Gov’t Committed to Implementing Consensus Reached through National Dialogue: PM Abiy Ahmed


Addis Ababa: Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has declared his government’s commitment to implementing the consensus that would be reached through the national dialogue.

At the inaugural session of the nationwide agenda setting consultative chapter held at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum today, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed took part as a stakeholder representing the government.

In his remarks at the event, the premier said Ethiopia is a country that has been experiencing wars and facing numerous challenges.

Dialogue is the solution to break this vicious history of war and upheaval, the premier noted.

“Today is a new chapter for Ethiopia,” the PM said, calling for active participation of all in this new chapter.

According to him, the aim of the national dialogue is to make Ethiopia a nation of hope by strengthening unity instead of division.

He further pointed out that properly utilizing this rare and historic opportunity for dialogue will make all winners. The prime minister urged all stakeholders not to miss th
is opportunity.

Stressing that the government has no intention of interfering in any way with the work of the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission, Abiy expressed his belief that the commissioners with extensive knowledge and experience have also no other desire than to work for the benefit of the country.

The prime minister pledged that the government is determine to implement the consensus reached through the dialogue.

In the case of agendas we do not agree, they will be subject to a referendum. And after the decision of the people, we all must respect the decision, he stressed.

Abiy stated that attempts to resolve differences and disagreements by force only create temporary winners and losers, failing to provide a lasting solution to the challenges.

He concluded that through this dialogue Ethiopia will emerge victorious without any losers.

Source: Ethiopian News Agency

Nat’l Dialogue Commission Launches Countrywide Agenda Setting Consultations


Addis Ababa: The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission has initiated a nationwide agenda setting consultative chapter in Addis Ababa with the gathering of representatives from all stakeholder groups.

The nationwide agenda setting consultative chapter kickoff in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum.

Representatives of the community, political parties, the legislative, executive, and judiciary as well as institutions and associations, influential persons were also in attendance.

Addressing the inaugural session, Chief Commissioner Mesfin Araya welcomed the attendees to the inclusive and participatory preparatory phase marking the entry into the dialogue process and agenda setting consolidation stage.

The chief commissioner reflected on the commission’s journey since its establishment by overcoming numerous challenges while steadfastly working towards the long-awaited goal of rapprochement and consensus.

He further stated that the commission has thus far facilitated
the selection of representatives for the agenda setting consultative chapter in over 1,000 districts across ten regions and 2 city administrations and commenced the process has in Addis Ababa City Administration.

Mesfin revealed that similar agenda setting consultations would follow in all regions and the Dire Dawa City Administration where participant selections have taken place.

Participants identification and selection are ongoing in the Amhara and Tigray regions.

The chief commissioner expressed his belief that the contemporary youth will leave behind a better legacy of peace and development by learning from the mistakes of the previous generations.

Moreover, he humbly appealed to the youth to transform the agenda setting platform from a grievance-venting space into an ideation and solution-generating forum, enabling a transition from a culture of conflict to a peaceful life.

The chief commissioner stated that the commission is striving to keep the door of dialogue open for all parties, regardless of
location, and find national solutions to the country’s challenges.

Any Ethiopian can submit their agenda to the commission individually or collectively during this agenda setting process, he emphasized, affirming the inclusiveness, transparency, and credibility of the process.

Source: Ethiopian News Agency

Ethiopia’s Ambassador Highlights Africa’s Remarkable Surge in Digital Drowth


Addis Ababa: Ethiopian Ambassador in India, Demeke Atnafu underscored Africa’s remarkable surge in digital growth, transforming various aspects of its socio-economic landscape.

Ambassador Demeke made the remark at the International Conference on Digital Growth in Africa to celebrate Africa Day 2024 at University of Delhi, organized by the Department of African Studies, according to Embassy of Ethiopia in New Delhi.

As a Chief Guest, the ambassador delivered speech on the topic with prelude to the important of celebrating African Day with reference to independent movement in Africa.

Ambassador Demeke underscored Africa’s remarkable surge in digital growth, transforming various aspects of its socio-economic landscape.

From the expansion of mobile connectivity to the proliferation of e-commerce platforms and the emergence of tech startups, digital technologies are reshaping how Africans interact, communicate, and do business.

With regard to Ethiopia, Ambassador Demeke highlighted that as a fast-growing econ
omy, digitization is at the core of everything in Ethiopia, such as in agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and services.

In 2020 Ethiopia initiated Digital Ethiopia 2025, a strategy that aims to leverage digitally enabled pathways to foster inclusive national prosperity through boosting economic growth, enhancing public services, and fostering social development.

Telecommunication reforms, including the liberalization of the telecom sector in 2020, have introduced competition, improved services, and made internet access more accessible and affordable.

In his concluding remark, Ambassador Demeke emphasized that through strengthened Africa -India relations, we can create a future where both regions thrive in the digital era.

Source: Ethiopian News Agency

UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction Affirms to Enhance Partnership with Ethiopia


Addis Ababa: Director of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) in Geneva, Paola Albrito has affirmed that UNDRR will continue to enhance its partnership with Ethiopia to safeguard vulnerable populations in the region from the impacts of natural disasters.

Ambassador Tsegab Kebebew held discussions with Paola Albrito, Director of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction in Geneva on Friday , according to Ethiopian permanent Mission in Geneva.

During their discussion, the Director expressed her appreciation to the Ethiopian government for its dedication to implementing initiatives and centered in building resilient communities against disasters and hazards.

