Ethiopia to Continue Leading Role in Shaping Africa’s Narrative, Says Bikila Hurisa

Addis Ababa, June 18, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia will continue to play a leading role in shaping Africa’s narrative by strengthening African digital content creation and storytelling, Minister Coordinator for Democracy System Building Center at the Office of the Prime Minister, Bikila Hurisa said.

The minister made the remarks during a recognition ceremony honoring stakeholders who contributed to the success of the inaugural African Social Media Influencers Summit (ASMIS) 2026, held in Addis Ababa from May 7–8.

The summit brought together social media influencers, digital creators, and communication professionals from across the continent to discuss the future of Africa’s rapidly evolving digital landscape and the role of Africans in shaping their own stories.

Organized by The Pulse of Africa (POA) media and AGA Tech Enterprises, the event was hosted at the Adwa Victory Memorial and included visits to major development and tourism projects in Addis Ababa and other parts of the country.

ASMIS 2026 aimed to project the authentic image of Africa to the world while empowering Africans to take ownership of the continent’s digital transformation and narrative.

The recognition ceremony was attended by senior government officials and media leaders, including Bikila Hurisa, Tourism State Minister Endegena Abebe, Ethiopian News Agency and Pulse of Africa media CEO Seife Deribe, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Nebiat Getachew, and AGA Tech Enterprises Deputy Head Abdi Tena.

Speaking at the event, Bikila emphasized that telling Ethiopia’s true stories and presenting authentic narratives serves as an inspiration and reference point for other African countries.

He noted that Ethiopia is increasingly gaining international recognition as an anchor state, thanks in part to the positive narratives being amplified through African media outlets and digital platforms.

He further noted that media institutions have a crucial responsibility in challenging misinformation and negative perceptions about Ethiopia and Africa, urging stakeholders to further strengthen their collective influence.

Bikila also underscored the vital role of African social media influencers in promoting accurate, balanced, and constructive narratives about the continent.

Tourism State Minister Endegena Abebe said the summit significantly contributed to enhancing Ethiopia’s image and visibility, stressing that nation-building is a shared responsibility of all Ethiopians.

He added that the collaboration forged through ASMIS was instrumental in showcasing Ethiopia’s vast tourism potential and affirmed the Ministry of Tourism’s commitment to working closely with relevant stakeholders to promote the country’s rich attractions and opportunities to the world.

Ethiopian News Agency and Pulse of Africa media CEO Seife Deribe said the summit brought together around 200 Ethiopian and African influencers whose combined reach exceeds 480 million followers.

Describing ASMIS as a landmark event, Seife said the summit highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing development efforts, including Addis Ababa’s corridor development initiatives, while also showcasing the country’s diverse tourism assets.

He stressed the importance of leveraging African influencers to amplify positive and authentic stories about Ethiopia and the continent as a whole.