Ethiopia Advancing Toward Capable, Modern Military

Addis Ababa, July 5, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia is steadily building a modern, resilient national defense force equipped to deter potential threats and respond effectively to national emergencies, according to Chief of Staff of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), Field Marshal Birhanu Jula.

 Field Marshal Birhanu delivered these remarks today in Addis Ababa during the 15th graduation ceremony of senior military officers from the Ethiopian Defense Command and Staff College.

 The ceremony underscored the institution's growing regional significance, with graduates including officers from various neighboring African countries.

 Elaborating on the importance of a strong military foundation in his keynote address, Field Marshal Birhanu stated that the Defense Command and Staff College continues to produce highly trained military leaders with expertise in operational warfare, tactical command, and leadership skills critical for developing a professional and capable army.

 He also noted that these graduates are a testament to the ENDF's ongoing efforts to build a well-organized and well-equipped force, ready to meet future security challenges.

The Chief of Staff also elaborated that Ethiopia has made considerable progress in defense institution building, driven by decisive leadership and the sacrifices of the armed forces.

According to him, the ENDF is now equipped with modern weapons and is focusing on strategic operations tailored to the country’s unique needs.

He further urged the new graduates to uphold military ethics and professionalism in their assignments, serving as role models within their units and emphasized the college's growing role in advancing military diplomacy, noting that its training programs for officers from across Africa contribute to strengthened regional ties.

Field Marshal Birhanu also encouraged the international graduates to use their skills to support their home countries while nurturing the friendships and partnerships formed during their training in Ethiopia, emphasizing that such collaborations are vital in elevating military diplomacy and fostering regional peace and stability.

On his part, Lieutenant General Yimer Mekonnen, Head of the ENDF Education and Training Main Department, noted the graduation as a testament to the ongoing ENDF reform agenda and the leadership's strategic vision.

The Lieutenant General emphasized that the inclusion of foreign officers boosts both academic quality and military cooperation. "The foreign graduates will serve as ambassadors of Ethiopia in their respective countries," he noted.

 Brigadier General Mulugeta Ambachew, Chief of the Ethiopian Defense Command and Staff College, on his part, explained that the college's training extends beyond theoretical knowledge, offering a practical, operational, and strategic curriculum.

This approach prepares officers for leadership roles in conventional and asymmetric warfare, peace support operations, and strategic planning, he added.

He further stressed that the training aligns with the ENDF’s strategic goals and is designed to address the complex and evolving security environment at both national and regional levels.

According to the Brigadier General, the participation of international officers from other African countries enriches the academic environment and strengthens continental cooperation, mutual respect, and shared security goals.