-court character, Thornton emphasized. According to him, many youth in Ethiopia lack opportunities, with parents often prioritizing their children's careers with traditional paths in fields like medicine and engineering over sports.   Every child is not destined to be an architect or an engineer, and some are born to be athletes, he argued, emphasizing that providing these children with opportunity ignites their hopes and dreams. Moreover, he underlined the critical role of community involvement, urging Ethiopians to support the youth in achieving their aspirations. Ethiopians are brilliant, smart, and affiliated, Thornton stated, emphasizing that commitment and dedicating time to developing youth talents are essential. Finally, he expressed his optimism about Ethiopia's future in basketball, taking the view that with increased support and unity, the nation can foster a new generation of outstanding athletes in this regard.

Addis Ababa, May 16, 2025 (ENA) --- The Ethio Telecom Great Run will take place in Bokoji, a city globally recognized as the birthplace of numerous elite Ethiopian athletes, on May 25, 2025. The event marks the 3rd city race in the "'Discover Ethiopia Classics" series in a collection of 4 races planned to take place in regional cities. Briefing the media today, Tourism State Minister Endegena Abebe said the government's strategic vision is to position Bokoji, a city globally recognized as the birthplace of numerous elite Ethiopian athletes, as a central hub for sports tourism development. "Our core aim is to leverage the power of athletics to drive economic development in areas like Bokoji," he stated, highlighting plans to significantly boost investment in sports tourism, particularly within the hospitality sector. He articulated the ambition for Bokoji to evolve into a renowned destination akin to Eldoret in Kenya, which is celebrated for both its athletic prowess and thriving tourism industry. Culture and Sport Tourism State Minister, Mekuye Mohammed, noted Ethiopia's considerable untapped potential in benefiting from the sport sector, stressing the need for dedicated efforts in this regard.   On his part, Bokoji Deputy Mayor Bezu Abebe affirmed the city's readiness to welcome participants and guests. He said a total of three thousand participants are expected to attend the event and athletes from ten countries to take part in the run.

Addis Ababa, May 2, 2025 (ENA) -- Ethiopian athletes celebrated victories in both the men's and women's half marathon events at the 5th Eastern Africa Police Chiefs Cooperation (EAPCCO) Sports Competition. The event, held to commemorate the 116th anniversary of the Ethiopian Police, brought together police athletes from Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Djibouti. The half marathon, starting and finishing at Summit Square, showcased a dominant performance by the Ethiopian team, which secured all three podium positions in both races. In the men’s competition, Addisu Gobena claimed first place, with Simatchew Wolde taking second and Balew Yehune finishing third. In the women’s event, Meselech Alemayehu won gold, followed by Gadisi Mulu in second place and Shuko Gamamo in third. Assistant Commissioner Markos Genet, the Coordinator of the EAPCCO Sports Competition, highlighted that the event featured six sports: athletics, boxing, target shooting, darts, taekwondo, and handball. He stressed that the competition's goal is to promote unity and strengthen collaboration among police forces in the East African region. Addisu Gobena and Meselech Alemayehu, the half marathon winners, credited their success to rigorous training. Addisu emphasized the high level of competition, stating that many competitive athletes participated in the race, and expressed his happiness at being a winner among them. Kenyan police officer Ruguru also spoke positively about the event, stating, “Everything is very good. The competition between Ethiopia and Kenya was anticipated. It provided me with valuable experience for future preparation, and I am very pleased about it.”

