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Daily News Ethiopia
May 18, 2026 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has underscored data sovereignty as a strategic pillar of national development, emphasizing the importance of building strong domestic capacity for data collection, analysis, and evidence-based policymaking.
May 18, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 18, 2026 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has underscored data sovereignty as a strategic pillar of national development, emphasizing the importance of building strong domestic capacity for data collection, analysis, and evidence-based policymaking.
The Prime Minister made the remarks following his attendance at the National Summit and exhibition on statistical sovereignty held in Addis Ababa under the theme “Data Sovereignty for Policy Autonomy,” which brought together senior government officials, policymakers, and development partners to deliberate on Ethiopia’s data and statistical reform agenda.
In a social media post after the event, the Prime Minister described the summit as a reflection of what he called a “monumental achievement” in Ethiopia’s journey toward data and statistical sovereignty, highlighting progress in strengthening nationally owned data systems.
May 18, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 18, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia has reaffirmed its strategic push toward strengthening data sovereignty and evidence-based policymaking as a summit session focusing on statistical development and policy autonomy convened in Addis Ababa today in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and senior government officials.
According to a statement from the Office of the Prime Minister, the session—held under the theme “Data Sovereignty for Policy Autonomy”—reflects Ethiopia’s firm shift toward documenting its development ambitions and achievements through data and statistical evidence.
The Office stated that Ethiopia has “firmly embarked on documenting its development ambitions and achievements through data and statistical evidence,” describing this as a major step in reducing reliance on fragmented and externally supported data systems.
May 18, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 18, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos today received the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Eng. Waleed Elkhereiji, for discussions on bilateral relations and regional issues of common interest.
During the meeting, Foreign Minister Gedion noted that Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia enjoy longstanding historical relations anchored in enduring people-to-people ties. He stated that, given the strong interconnectedness between the two countries, they share convergent views on many issues of mutual importance.
He underscored the need to further strengthen the relationship for the benefit of the two countries.
The Minister also emphasized the importance of safeguarding the wellbeing of Ethiopian citizens in Saudi Arabia and promoting the provision of legal employment opportunities for Ethiopian workers.
May 18, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 18, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia is advancing wide-ranging reforms aimed at building a unified, real-time and sovereign national data system designed to strengthen evidence-based governance, planning, and development management, officials said during the National Summit on Statistical Sovereignty in Addis Ababa.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister of Planning and Development Fitsum Assefa said Ethiopia is transitioning from externally dependent data systems toward a self-reliant framework rooted in domestic capacity.
She noted that expanded household, tourism, and business surveys are supporting ongoing reforms and strengthening the Ten-Year Development Plan while enhancing predictive policymaking.
Director-General of the Ethiopian Statistical Service (ESS), Abdulaziz Shefa, said Ethiopia is shifting national statistics to the center of development planning, emphasizing progress from paper-based systems to digital data collection.
May 18, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 18, 2026 (FMC) — Sudanese journalist Rasha Awad said recent escalation by the Sudanese Armed Forces against Ethiopia does not reflect Sudan’s national agenda, but is instead linked to what she described as an “Egyptian agenda” associated with disputes over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).
Speaking in an interview with Fana Arabic Podcast, Awad said the recent developments come amid the growing complexities of the conflict in Sudan, which has now entered its fourth year. She noted that the continuation of the war risks creating broader regional and international complications.
Awad stressed that resolving the Sudanese crisis must begin internally through ending the war and achieving peace, warning against the expansion of the conflict into wider regional confrontations.
May 18, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 17, 2026 (FMC) — A high-level Inter-Elite Dialogue aimed at strengthening peace, security, and regional cooperation across the Horn of Africa has opened in Jigjiga, Somali Region of Ethiopia, bringing together senior political leaders, policymakers, diplomats, and security officials from across the region.
The two-day forum, held under the theme “Strengthening Regional Agency for Durable Peace in the Horn of Africa,” is jointly organized by the Institute of Foreign Affairs, the Centre for Responsible and Peaceful Politics, the Hankaal Institute, and the Somali Region administration.
The forum has convened senior officials and delegates from Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, and Djibouti amid growing calls for regional-led solutions to persistent security and political challenges in the Horn of Africa.
