Addis Ababa, February, 23, 2025 (POA)—Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh stated that Ethiopia has planted 8.5 billion improved species of coffee seedlings in five years to boost coffee productivity and sustainability. The Deputy Prime Minister also announced that Ethiopia has been chosen to host the fourth G25 African Coffee Summit in 2027, following a successful proposal at the recent summit in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. In his keynote speech to the third G-25 African Coffee Producing Countries Summit in Dar es Salaam, Temesgen asserted Ethiopia holds deep cultural and historical ties to coffee. Emphasizing its position as the birthplace and Africa's leading producer, the Deputy PM stated country is committed to boosting coffee production and quality. According to him, the effort has been bearing fruit, adding that the country exported nearly 300,000 tons of coffee last year. And it generated 1.43 billion dollars in revenue, the Deputy Prime Minister pointed out. Although the Ethiopian coffee sector faces challenges, including climate change, price volatility, and policy shifts, Ethiopia has introduced a new policy focused on high-quality, climate-resilient, and environmentally sustainable farming to address these, he said. The planting of 8.5 billion improved species of coffee seedlings is a crucial step for ecosystem enhancement, forest conservation, and maintaining premium coffee quality, he emphasized, adding that this also creates job opportunities and empowering youth and women as coffee producers. The Deputy Prime Minister also recognized coffee as a strategic product within the African Union's Agenda 2063 and expressed support for a continental agency dedicated to the transformation of Africa's coffee industry. He highlighted the importance of boosting productivity, expanding consumer markets, strengthening intra-African coffee trade, and increasing investment. Ethiopia remains dedicated to enhancing its standing in the global coffee market and ensuring coffee's role as a major economic catalyst for Africa.  

Addis Ababa, February, 22, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia is driving results through bold reforms, increasing revenue and opportunity in the sector, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh remarked at the third G-25 Africa coffee summit. The third G-25 Africa coffee summit was held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania and brought together Heads of State, Ministers, coffee authorities and Institutions, and private sector stakeholders from African coffee-producing countries. Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh participated in a two-day Summit that kicked off yesterday.   “At the 3rd G25 African Coffee Summit in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, leaders came together to strengthen research and cooperation, unlocking the full potential of our continent’s coffee industry,” Temesgen said in a social media post. The Deputy Prime Minister also underscored that Ethiopia is driving results through bold reforms, increasing revenue and opportunity in the sector. “As Africa’s top coffee producer, Ethiopia is driving results through bold reforms, increasing revenue and opportunity in the sector. Under the theme Unlocking Employment Opportunities for Youth through the Regeneration of the African Coffee Industry, we engaged in critical discussions on how to stimulate growth and create widespread jobs,” he said.   The birthplace of coffee, home to the rich and sought-after flavors of Coffea Arabica, is right here in Africa, the Deputy PM added. In response to Ethiopia’s proposal, the summit decided that Addis Ababa would host the fourth G25 African Coffee Summit in 2027—an opportunity we embrace with deep responsibility, he indicated