Addis Ababa, April 28, 2025 (ENA) -- Ethiopia’s Police Force is not only a guardian of law and order; it is also a symbol of excellence in sports, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh said. The 5th edition of the East Africa Police Chiefs Cooperation Organization (EAPCCO) Games is underway in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Speaking at the opening ceremony, the deputy prime minister said more than a century ago, Ethiopia became a pioneer for the continent by establishing one of Africa’s first modern police institutions. “Today, we proudly opened the 5th Edition of the EAPCCO Games, in Addis Ababa marking the 116th anniversary of the founding of the Ethiopian Police,” he said. Over the past seven years, through bold reforms, the Ethiopian Federal Police has been reborn stronger, more independent, and more efficient, the deputy prime minster added. It stands today as a proud institution, rooted in history and built for the future. According to the deputy prime minister, “Ethiopia’s police force is not only a guardian of law and order — it is also a symbol of excellence in sports.’’ Through the Omedla Sport Club, it has produced athletes who have raised our flag high on the world stage, reminded us that discipline, teamwork, and perseverance know no boundaries, Temesgen noted. The deputy prime minister added “This competition is about more than just sports. It’s about building trust. It’s about forging friendships. It’s about working together, side by side, toward a common purpose.” Ethiopian Federal Police (EFP) Commissioner General Demelash Gebremichael extended a warm welcome to delegations from Djibouti, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, South Sudan, and Uganda.   “As we commemorate the 116 National Police Day on May 4, we take pride in hosting the 5th EAPCCO Games in Ethiopia, reaffirming our commitment to regional cooperation,” the commissioner general stated. This game is not solely concentrated on winning or losing, he said, adding it is fundamentally aimed at promoting peace and security among member states of the EAPCCO. The commissioner general also said “We seek foster collaboration through the medium of sports. Moreover, this sport event offers a platform of participants to showcase their talents, exchange experiences and build strong relationships.” As the police institutions play a pivotal role in preparing athletes for prestigious occasions such as the Olympics and other international contests. EAPCCO Games would be instrumental in identifying promising athletes to represent their respective countries. The competition, which runs until May 4, features over 400 athletes from member states, competing across six sports disciplines.

Addis Ababa, April 27, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia’s Tigist Assefa smashed the women-only world record by 26 seconds at the TCS London Marathon, running 2:15:50* to win the World Athletics Platinum Label road race on Sunday (27). The Olympic silver medallist kicked away from Kenya’s Joyciline Jepkosgei to clinch her first London Marathon win after finishing second to Peres Jepchirchir last year. Jepchirchir’s winning mark of 2:16:16 a year ago had also been a women-only world record and that is the mark Assefa improved, finishing strongly to win by almost three minutes ahead of Jepkosgei (2:18:43). Olympic champion Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands was third (2:18:59). Given the strength of the field, the women-only world record was always the target. With that in mind, the lead group of Jepkosgei, Assefa, Hassan and Megertu Alemu followed the pacemakers through 5km in a blistering 15:34 – not only inside the targeted 2:15 pace, but on sub-2:12 rhythm. The quartet maintained that pace through 10km, hitting that mark in 31:16. Assefa and Jepchirchir broke away by the halfway point, which they passed in 1:06:40, 10 seconds ahead of Hassan. The leading pair continued to move away from the rest of the field and after 35km was reached in 1:52:12, Assefa made a break. A 5:03 24th mile made the difference and by 40km Assefa was 56 seconds ahead. She finished hard to stride over the finish line in 2:15:50 – the third-fastest marathon of her career behind the 2:11:53 she ran to win in Berlin in 2023, a mark that at the time was a world record for a women’s marathon in a mixed race, and her 2:15:37 also from Berlin in 2022. A short while later, the men’s race was won by Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe in 2:02:27 – the second-fastest ever London Marathon time. Uganda’s world half marathon record-holder Jacob Kiplimo was second on his marathon debut, clocking 2:03:37.

Addis Ababa, April 24, 2025 (ENA) -- The general assembly of the African Taekuando has re-elected Ide Issaka as president, and Ethiopian, Nigerian as well as Moroccan vice presidents to run the union for the next four years today. In its assembly held in Addis Ababa, Niger's Ide Issaka was re-elected as president, and the Ethiopian Dawit Asfaw, Nigerian Jonathan Nnaji and Mohammed Mouloud Elgairaa of Morrocco as vice presidents of the union. The African Taekuando Union President Ide Issaka pledged on the occasion to transform Taekuando across Africa through training and improving opportunities for African young generation.   “What we wish to do is work hard to develop Taekuando allover Africa,” the president said. Culture and Sport State Minister, Mekiyou Mohammed, stated that Taekuando has become more than sport. It is a cultural movement that speaks to the aspiration of young people. According to him, Taekuando has become a transformative force in many corners of Africa, offering young people not just structure and purpose but also a global stage on which to stand and shine. He added that Ethiopia, through its sport-tourism strategy and policy support for international events, reaffirms its belief in sport as a vital driver of unity, economic opportunity and cultural diplomacy.