May 18, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 18, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s National Election Board (NEBE) says preparations for the country’s 7th General Elections are advancing steadily across the country as the nation approaches polling day on June 1, 2026.
The Board announced that assessments conducted in collaboration with political parties, civil society organizations and other stakeholders indicate that the overall environment remains conducive for the peaceful and orderly conduct of the elections in most parts of the country.
The findings were presented following field assessments carried out by joint monitoring teams tasked with evaluating electoral readiness and the broader operational environment ahead of the polls.
According to NEBE, the assessment process reviewed the ability of political parties to freely conduct their activities and engage with the public, alongside broader logistical and institutional preparations related to the electoral process.
May 18, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 18, 2026 (FMC) — Addis Ababa City Administration Mayor Adanech Abiebie said the city’s prosperity journey is being driven not only by beautification projects in the capital’s center, but also by transforming previously neglected and underutilized areas into thriving centers of development and economic activity.
In a message shared on her social media page captioned “Gelan Gura, Legacy of Prosperity,” the mayor said the city administration is undertaking extensive efforts aimed at improving the livelihoods of residents and expanding development beyond the traditional urban core.
She emphasized that the breadth and depth of the city’s prosperity journey is measured not only by improving and beautifying the heart of the capital, but also by identifying underutilized areas and converting them into engines of growth and structural transformation.
May 18, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 18, 2026 (FMC) — The National Summit on Statistical Sovereignty and Integrated Development Management (SSIDM) has commenced in Addis Ababa in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.
The Summit brought together senior government officials, policymakers, development partners, experts, and stakeholders from institutions engaged in statistics, digital governance, and development planning.
Organized by the Ministry of Planning and Development under the theme “Building a Data-Driven Future for Ethiopia,” the summit focuses on strengthening integrated, sovereign, and digitally enabled governance and development management systems in the country.
According to information published on the summit’s official website, discussions at the event are centered on statistical sovereignty, digital transformation, secure data systems, climate governance, and unified economic monitoring mechanisms.
May 17, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 17, 2026 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said necessary support will be provided to ensure the Gode Fertilizer Factory under construction in Somali Regional State is completed ahead of schedule, stressing that the project is being closely followed to address implementation challenges and accelerate progress.
Abiy made the remarks during a visit to Gode on Sunday together with African business magnate Aliko Dangote, where they reviewed ongoing construction works of the large-scale fertilizer plant being developed in partnership with the Dangote Group.
The Prime Minister said the visit reflects the government’s commitment to closely monitor and support the project, ensuring that any emerging challenges are addressed promptly to keep implementation on track and, where possible, accelerate delivery.
He emphasized that food self-sufficiency remains the country’s main agenda, noting that the fertilizer project is central to achieving this national priority.
May 17, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 17, 2026 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said construction of the Gode Urea Fertilizer Plant project in Somali Regional State is progressing steadily, with implementation activities advancing as planned across multiple sections of the site.
The Gode Urea Fertilizer Plant project, being developed by Ethiopian Investment Holdings in partnership with the Dangote Group, is a large-scale industrial fertilizer production complex designed to produce 3 million metric tons of urea annually, and is intended to strengthen Ethiopia’s agricultural productivity, food security, industrial growth, and economic self-reliance.
In a social media post shared Sunday following his visit to the project area in Gode, the Prime Minister said that the project has recorded encouraging progress, noting that he was encouraged by the steady momentum observed across the construction site, adding: “Construction activities are advancing as planned across multiple . . . . .
May 17, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 17, 2026 (FMC) – The Rural Corridor Development initiative is emerging as a strong model demonstrating how farmers’ labor and indigenous knowledge can drive meaningful change with limited resources, Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh has said.
He shared his thoughts on the progress of the initiative in a social media post following a field visit to Meira Gudina Kebele of Garawa Woreda in East Hararghe Zone, Oromia Region, where he observed watershed development activities and integrated agricultural practices.
The Deputy Prime Minister noted that the interventions go beyond environmental conservation, contributing directly to increased productivity through fruit and vegetable farming, forestry, horticulture, livestock development, and beekeeping.
