Ethiopia to Host First African Logistics and Communication Symposium, Bringing Together 40 Countries

Addis Ababa, July 26, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia will be hosting the inaugural 2026 African Logistics and Communication Symposium, bringing together representatives from 40 countries and 26 major international industry partners for a landmark exchange on the systems that underpin effective military and civilian operations.

A two-day first-of-its-kind continental symposium July 27 to 31 in Addis Ababa is expected to provide a high-level platform for experience sharing, innovation and practical cooperation in logistics and communication, critical capabilities increasingly central to Africa’s peace, security and humanitarian operations.

Briefing the media ahead tomorrow’s event, Major General Teshome Gemechu, Director General of External Relations and Military Cooperation at the Ethiopian National Defense Forces, said Ethiopia’s selection as host reflects the country’s contribution to regional peace and security.

 

He added that Ethiopia’s selection to host the landmark symposium underscores the country’s development achievements and Addis Ababa’s growing stature as a leading hub for major international forums.

He said the symposium will further strengthen cooperation between Ethiopia and the United States while promoting broader experience-sharing and collaboration among defence institutions across Africa.

“Logistics and communication are critical components in the success of both military and civilian missions,” Major General Teshome said, stressing the importance of stronger institutional cooperation in addressing emerging challenges.

The symposium will enable participating countries to exchange experiences, identify effective practices and jointly explore solutions to common challenges affecting logistics and communication systems.

Major General Teshome said the knowledge and expertise shared by partner countries will contribute to strengthening the logistics and communication capabilities of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces.

 

 At the same time, Ethiopia will share its own experiences with partners, further contributing to continental efforts to strengthen peace and security.

United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) Logistics Director Brigadier General Paul Felix said the United States was “pleased and honoured” to co-organize the symposium with Ethiopia.

Commending Ethiopia’s preparations, Brigadier General Felix said the event would help deepen logistics and communication cooperation between the United States and African countries.

 

He said participants would assess existing capabilities, identify gaps and challenges, and work together to develop sustainable solutions capable of strengthening operational readiness and institutional resilience.

Brigadier General Felix expressed confidence that the symposium would evolve into a productive platform for cooperation, innovation and shared learning, enabling participating countries to build stronger professional networks, enhance capabilities and contribute to greater security and prosperity.