Addis Ababa, February, 22, 2025 (ENA)—The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is a source of inspiration for the collective pursuit of riparian countries towards sustainable development, President Taye Atske Selassie said. Speaking at the Nile Day 2025 regional celebration commemorated in Addis Ababa today, he noted that the “GERD demonstrates how innovation and the quest for development unite riparian countries in search of a prosperous and climate resilient future. It is a source of inspiration for our collective pursuit towards sustainable development.” According to him, the dam is a transformative project that exemplifies to mitigate impacts of climate change as well as ensure consistent and reliable water supply for agricultural and domestic use across the basin. “The GERD is a transformative project that amplifies our efforts not only to mitigate the impacts of floods and prolonged droughts but also ensure the consistent and reliable water supply for agricultural and domestic use across the basin. It is a cutting edge water management capabilities reducing flood damage of downstream countries while safeguarding water availability during dry periods.”   Furthermore, the president noted that GERD, with its vast hydropower capacity, generates clean and renewable energy that drives industrialization and distribution of power across the region, reducing dependency on fossil fuels and lowering the greenhouse gas emission. For the president, River Nile is an embodiment of a shared aspiration and common objective of Nile Riparian countries of the region. “For anyone who travels around the basin countries or lives at both ends of the river imparted wisdom that River Nile is an embodiment of shared aspiration and common objective,” he stated, adding that “this gathering will enable us to meet the aspiration of our people and deal with the mounting challenges we face to our collective endeavors.” The president pointed out that it is the time for engaging in a constructive deliberation and strengthening Nile basin countries cooperation for climate resilience and shared prosperity, while addressing the many challenges posing an increasing threats to Nile Basin countries such as population growth, climate change, prolonged drought, rapid urbanization, devastating floods and competing interest for water resources demand for climate resilient hydraulic infrastructures. Reaffirming Ethiopia's commitment to redoubling efforts in water resources management cooperation and inclusive decision making that genuinely reflects the interest of all riparian countries, President Taye also called upon member states of Nile Basin Initiative to remain resolute to their commitment to cooperation and work towards a permanent Nile River organization that will provide institutional framework for coordinating management, dispute resolution, and long term strategic planning for shared water resources.   The president finally urged development partners to continue their support in facilitating investments in climate resilient infrastructure, data sharing and capacity building programs as well as the academic and research institutions to provide evidence based solution to climate change and for equitable water resource share, making Nile River a truly intergenerational wealth. “For anyone who travels around the basin countries or lives at both ends of the river imparted wisdom that River Nile is an embodiment of shared aspiration and common objective, he stated, adding that “this gathering will enable us to meet the aspiration of our people and deal with the mounting challenges we face to our collective endeavors.” Ethiopia's Water and Energy Minister Habtamu Itefa pointed out that the growing population within the Nile Basin, projected to exceed 1 billion by 2050, exacerbates the challenges posed by climate change, particularly in relation to water availability.   “No part of Nile basin is immune from the diverse effects of climate change. It is, therefore, essential that all the basin countries and international community need to take steps to build climate resilience and protect our shared natural resources,” he added. Genuine cooperation enhanced by legal institution mechanisms is therefore needed to lead to better climate resilience and shared prosperity, the minister stated. Noting that the majority of Nile Basin countries have committed to evaluating their level of cooperation by ratifying the Nile Basin Cooperative Framework Agreement, which is now in effect and has led to the establishment of the Nile Basin Commission, Habtamu urged the remaining member states to ratify the agreement to operationalize the commission and advance the cooperative agenda. On her part, Nile Basin Initiative Executive Director, Florence Grace Adongo, encouraged member states to dedicate a day to national celebrations of Nile Day, aimed at raising awareness and sharing knowledge about the significance of Nile cooperation.   She also reaffirmed the commitment of Nile Basin countries to cooperate for shared development and peace in the region, stating that successful joint regional investments serve as a testament to the power of collaboration. “NBI demonstrates that when member states work together barriers can be overcome and opportunities unlocked for economic growth. The successes that we have in the joint regional investments are testament to the power of cooperation.”