He further stated that these efforts are playing a significant role in advancing Ethiopia’s broader agricultural transformation agenda and supporting national food self-sufficiency goals.
May 17, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 17, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopian Airlines continues to lead and shape Africa’s aviation industry through sustained growth, strategic investment, and operational excellence built over decades, the airline’s Group Chief Executive Officer Mesfin Tasew said on Sunday.
Mesfin made the remarks during an 8-kilometer street race organized as part of activities marking the airline’s 80th anniversary.
Reflecting on the airline’s journey since its establishment in 1946, the CEO said Ethiopian Airlines began operations with only a small fleet of aircraft before gradually expanding into one of Africa’s largest and most influential aviation groups.
He noted that the carrier now operates one of the continent’s most modern fleets, comprising advanced Boeing and Airbus aircraft, while serving more than 145 international destinations across the world.
According to Mesfin, the airline has also registered significant growth in cargo transportation, aviation training through the . . . .
May 17, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 17, 2026 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s urban agriculture initiatives are contributing to ongoing efforts to transform livelihoods and strengthen a culture of production, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh has said.
He shared his thoughts in a social media post following a field visit to agricultural development projects in Harar city implemented under the “Bounty of the Basket” program, which focuses on expanding modern urban-based production systems.
During the visit, the Deputy Prime Minister observed activities in honey production, dairy farming, and poultry development. He noted that encouraging progress is being achieved through coordinated community and government efforts to establish modern production villages for honey, milk, eggs, and fish.
He further stated that these initiatives are playing an important role in transforming the national food system and advancing Ethiopia’s drive toward food self-sufficiency.
May 16, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 16, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today inaugurated the Gelan Gura Industrial Park in Addis Ababa, describing the facility as a major contribution to the country’s industrial development, job creation, and economic growth efforts.
Constructed on 43 hectares of land, the newly inaugurated industrial park is expected to provide a conducive business environment for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) while creating employment opportunities for thousands of young people.
In a social media post shared following the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Abiy said the industrial park represents a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s journey toward prosperity and economic transformation.
He noted that the facility would enable manufacturers to expand capacity, improve productivity, and enhance competitiveness, helping them make a stronger contribution at city, national, and regional levels.
May 16, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 15, 2026 (FMC) — The Ethiopian government has reaffirmed its commitment to a citizen-focused foreign policy alongside the continued strengthening of national security and sovereignty, the Government Communication Service (GCS) said.
In a statement issued today, the GCS said Ethiopia’s expanding diplomatic engagement has contributed to enhancing the country’s standing and relevance on the global stage.
It noted that the core objective of Ethiopia’s foreign relations is to safeguard the dignity of citizens while advancing the nation’s vital interests.
According to the statement, Ethiopia’s foreign policy is guided by the principle of “neighbor first” and is grounded in regional integration as well as the values of Pan-Africanism.
May 16, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 15, 2026 (FMC) — Romania has a strong interest to strengthening its economic and political partnership with Ethiopia as the two countries prepare to mark six decades of formal diplomatic relations next year, former Romanian Prime Minister and current presidential counselor Dacian Cioloș said on Friday.
Speaking following talks with President Taye Atske Selassie at the National Palace in Addis Ababa, Cioloș said he delivered a personal message from Romanian President Nicușor Dan and described Ethiopia as one of Romania’s key partners in Africa.
The Romanian envoy noted that 2026 will mark 60 years since Romania established its embassy in Addis Ababa, adding that Bucharest is working to deepen bilateral ties through enhanced economic and political cooperation.
Cioloș also highlighted the longstanding educational relations between the two countries, noting that many Ethiopians have studied in Romania over the past several decades.
May 16, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 16, 2026 (FMC) – The Coalition for Ethiopian Unity (CEU), one of the political parties contesting Ethiopia’s upcoming general elections, held campaign activities in various parts of Addis Ababa today.
The party conducted its campaign rallies around Sidst Kilo Martyrs’ Square, Arat Kilo Patriots’ Square, as well as in the Megenagna and Bole areas of the capital, with leaders and members actively participating.
During the campaign events, the coalition presented its political platform, outlining what it says are policy options it intends to implement over the next five years if elected in the upcoming 7th general elections scheduled for 1 June 2026.