Addis Ababa, March 31, 2025 (ENA) -- A contract agreement for the completion of the Adey Ababa International Stadium Phase II Lot 2 remaining works was signed today between Ethiopia's Ministry of Culture and Sports and China Communications Construction Company LTD (CCCC). Minister of Culture and Sports, Shewit Shanka, and Xin Bin, Deputy General Manager of CCCC has signed the contract today in Addis Ababa for the construction of the remaining works of Adey Abeba stadium. Minister Shewit, during her address, highlighted the progress made in sports development over the past seven years. She emphasized that the contract agreement is a crucial step towards finalizing the Adey Abeba International Stadium project. "Through the diplomatic efforts of the Prime Minister, we secured 57 million USD from the Abu Dhabi government seven years ago, which has enabled significant advancement in Phase II Lot 1 construction," Shewit stated. The contract, valued nearly at 139 million USD, will facilitate the continuation of construction for Phase II Lots 2 and 3. Upon completion, the stadium is designed to meet international standards set by CAF and FIFA, allowing it to host major international sporting events. " This agreement marks a significant victory for the development of sports in Ethiopia," Minister Shewit added. Xin Bin, Deputy General Manager of CCCC, expressed his company's commitment to delivering the project on schedule. "With over 20 years of experience in Ethiopia, we recognize the importance of this world-class project. We pledge to utilize our resources and expertise to ensure its timely completion," he said. General Manager of MH Engineering and advisor of the project, Mesele Haile, provided detailed insights into the project's scope. He detailed the scope of work left to complete, including; finishing work left over from phase 1, and the very complex roof construction, which carries a large percentage of the current budget. The stadium's total ground area, and facility specifications will enable it to comply with world athletic standards. It is expected that the stadium will be completed within two years. According to him, the stadium is a world class venue that meets any standards including FIFA,CAF and World Athletics. The project includes Phase 2, Lots 2 and 3, encompassing FIFA-grade roofing, cutting-edge technology installations, and premium spectator seating. The completed stadium will feature 1,200 restrooms, 800 handwashing stations, comprehensive field work, and advanced roofing and technology systems. The completion of the Adey Ababa International Stadium is expected to create a prominent venue for sports and entertainment within Ethiopia, contributing significantly to the nation's sporting landscape.

Addis Ababa, March 27, 2025 (ENA)—Botswanan Minister of Sport and Arts Jacob Kelebeng expressed his delight over Botswana's having been awarded the hosting rights for the 2026 World Athletics Relays. Global athletics body - World Athletics- has confirmed that the African nation—Botswana will host the 2026 World Athletics Relays, scheduled to take place on 2-3 May 2026. "We have done it," Kelebeng wrote on his social media account, congratulating the Botswana Athletics Association (BAA) for the milestone. This will be the first time for Botswana to host a senior world event in any sport and the first time the World Athletics relays to be hosted in Africa. The good news was announced by World Athletics president Sebastian Coe earlier Tuesday at the end of the two-day council meeting in Nanjing, China. The event is scheduled to be hosted in Gaborone, capital of Botswana, on May 2 to May 3, according to the World Athletics press release. The hosting of the world event marks a big milestone in Botswana's ascendance to the top in athletics and coincides with the country's 60th Independence celebrations in 2026. ​​​​Botswana's men 4x400m relay team is a force to reckon in the event. They are the reigning world relays champions having won gold at the 2024 event held in the Bahamas before wrapping up their season with an Olympic silver medal. The team has three world relay medals including a bronze, a silver and gold. Moreover, the Botswana team has already started preparations to defend their gold at the upcoming 2025 World Athletics Relays to be held in Guangzhou, China in May this year. Reigning Olympic 200m champion Letsile Tebogo is expected to be remain part of the team.  