Addis Ababa, February 22, 2025 (POA)—UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) Executive Secretary, Claver Gatete emphasized the crucial role of South Africa's G-20 presidency in advancing actionable solutions to global challenges disproportionately affecting Africa. The Executive Secretary remarked at the G-20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Johannesburg. According to him, the G-20 Summit is a defining moment as the world today is experiencing profound geopolitical shifts marked by escalating conflicts, economic uncertainties and a widening trust deficit in multilateralism. “While Africa is not the instigator of these global crises, it remains among the most affected.” Gatete pointed to the devastating impacts of climate change, leading to food insecurity and displacement, and the economic fallout from external shocks like rising debt burdens and volatile commodity markets. “Today, 1.1 billion people live in acute multidimensional poverty, with over half of them being children,” he said. “Furthermore, it is unacceptable that 3.3 billion people reside in countries that spend more on debt service than on development,” the executive secretary remarked. He cited the recent floods in Libya, prolonged droughts in the Horn of Africa, and the lingering economic effects of the pandemic as stark reminders of the urgent need for coordinated global action. Without decisive intervention, Gatete expressed concern that Africa’s development trajectory will be significantly constrained. The UNECA chief stressed the G20's responsibility and capacity to shape global responses. Particularly, he emphasized the importance of rebuilding trust in multilateralism. To be effective, we must restore trust in multilateralism, he urged. “We need a commitment to a more inclusive and equitable global governance system – one that does not merely recognize Africa’s challenges but actively integrates African voices and priorities in crafting solutions,” Gatete added. Underscoring the need to respond boldly, Gatete outlined key areas of action including reforming the global financial architecture to ensure Africa's access to development financing, debt relief, and climate finance solutions. “Sovereign debt distress remains an existential threat, with 20 African countries in or at risk of distress due to debt obligations exceeding 1.1 trillion USD,” he mentioned. The failure of the G20 Common Framework for debt resolution underscores the urgency of systemic reform, he added. Gatete also underscored the importance of upholding principles of peace and security through proactive diplomacy, conflict prevention, and regional stabilization efforts. Moreover, the executive secretary stressed the need for leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to strengthen economic resilience and facilitate inclusive industrialization. Gatete expressed optimism that South Africa's G20 presidency, particularly through initiatives like the Cost of Capital Commission and Task Forces on Economic Growth, Food Security, and Digital Innovation, offers a vital opportunity to advance these solutions. Africa is ready to be a constructive partner to build a more stable, prosperous and inclusive world, he added.

Addis Ababa, February 22, 2025 (ENA)—The Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC) has been intensifying new strategies to attract more international corporations and leverage the country’s ongoing transformation. Commissioner of the EIC, Zeleke Temesgen told ENA that Ethiopia is strategically positioning itself as a leading investment destination through significant reforms. “With a dynamic and reformist government at the helm, the country is rapidly becoming a hub for international corporations looking to invest and expand,” he noted. From its strategic location in the Horn of Africa to its large and growing market, Ethiopia offers a thriving environment for businesses of all sizes, it was learned. The government is actively promoting investments, creating policies that foster economic growth and stability, and ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for foreign investors, according to Zeleke. The commissioner, particularly, highlighted key measures, including the opening up of previously closed sectors to foreign investors and streamlined processes for import-export and wholesale-retail licensing, as essential steps in fostering a more investment-friendly environment.   He also shared that the government's goal-oriented investment promotion strategy is currently in its second phase, with the target of attracting 3,000 leading companies. “We’ve already reached over 600, with several companies actively establishing operations, showing tangible results,” he said. For Zeleke, macroeconomic reforms, particularly addressing foreign exchange challenges, have played a pivotal role in enhancing the country’s attractiveness to foreign investors. The commissioner specifically pointed to the recent liberalization of the banking sector, which has significantly boosted foreign direct investment (FDI). As the top FDI hub in East Africa, Ethiopia is now working to extend its reach across the continent. Among the countries that have chosen Ethiopia as their investment destination are companies from China, Singapore, India, Russia, Italy, the Netherlands, Japan, Malta, Turkey, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia, it indicated.