The Coalition for Ethiopian Unity, known in Amharic as Tibebir le’Ethiopia Andinet, is an opposition political alliance formed to contest the elections as a unified front.
May 16, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 16, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh has highlighted the growing impact of integrated watershed development in advancing environmental rehabilitation and agricultural transformation in Garamuleta, in Meira Gudina Kebele of Grawa Woreda, East Hararghe Zone in the Oromia Region.
In his social media post, the Deputy Prime Minister described Garamuleta as “blessed with rich history and breathtaking natural beauty,” adding that it is “becoming a shining example of agricultural development and environmental conservation.”
He further noted that the visited watershed development project “beautifully demonstrates how environmental protection and increased productivity can go hand in hand,” underscoring its role as an integrated model of rural transformation.
Temesgen emphasized that, through integrated efforts, the area is expanding fruit and vegetable farming, forestry, and broader agricultural activities, which he said are contributing significantly to the national agricultural transformation agenda.
May 16, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 16, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s Government Communication Service (GCS) has described the country’s national dialogue process as a historic and strategic undertaking that is laying the foundation for inclusive national consensus and long-term state-building, underscoring what it called the government’s sustained political commitment to the process.
In a statement, GCS said the ongoing national dialogue initiative represents a structured effort to address long-standing national issues through broad-based consultation and peaceful engagement.
The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission has completed the identification and deployment of representatives across regional states, while also conducting extensive pre-consultation activities aimed at gathering and consolidating agendas for the national discussion.
May 16, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 15, 2026 (FMC) — A new book titled “The Remaking of Addis Ababa: Transformation from 2020–2025,” documenting the Ethiopian capital’s rapid modernization and urban renewal efforts, was officially launched on Friday in the presence of senior government officials and international scholars.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh described the publication as an important historical account of Addis Ababa’s ongoing transformation.
The Deputy Prime Minister said the book, written by international scholars, serves as a valuable historical record of the city’s journey toward modernization and reflects the scale of change witnessed in recent years.
He noted that Addis Ababa is steadily evolving into a modern, livable, and attractive city for future generations, adding that the capital is turning long-held aspirations for change into reality through extensive urban development initiatives.
May 15, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 15, 2026 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said broad public participation has played a significant role in strengthening Ethiopia’s national dialogue process, as the initiative transitions into its next phase aimed at delivering tangible outcomes.
The Prime Minister made the remarks during a high-level gathering held today to review the progress of the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission since its establishment. The meeting brought together senior federal and regional government officials and included a tribute to the late Commissioner Zegeye Asfaw, who recently passed away.
In a message shared following the meeting, Prime Minister Abiy expressed appreciation to the commissioners for their patient and professional service, noting that they had worked with a high standard of ethics to advance the national dialogue process to its current stage.
May 15, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 15, 2026 (FMC) — The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission announced that it has completed agenda collection and identification activities in 1,234 woredas across the country, covering 93 percent of Ethiopia, as it outlined priorities for the next phase of the national dialogue process during a high-level review meeting held today.
The implementation report was presented in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, senior federal and regional government officials, and members of the Standing Committee of the House of Peoples’ Representatives.
During the session, the Commission presented the major activities undertaken since the launch of the national dialogue process, challenges encountered during implementation, and corrective measures introduced to address them. It also highlighted the roles expected from various stakeholders to ensure the process proceeds as planned.
May 15, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 15, 2026 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and high-level federal and regional government officials observed a minute of silence in honor of the late Zegeye Asfaw, Commissioner of the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission, during a meeting convened to review the commission’s work since its establishment.
The tribute was held as senior officials assessed the progress and activities carried out by the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission since its inception.
Zegeye Asfaw, a veteran public servant, legal expert and reform advocate, passed away earlier this week at the age of 84. He had served in several senior government positions and was widely recognized for his contribution to Ethiopia’s land reform process as well as his longstanding engagement in community development and humanitarian initiatives.
May 15, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 15, 2026 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, held discussions with the Minister of External Affairs of India Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on the sidelines of the 2026 BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi.
