UNECA Chief Hails Ethiopia as Model of Transformative Reform

Addis Ababa, June 23, 2026 (ENA)__ United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, Claver Gatete, has hailed Ethiopia as a compelling example of transformative reform.

The executive secretary cited the country’s achievements in environmental restoration, renewable energy, sustainable transport, and aviation as evidence of its growing global influence.

Speaking at the Ethiopia Delivers Summit, Gatete highlighted Ethiopia’s ambitious Green Legacy Initiative, the energy transformation driven by the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), the country’s transition toward e-mobility, and the continued expansion of Ethiopian Airlines as key pillars underpinning Ethiopia’s development trajectory.

According to the ECA Executive Secretary, these initiatives demonstrate how strategic reforms and long-term investments can drive inclusive growth while advancing sustainability and economic resilience.

Gatete further noted that Ethiopia’s rising international profile is perhaps most clearly reflected in its selection to host COP32, describing the decision as a powerful recognition of the country's leadership on climate action and sustainable development.

 

“The choice of Ethiopia to host COP32 sends a strong message that Africa is not merely responding to global challenges but is increasingly helping shape solutions and lead global conversations,” he emphasized.

Reaffirming the ECA’s commitment to Ethiopia’s development agenda, Gatete pledged the Commission’s continued support for the country’s reform efforts and broader aspirations for economic transformation, while underscoring the importance of advancing Africa’s collective development objectives.

The summit, held under the theme “From Reform to Lasting Change,” also featured remarks by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who called on Ethiopians to sustain the momentum of national development and build on the gains achieved through years of reform.

The Prime Minister stressed that nation-building remains a shared and ongoing responsibility, requiring the active participation of all citizens.

Reflecting on landmark achievements such as the GERD, the Premeir noted that Ethiopia’s progress is the result of deliberate choices rooted in the spirit of Medemer—a philosophy centered on unity, cooperation, and collective advancement.

 

“Our reforms are not an end in themselves; they are the foundation we lay for the generations that will come after us,” Abiy stated.

Highlighting the intergenerational nature of development, the Prime Minister urged Ethiopians to carry forward the achievements of today and strive for even greater progress in the future.

“I call on every Ethiopian to carry this spirit forward, to receive what we have built, and to rise higher still,” he said.