Nat'l Dialogue Golden Opportunity to Address Ethiopia’s Challenges: Participants

Addis Ababa, August 14, 2026 (ENA) — Participants of Ethiopia’s National Dialogue Conference said the forum has created a huge opportunity for free expression of ideas and for addressing longstanding challenges.

The National Dialogue Conference has been underway at the Addis International Convention Center since July 15, 2026.

Around 4,000 participants representing Ethiopians from across the country and the diaspora have been engaged in in-depth and inclusive discussions aimed at building consensus on the eight major agenda pillars.

Speaking to ENA, some participants said the ideas being raised during the dialogue contribute to sustainable nation-building.

One of the delegates representing a civil society organization, Abdisa Abebe, said the dialogue has brought together representatives of different sections of society from across Ethiopia, providing an opportunity for everyone to freely present their views.

The forum has created space for diverse ideas to be raised without restriction, enabling participants to discuss challenges and develop solutions that can serve not only the present but also future generations, he added.

The ideas emerging from the dialogue, according to Abdisa, will help Ethiopia to advance toward sustainable peace, greater development and prosperity, while also making a significant contribution to building the country's democratic system.

For his part, Simahegn Engiso, a representative of the Sidama Liberation Movement, said the National Dialogue represents a historic opportunity, describing it as the first time in Ethiopia's history that such a large number of people have come together for consultations.

He said participants are discussing the various ideas being raised and gradually moving toward a common understanding.

The dialogue has created a huge opportunity to develop lasting solutions to the country's challenges, Simahegn stated, adding that this could help hand over a better Ethiopia to the next generation.

The representative further noted that the National Dialogue will contribute to strengthening Ethiopia's multinational character and enabling the country to play a more positive role beyond Africa at the global level.