Addis Ababa, February 22, 2025 (ENA) - Ethiopia and Qatar are taking significant strides to bolster their economic partnership, according to the Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC). Commissioner of the Ethiopian Investment Commission(EIC), Zeleke Temesgen met with Saad bin Mubarak Naimi, the Qatari Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the African Union (AU). During their discussion, Zeleke highlighted the longstanding collaboration and the Ethiopian government’s commitment to fostering a vibrant investment climate.   With initiatives aimed at creating a business-friendly environment, Ethiopia is opening doors for international investors. Key efforts include: liberalization of various sectors, ease of doing business initiatives, and attracting private sector engagement, according to the Ethiopian Investment Commission(EIC). Ambassador Naimi echoed this sentiment, affirming Qatar’s dedication to boosting investment flows into Ethiopia. The two sides agreed to host a tailored investment forum for Qatari investors, paving the way for more regular engagements, EIC further stated.

Addis Ababa, February 22, 2025 (ENA)— African coffee-producing nations have set an ambitious target to increase the continent’s share of global coffee production to 20 percent by 2030. This key resolution was among the top priorities at the third G25 African Coffee Summit being held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Ethiopia is by far one of the top coffee producers in Africa, its Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh has been in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania to attend the third G25 Africa coffee summit. The summit has brought together Heads of State, Ministers, coffee authorities and Institutions, and private sector stakeholders from G25 African coffee-producing countries to discuss and implement strategies for transforming the coffee sector. Currently, African accounts for only 11 percent of global coffee production—a sharp decline from 25 percent in the 1960s. While global coffee demand continues to rise, the continent’s output has struggled due to aging farmers, climate change, pests and limited value addition, it was learned. Accordingly, the G25 Africa coffee summit is emphasizing ways to boost production and local processing that would create jobs, strengthen intra-African trade, and drive economic growth. The African coffee-producing nations have targeted increasing their intra-African coffee trade from the current 15 percent to at least 50 percent. One of the major discussions at the summit also centered on addressing low productivity, which has hindered Africa's competitiveness in the global coffee market. Africa is home to Arabica and Robusta coffee with diverse and unique flavor, and has over 53% of its rural population involved in coffee farming. However, structural constraints and climate challenges hinder the sector's growth. The summit is anticipated to rejuvenate Africa's coffee industry by involving youth, enhancing value addition, and addressing systemic barriers.

Addis Ababa, February 21, 2025 (ENA)—The 3rd Ethiopian Tamirt Expo that Addis Ababa will host from 7-13 May 2025 is expected to generate over 5 billion birr in transaction, Industry Minister Melaku Alebel said. A launch event to the 3rd Ethiopian Tamirt Expo 2025 was held in Addis Ababa yesterday. Speaking at the event, Minister Melaku Alebel stated although Ethiopia possesses a long history of civilization, its manufacturing productivity has been slow. He explained that the Ethiopian Tamirt movement was launched in recognition of the critical importance of boosting the manufacturing industry's capacity to accelerate Ethiopia's journey to prosperity. Ethiopia Tamrit has achieved numerous successes over the past two years by addressing the challenges the sector had faced, he added. In particular, he mentioned the foreign currency savings from import substitution which would have been incurred on importing goods. Over the past six months of 2024/25 Ethiopian fiscal year, revenue worth of 2 billion birr was obtained from import substitute products domestically produced, he said.   He mentioned that over 307 industries at federal level participated at the Ethiopian Tamirt Expos held in the past two years, with generated revenues exceeding five billion birr. The Minister also pointed out that several domestic and international business agreements and market linkages are expected to be created. He affirmed that the government is resolutely working to address the challenges facing the sector, not only by making amendments in legal frameworks but also in collaboration with relevant stakeholders. Manufacturers and their representatives, for their part, stated that the movement is of great benefit to revitalize the sector through easily networking producers and consumers. They noted that Ethiopian products have maintained quality standards to become competitive at the international markets. The manufacturers also stated that the Ethiopian Tamrit Movement has stimulated consumers for preference of domestically produced goods. The 3rd Ethiopian Tamirt Expo 2025 is expected to attract over 200,000 visitors.