Addis Ababa, March 22, 2025 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s Freweyni Hailu stormed to victory in the women 3000m race at the ongoing World Indoor Championships on Saturday 22, 2025 at the Nanjing Sports Training Centre in Nanjing, China. The 24 year-old rising star wrote her name in the history books as she became the first Ethiopian to win three medals in three different disciplines, which includes an 800m silver from 2022 and a 1500m gold two years later in Glasgow. Freweyni also adds another title at World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing, showcasing thrilling competition. She clocked an impressive time of 8:37.21, a feat that underscores her incredible talent and determination on the track. Freweyni’s first world indoor medal came in 2022 when she claimed 800m silver. She won 1500m gold in Glasgow two years later and now has a 3000m crown to add to her set. This latest victory returns Ethiopia to winning ways in the discipline after USA’s Elle St. Pierre paused the nation’s winning streak in the event last year, with athletes from Ethiopia having won 10 of the last 12 titles on offer. Freweyni had already shown her intent by arriving to the WIC Nanjing 25 as the fastest woman in the world over the 3000m, having set a world lead and personal best of 8:19.98 in Lievin where she beat three-time global champion Gudaf Tsegay to move to third on the world indoor all-time list. Competing at Nanjing’s Cube, she bided her time as the race took off, remaining behind the rest of the field while Olympic 1500m silver medallist Hull took the opposite position, making her way to the front of the pack. “To win this event, I prepared myself strongly, and I feel very happy that I won the race,” said Freweyni. “I was sick at home just before coming to Nanjing, so I stayed at the back to conserve myself before making my push. I'm healthy now, and I came here to win. “Last year I won the 1500m, now I've won the 3000m, and I'm so happy about that. I tried my best, and God helped me with the rest. I don't know how I will celebrate – my happiness is beyond me.” ​​​​​​​

Addis Ababa January 5|2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia's Dawit Wolde and Ruti Aga claimed the respective men's and women's titles, both with new course records, at the 2025 Xiamen Marathon on Sunday. Dawit clocked a winning time of two hours, six minutes and six seconds, shattering the previous record of 2:06:19 set by Kenya's Moses Cheruiyot Mosop in 2015. Tebello Ramakongoana of Lesotho took silver, 12 seconds back, while another Ethiopian runner Asefa Boki Kebebe secured bronze in 2:06:32. "The course is amazing and nice. We are lucky to have [competed in the Xiamen Marathon] this season and the weather is nice. I like this race because the atmosphere is good and it is well organized. I will come back," said Wolde. Ruti Aga captured the women's title with 2:18:46, breaking the former course record of 2:19:52 set by her compatriot Mare Dibaba Hurrsa in 2015. Gutemi Shone and Fikrte Wereta, also from Ethiopia, finished second and third respectively.   The Xiamen Marathon gained the World Athletics Elite Platinum Label in 2021. This year's event has attracted 35,000 contestants from 46 countries and regions, it was indicated. Xiamen International Marathon 2025 is an annual marathon race hosted by Xiamen Municipal Government in the coastal city of Xiamen in Fujian province, China.

Addis Ababa December 22/2024 (ENA)—Sileshi Sihin, a renowned figure in Ethiopian athletics, has been elected the president of the Ethiopian Athletics Federation. Following the 28th regular General Assembly of the Ethiopian Athletics Federation, athlete Sileshi was elected as a president of the federation for the next four years, succeeding another legendary athlete Derartu Tulu. A legendary athlete, Sileshi Sihin has earned numerous medals representing his country throughout his career. Sileshi a renowned former long-distance runner and Olympic silver medalist, his appointment marks a new era for Ethiopian athletics, as an athlete with firsthand experience steps into leadership to guide the nation’s sporting future.

Addis Ababa December 15/2024 (ENA—Ethiopia’s Nibret Melak was victorious at the Bangsaen21 Half Marathon, a World Athletics Platinum Label road race, in Chon Buri in Thailand today. In the men’s race, eight runners were tightly grouped as they reached the 10km mark in 30:41, with Nibret positioned towards the back of the pack. As the pace quickened, the lead group dwindled to four by the 15km point, where Nibret battled alongside Alexander Mutiso Munyao, Geoffrey Toroitich, and Leul Gebresilase, passing through in 45:07. In the final stretch, Toroitich initiated a break, but Nibret surged ahead, creating a decisive gap to secure victory by two seconds over his competitors. Battling humid conditions with a midnight start, he stayed with the breakaway and sealed his triumph with an unstoppable kick, crossing the line in 1:02:33.