On the occasion, Foreign Minister Gedion noted that Ethiopia and India are countries that enjoy a longstanding bilateral relationship.
He further emphasized the importance of coordinating and consulting on issues of mutual interest in order to further strengthen bilateral ties.
The Indian Minister, on his part, conveyed his country’s keen interest in further strengthening bilateral relations.
He recalled the recent successful visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Ethiopia as testimony to the strengthening of bilateral relations between Ethiopia and India.
May 15, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 14, 2026 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, today met with Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa, Ronald Lamola on the sidelines of the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi, India.
Discussions focused on bilateral relations between the two countries and the ministers have agreed to work together to jointly address concerns over recent incidents targeting Ethiopian citizens in South Africa.
The Ethiopian Foreign Minister is attending the 2026 BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in the Indian capital.
May 15, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 15, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia has called for comprehensive reforms to global governance and multilateral systems, stressing the need for a more equitable, representative, legitimate, and just world order.
Speaking during the second day of the BRICS 2026 meeting, the Ethiopian delegation reaffirmed the country’s commitment to working within the BRICS framework and the broader multilateral system to advance inclusive global reforms.
The delegation emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between reform and continuity in efforts to reshape global governance institutions.
On the reform of the United Nations Security Council, Ethiopia reiterated its firm support for the African common position as outlined in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration. The delegation stressed that the modality of Africa’s representation should be determined solely by the continent.
May 15, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 15, 2026 (FMC) — The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) has held discussions with political parties as the country moves closer to the 7th general elections scheduled for June 1, 2026.
The engagement brought together representatives of competing political parties and senior NEBE officials to review electoral preparations, discuss challenges raised by stakeholders, and strengthen coordination ahead of the national vote.
NEBE Chairperson Ms. Melatwork Hailu stated that the consultations were aimed at addressing concerns raised by political actors during the preparation process and identifying practical solutions to ensure a credible and inclusive election.
She added that the Board also discussed expectations and responsibilities of all stakeholders within the limited time remaining before election day.
May 15, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 14, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Executive Officer Mesfin Tasew said the airline is looking ahead to expanding to new destinations, advancing innovation, and strengthening global partnerships as it marks its 80th anniversary.
The remarks were made during a Global Cultural Day and Static Airshow event hosted by Ethiopian Airlines at Ethiopian Skylight Hotel, which brought together senior government officials, diplomats, customers, and members of the international community.
Mesfin noted that the event also brought together senior officials, diplomats, and members of the diplomatic community, reflecting the airline’s global reach and long-standing international partnerships.
He said Ethiopian Airlines has been a pioneer in introducing modern aviation technologies and advanced aircraft, stressing that its fleet has remained the cornerstone of its growth and long-term development.
May 14, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 13, 2026 (FMC) — The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has praised Ethiopia’s longstanding commitment to international cooperation and its enduring role in advancing multilateralism.
Speaking at the National Palace during the launch of a commemorative stamp series marking the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, Guterres highlighted the deep-rooted partnership between Ethiopia and the UN, noting that Ethiopia was among the organization’s 51 founding members.
The Secretary-General said Ethiopia’s history as an ancient civilization that preserved its independence during the colonial era reflects the country’s national strength, adding that nations with a strong past are well positioned for a strong future.
He also commended the rapid transformation of Addis Ababa into a major diplomatic hub, describing the city’s growing global role as remarkable.
May 14, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 13, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has called for the renewal and adaptation of the multilateral system to better reflect present-day global realities, stressing the need for stronger representation, equity, and effectiveness within international institutions.
Speaking at the National Palace during the commemoration marking the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, Prime Minister Abiy said the milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on how multilateral institutions must evolve in response to a rapidly changing world.
He noted that the United Nations was established eight decades ago in the aftermath of a devastating global war, founded on the understanding that peace, dignity, and stability require cooperation among nations guided by shared principles.
May 14, 2026 - ethiositer.com
Addis Ababa, May 14, 2026 (FMC) — Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia Gedion Timothewos met and held talks with the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi on the margins of the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi.
It is noteworthy that the Ethiopian Foreign Minister is attending the 2026 BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, which runs from 14-15 May 2026 in the Indian capital.