Diaspora Representatives Hail National Dialogue Conference as Historic Milestone for Unity,  Peace

Addis Ababa, August 28, 2026 (ENA) — Representatives of the Ethiopian diaspora have described the recently concluded National Dialogue Conference (NDC) as a historic, inclusive milestone that has brought together diverse sections of society and renewed hope for peace, coexistence, and national renewal.

Speaking to the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), UK diaspora representative Ustaz Muktar Jemal highlighted the all-inclusive nature of the process, noting that participants included members of the diaspora, persons with disabilities, women, and men from various ethnic groups and regions.

“Everyone freely and without any interference came and voiced their community’s concerns and shared their thoughts,” he said. “We all shared our concerns, pains, and inquiries. We understood one another, put ourselves in each other’s shoes, examined the issues, consulted together, and reached a major milestone.”

Ustaz Muktar described the gathering as a truly historic conference, stressing that it provided a rare opportunity for Ethiopians to listen to one another and address shared challenges.

“Ethiopia was the winner, Ethiopia ended up being the winner,” he expressed, sharing his pride in participating. “I observed a genuine desire for peace, coexistence, mutual respect, and love, with complete inclusivity throughout this conference.”

Expressing strong optimism for the nation's trajectory, Ustaz Muktar added, “I have a lot of hope for Ethiopia’s future. It gives me a great deal of hope.”

He noted that the responsibility now rests with key stakeholders to translate the conference's outcomes into concrete action, expressing full confidence in their ability to deliver on these commitments.

Gezahegn Sumamo, representing the Ethiopian diaspora in South Africa, similarly described the conference as a major breakthrough and a crucial platform for strengthening a culture of dialogue while representing diverse national perspectives.

He noted that the conference brought together wide-ranging constituencies, including adults, children, farmers, and pastoralists, through delegates selected to speak on their behalf.

“Serving as a grand stage where we consulted as trustees, it presented Ethiopia with a historic chance,” he said. “What I observed on this platform was the rich diversity of Ethiopians. Ethiopia has triumphed and established itself as a triumphant country.”

Gezahegn emphasized that the dialogue created a remarkable opportunity for Ethiopians to collectively discuss pressing national issues, attributing the success to joint efforts and a rare historical opening.

“Because we had a historic opportunity and worked together, and through that session we have been successful, I offer my congratulations to the Ethiopian people,” he said.

He also highlighted the significance of the process for the Ethiopian diaspora, stating it offered a fantastic chance to engage in national discussions, reflect on the country's challenges, and contribute insights gained abroad.

The 40-day National Dialogue Conference, held from mid-July to late August 2026 in Addis Ababa, brought together approximately 4,000 delegates representing political parties, civil society organizations, religious institutions, government bodies, former combatants, and diaspora communities.

The delegates deliberated on eight major national agendas, finalizing their recommendations at the conclusion of the event.

Following the event, the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission urged relevant institutions to move swiftly toward implementing the recommendations, describing the outcomes as hard-earned gains toward building national consensus and strengthening unity.