Addis Ababa December 2/2024 (ENA) President Taye Atske Selassie has congratulated Ethiopian athletes Tamirat Tola and Sembo Alemayehu, for being winners of Male Out-of-Stadium Athlete of the Year and Women’s Rising Star award at the World Athletics Awards 2024 in Monaco. “You have done it on the giant shoulders of our legends and your success is an inspiration to our future young athletes,” the President underscored. Tamirat, who dominated the men’s marathon in Paris, has been named Male Out-of-Stadium Athlete of the Year at the World Athletics Awards 2024 in Monaco.   Similarly, athlete Sembo, who broke the record to win the women’s steeplechase champion at the World U20 title in Lima, won the Women’s Rising Star award, it was learned.  

Addis Ababa November 17/2024 (ENA) Global participants of the 24th Great Ethiopian Run International were captivated by Addis Ababa's transformative infrastructure and the iconic race experience. The 24th edition of Great Ethiopian Run International 10 Kilo meters road race held today in Addis Ababa with the participation of more than 50,000 people. This year's event held under the theme "For Every Child, Nutrition," has also attracted renowned athletes and other visitors from across the world. Conor Twomey from the USA, a participant in the 24th Great Ethiopian Run, has been exploring Ethiopia this week, visiting not only Addis Ababa but also various regions of the country. "It's my first time in Eastern Africa," Twomey expressed his excitement, "and I couldn't be prouder to see these Ethiopian people come out in force for such a grand event." “What a beautiful country, what a beautiful city! I’ve had the most amazing day participating in such a grand street running event,” he admired. For anyone who loves running, there’s a secret ground called Entoto Natural Park, located at 7,700 feet of altitude, just a few minutes away from the city, Twomey underscored. “We had the chance to run amongst the eucalyptus trees yesterday. What an absolute pleasure. This is a special place, a special city, and a special people,” he said encouraging everyone to consider joining the Great Ethiopian Run next year. Conor Twomey added that the infrastructure development in the capital is incredible. Twomey further witnessed, "I've traveled in other parts of Africa. And here, it is really impressive to see how every single street is being renovated. In Addis Ababa, there's great investment, a great sense of hope, and beautiful people and a beautiful country." Liam O'Brien from Ireland, another participant, said he was taking part in the annual Great Ethiopian Run International for the first time.   He expressed his excitement for participating in the annual 24th Great Ethiopian Run, a great experience. "Unlike today, I've never taken part in such a large and fun race. The atmosphere was incredible. The people are great. I really enjoyed it today," O'Brien expressed his excitement, commending Ethiopia for organizing such a beautiful grand sports carnival. "This makes Ethiopia proud," he added. Even though he has experience running in the New York Marathon, Berlin Marathon, and Chicago Marathon, he has never run in as big a crowd as Great Ethiopian Run. For him, it was a really unique experience to see all sorts of people, including children and young people, in such a great atmosphere. Stephen Farshing, another foreign participant, said this is his third time participating in the run and that it's beautiful.   He further added, "It's so nice to see all the people out here, the weather is very nice, and everyone's just having a good time, and so we had a good time." For him, it's a good time to bring everyone together, to see everyone in the city become one, run together, and encourage each other. It's just a very good spirit of brotherhood. Ethiopia's famous long-distance runner, Haile Gebrselassie founded the race in 2000. To commemorate the 50th anniversary of Lucy's discovery, 50,000 people participated in this year's Great Ethiopian Run international 10Km, which is organized in partnership with Ethiopia's Ministry of Tourism. Lucy is one of the oldest archeological remains of human species of 3.2 million years old. Its remains was discovered in Ethiopia 50 years ago. Every year, the Great Ethiopian Run takes place on the streets of Addis Ababa, which is currently evolving in appearance as a result of the rapid expansion of corridor development.  