Addis Ababa, February 21, 2025 (ENAA)—Ethiopia has an unwavering position to foster fair and equitable utilization of Nile waters, thereby ensuring suitable development of the region, Ethiopia’s Minister of Water and Energy Habtamu Itefa said. Addressing the extraordinary Nile Council of Ministers' meeting held in Addis Ababa today, the Minister of Water and Energy stressed that cooperation among Nile riparian countries is not optional but of necessity for fair and equitable utilization of our water resources for the prosperity of our citizens. Stressing the importance of genuine commitment from basin countries, Habtamu said this extraordinary meeting is an opportunity for us to deliberate on the technical and institutional issues of the Nile Basin Initiative. As people of sharing one river and vision, achievements have been made over the years, the minister added. Awareness raising and creating common understanding and opportunities for member countries to bring ideas and concerns regarding fair and equitable rights on utilization of Nile river tributaries were among the significant strides made over the years, Habtamu elaborated.   He reiterates the continued and unwavering commitment of the Ethiopian government to cooperate on the Abay(Nile) River. Regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), the minister said the dam has been built by all Ethiopians from our assets and knowledge for the sole purpose of power generation. The GERD is a symbol of cooperation and exemplary for other countries, the Minister of Water and Energy pointed out. "We believe this dam will be exemplary for our brotherly countries to work with their own resources with what they have, ”Habtamu added. Florence Grace Adongo, Executive Director of Nile Basin Initiative for her part affirmed that great strides have been made in meeting the desired objectives of the 10 year NBI strategy. The extraordinary council of ministers meeting was held on the eve of the 19th Nile Day, to be conducted in Addis Ababa with the theme “Strengthening Nile Cooperation for Resilience and Shared Prosperity” tomorrow. .

Addis Ababa, February 21, 2025(POA)—SEthiopia and UK have reiterated their commitment to further strengthen the nations’ longstanding relations in various spheres. UK Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has rung the bell at the Ethiopian Securities Exchange yesterday, marking the exciting opportunities in Ethiopia’s financial sector. During the occasion, Finance Minister Ahmed Shide said public enterprises are delivering more as their revenue has been enhanced and became more profitable following the implementation of the economic reform. Public enterprises like Ethiopian Airlines, Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, Ethio Telecom, and Ethiopian Shipping Lines are now delivering more, and they have become more profitable, he added. The recently established Ethiopian Investment Holdings is an umbrella holding company owning these public enterprises as its fundamental objective is to make sure that the nation’s public enterprises are governed with the best global standard, the minister noted. Regarding Ethio-UK relations, Ahmed said it is an exceptional development partnership which is focusing on pro-poor based development. Acknowledging the support of the Government of United Kingdom to Ethiopia's economic reform agenda, he added that Ethiopia will continue deepening and sustaining its partnership with the UK. UK Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner commended Ethiopia's ongoing remarkable economic transformation. According to her, ESX is the perfect symbol of the transformation Ethiopia is undergoing. "To improve the living standards of the people, we (the UK) are investing in critical infrastructure including clean energy, transport and airports." The deputy premier reaffirmed UK's continued commitment for the realization of Ethiopia's ongoing economic reform agenda. On her part Ethiopian Capital Market Authority Director-General Hana Tehelku said Ethiopia’s capital market has made remarkable strides, and laid a strong foundation for sustainable growth through robust regulatory frameworks, strategic collaborations, capacity building and market infrastructure. "As we move forward, continued commitment to transparency, inclusivity and technological advancement will be crucial in unlocking the full potential of our financial ecosystem."