She affirmed that UNDRR will continue to enhance its partnership with Ethiopia to safeguard vulnerable populations in the region from the impacts of natural disasters.

Ambassador Tsegab on his part provided an overview to the Director about Ethiopia’s activities and initiatives in the area of disaster risk and reducti
on and highlighted some of the challenges faced in the Horn of Africa region due to the effects of Climate Change, as well as the recurring droughts and floods.

The Permanent Mission of Ethiopia in Geneva is set to lead the UNDRR Support Group for duration of one year, starting from September 2024 to June 2025.

Source: Ethiopian News Agency

Gov’t Beckons Investors to Bolster Housing Development Through Public Private Partnership


Addis Ababa: The government of Ethiopia reaffirmed commitment to work with the private companies in the construction sector through Public Private Partnership.

On a bright morning in the heart of Addis Ababa, the bustling city welcomed the inauguration of a remarkable housing project carried out by Gift Real Estate, a testament to the power of collaboration between the government and private entities.

Urban Development and Construction Minister Chaltu Sani, Deputy Mayor of Addis Ababa, Jantirar Abay, executives from Gift Real Estate and other invited guests were in attendance at the inaugural ceremony.

As the ceremony unfolded, Minister Chaltu Sani expressed government’s commitment to fostering growth, praising the city’s development strategies that seamlessly integrate progress and sustainability.

Chaltu highlighted the diverse development options being explored to support infrastructure and housing projects, nurturing the nation’s urban growth.

Her words resonated with the audience as she acknowledged
the pivotal role played by public-private partnerships, crediting Gift Real Estate as a shining example of such collaborations.

Recounting Gift Real Estate’s impressive track record, which includes the successful completion of two modern condominium housing projects, Chaltu expressed her confidence in the continued intensification of government-private sector efforts to address the pressing housing challenges faced by many Ethiopians.

In a clarion call to investors, both domestic and foreign, the minister vowed to strengthen the government’s support for companies engaged in the housing construction sector.

Her invitation was a resounding endorsement of the immense potential that lies in fostering a diverse and thriving real estate industry.

Addressing the challenges posed by rising construction material costs, Chaltu advocated for a two-pronged approach: bolstering local production capabilities and embracing modern technologies. Her pragmatic vision underscored the government’s commitment to overcoming ob
stacles and ensuring the sustainable growth of the construction sector.

As the ceremony drew to a close, Gift Real Estate’s CEO, Gebreyesus Igata, took the stage, his words brimming with pride. Introducing the company’s latest marvel, a 54,000-square-meter ultra-modern village in the Lemi Kura area, he recounted the success of their previous projects in Yeka and CMC. This third village, spanning 54,000 square meters in the Feresbet area, stood as a testament to Gift Real Estate’s enduring commitment to redefining urban living.

With a track record spanning over three decades in the construction industry, Gift Real Estate has embraced a philosophy of “building communities.”

Their villages are meticulously planned to foster a harmonious blend of modern amenities and the cherished traditions of Ethiopian social life. This unique approach sets their developments apart, offering a diverse array of housing options, from towering 24-floor apartment buildings to cozy villas, town-houses, and row houses, complemente
d by an array of shops and services.

As the vibrant colors and sleek designs of the new village unfolded before the attendees’ eyes, it became evident that this project was more than just a collection of buildings; it was a celebration of innovation, collaboration, and a shared vision for a prosperous and sustainable urban future.

Source: Ethiopian News Agency

Sierra Leone Keen to Emulate from Ethiopia’s Progress: Ambassador Saffa


Addis Ababa: Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Ethiopia Harold Saffa said there are areas that Sierra Leone needs to emulate from the ongoing development progresses in Ethiopia.

Speaking to ENA, ambassador Saffa said the bilateral relationship between Ethiopia and Sierra Leone is growing.

‘This is a great nation [Ethiopia]. We want to benefit from what Ethiopia has done. The country has been able to make so much progress, because Sierra Leone is also related to Ethiopia in the sense that we are all Africans.’

By the sort of progress that Ethiopia is making; I have been in Addis Ababa since January, and I have seen the level of infrastructural development.

‘…. We in Sierra Leone are trying to place emphasis on food self-sufficiency, we want to know what Ethiopia is doing this regard.’

The two countries can exert efforts in technology or knowledge transfer So that as an Africans they can develop together, the ambassador indicated.

The ambassador also commended the ongoing infrastructure development activitie
s in Addis Ababa.

The encouraging development efforts in Ethiopia will inspire a lot of other African nations in order to be able to benefit from it, he said ‘We are glad that the African Union is sitting here in Addis Ababa.’ .

Moreover, the ambassador added that Ethiopian Airlines flights to Freetown will open up new horizons to enhance tourism cooperation between the two countries.

Ethiopian Airlines, the largest network operator in Africa, launched thrice-weekly passenger services to Freetown, Sierra Leone yesterday.

He said Sierra Leone’s pristine beaches and historic sites will now be more accessible to tourists, while the rich cultural tapestry and historical landmarks of Ethiopia awaits Sierra Leonean explorers.

‘This exchange will undoubtedly enrich our cultural landscapes, foster greater people to people ties, and promote mutual appreciation of our diverse heritages,’ Saffa noted.

The people in Ethiopia are hospitable. “When you go around the city you find a lot of smiling people welcoming you
,” the ambassador conclude.

Source: Ethiopian News Agency