Addis Ababa November 17/2024 (ENA)The 24th edition of Great Ethiopian Run International 10 Kilo meters road race held today in Addis Ababa with the participation of more than 50,000 people. This year's event, held under the theme "For Every Child, Nutrition," has attracted renowned athletes from across the world. President Taye Atske Selassie, Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie, Tourism Minister Selamawit Kasa, Health Minister Mekades Daba, and other guests were present at the opening of the race. The event ranks as one of the world’s best 10km road that has been inspiring a number of Ethiopian athletes to become successful in their sports endeavors. The founder of this prestigious international event, athlete Haile Gebrselassie, said that the this race is the starting point for the success of famous athletes. As it attracts several domestic and foreign athletes as well as the diplomatic community, the Great Ethiopian Run has also been playing key role in building Ethiopia’s image and promote the country’s tourism besides its contribution to the advancement of athletics, he added. To commemorate the 50th anniversary of Lucy's discovery, 50,000 people participated in this year's Great Ethiopian Run international 10Km, which is organized in partnership with Ethiopia's Ministry of Tourism. Lucy is one of the oldest archeological remains of human species of 3.2 million years old. Its remains was discovered in Ethiopia 50 years ago. Every year, the Great Ethiopian Run takes place on the streets of Addis Ababa, which is currently evolving in appearance as a result of the rapid expansion of corridor development. Ethiopia's famous long-distance runner, Haile Gebrselassie founded the race in 2000.  

Addis Ababa November 15/2024 (ENA)-Ethiopia's Ministry of Tourism announced that the Sofi Malt Great Ethiopian Run International will enhance Ethiopia’s image and promote its tourism attractions. This year the Great Ethiopian Run international 10Km will be held for the 24th times under the theme "For Every Child, Nutrition,” on the coming Sunday in Addis Ababa. In press conference today, Minister of Tourism Selamawit Kassa shared that the Great Run will significantly contribute to tourism and development efforts in Addis Ababa. She highlighted that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the discovery of Lucy, and 50,000 participants are expected to join the race. This event will help elevate Ethiopia’s tourism development on the global stage.   Haile Gebrselassie, founder of the Great Run, stated that the Sofi Malt Great Ethiopian Run International is one of the world’s most recognized races. He urged local residents to show hospitality to international runners and to run with caution. The Sofi Malt Great Ethiopian Run International 10km offers a unique experience for runners of all levels. While attracting elite athletes, its primary goal is to encourage mass participation from local residents. The event also ranks as one of the world’s best 10km road races for international participants. This year the Great Ethiopian Run international 10Km will be held for the 24th times bringing together runners from across the world, uniting hearts and celebrating unity in diversity.

Addis Ababa October 23/2024 (ENA) A member of CAF Executive Committee and Former President of the Botswana Football Federation Maclean Letshwiti expressed confidence in Ethiopia's capacity to host the 2029 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The Confederation of African Football (CAF) 46th Ordinary General Assembly was held in Addis Ababa yesterday.   During the occasion, President Taye Atske Selassie requested CAF to endorse Ethiopia's bid for the prestigious tournament. Speaking to ENA, Letshwiti praised the warm hospitality accorded to him and CAF delegation by the Ethiopian government and people. He also stated that the positivity of the Ethiopian people regarding the development of African football goes beyond mere commitment. Noting that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stated the construction of 11 stadiums in preparation for the 2029 AFCON bid, he added, “I am so impressed, and I have no doubt that Ethiopia has the capability to stage another world-class AFCON.” “Not only in football, even politically Ethiopia is a true African state committed to the development of Africans worldwide. We will apply the standards as CAF, but I have no doubt that Ethiopia will become top in their bid.” Echoing this sentiment, Augustino Maduot Parek, President of the South Sudan Football Association, described Addis Ababa as “the Home of Africa.”   He acknowledged the significance of Ethiopia's role in the African Union and expressed enthusiasm for the country's infrastructure improvements, which will benefit both local communities and regional unity through football. Moreover, as vice President of the Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA), I am proud that Ethiopia is a member, he said. He recalled that Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda will host the 2027 Edition of AFCON. “We will be happy if we get also another opportunity for Ethiopia to host the 2029 AFCON; for me as a person, it's something very grateful for our region, as well as for the CAF.” However, there are many procedures and factors to consider regarding the level of AFCON organization, he said, adding, “For those of us in the region, we feel Ethiopia is like our home. Anything that helps develop infrastructure or brings joy to the people of Ethiopia is our joy.”