Addis Ababa, February 2, 2025 (ENA)---The 19th Abay Day will be held coming Saturday in Addis Ababa, featuring a series of events on the theme "Strengthening Abay Cooperation for Climate Resilience and Shared Prosperity." Briefing the media about the event, Ethiopia's Minister of Water and Energy Habtamu Ittefa emphasized the importance of collaboration to manage the Abbay River, indicating that cooperation is the best way forward. Habtamu stated that Ethiopia has been actively engaging in a multitude of initiatives aimed at safeguarding the Abay River, including the implementation of various environmental protection measures to combat soil erosion.   Underpinning the principle of "one river, one people, one goal" in Ethiopia, the minister emphasized the importance of protecting water resources. The Nile Basin Initiative has made significant progress, executing important projects and generating clean energy for neighboring countries, reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability. The provision of clean energy to neighboring countries and the consequent decrease in carbon emissions serve as a notable accomplishment in promoting sustainable development and environmental conservation, the minister said. Ethiopia has planted over 40 billion seedlings as part of their reforestation efforts, with a significant portion of these seedlings being planted along the tributaries of the Abay River, he recalled. The Minister stressed that in order to preserve the water, it is essential for all riparian countries to jointly prioritize the sustainable management and conservation of the river.   Chair, Technical Advisory Committee, Callist Tindimugaya on his part emphasized that the Nile riparian countries have been actively engaged in efforts to establish conducive conditions for the equitable sharing of the benefits derived from the Abay River, rather than focusing solely on the distribution of the water itself. The Abay River serves as a vital lifeline for over 500 million population residing in the basin countries, he said. He elaborated the ongoing efforts to mitigate the potential risks that climate change poses to the river including sustainable development practices, restoring ecosystems and raising awareness among communities about the importance of preserving the river's health.

Addis Ababa, February 20, 2025(ENA)—Ethiopia and Russia have agreed to further enhance investment in multiple areas. Ethiopian Investment Commissioner Zeleke Temesgen had discussion with a high-level Russian delegation led by Economic Development Minister Maxim Reshetnikov in Addis Ababa. The commissioner briefed the delegation on the reforms undertaken by the government to empower the private sector, create favorable investment environment and the overall endeavors made to expand investment. He also pointed out the commitment of the government of Ethiopia to enhance the longstanding and multifaceted relations between the countries in the economic sphere.   On his part, Economic Development Minister Reshetnikov expressed Russia’s desire to enhance ties in economic and private sector investment. Ethiopia and Russia have agreed to cooperate in areas, including mineral resource development, fertilizer production, renewable electricity generation and distribution, information and technology sectors as well as the modernization of special economic zones, among others. The two countries are also expected to jointly hold investment and business forums with the target to jointly identify investment and project areas, it was learned.

Addis Ababa, February 20, 2025 (ENA)—South Africa is anticipated to derive Africa's global market engagement and investment in its current presidency of G20, becoming the first African country to lead the group of powerful nations. To address the global policy crisis, the country has adopted the theme "Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability" for its G20 Presidency, it was learned. Speaking to ENA, Brand South Africa CEO Neville Matjie expressed excitement surrounding his country’s leadership role in the global platform. The CEO said this G20 presidency is also important to serve African interests as a continent.   “The G20 is not just a South African platform, but an African platform. We are looking at really driving the narrative that Africa is ready to do business and Africa is ready to receive a lot of investments.” Moreover, he emphasized that the country’s G20 agenda would address climate change not only in terms of its environmental impact but also as a catalyst for business opportunities. South Africa’s G20 Presidency also underscored youth and women’s empowerment, he added. “We are also prioritizing youth-owned businesses and women-owned businesses, ensuring that these agendas resonate strongly within South Africa’s active role in the G20. We have been working closely with the private sector to drive these initiatives forward.” On other hand, the CEO also spoke about the role of the private sector in supporting these efforts, particularly through the launch of the Business 20 (B20). “The private sector will launch the B20 in Johannesburg in two weeks. We will be part of this process, with the launch event taking place in Cape Town. However, the B20 summit itself will be held in Johannesburg later in the year, just before the G20 Summit.” He elaborated that South Africa has been collaborating with the AfCFTA Secretariat to boost intra-Africa trade, currently standing at just 16 percent, a figure that requires significant improvement. “South Africa itself does have a much greater percentage in terms of trading in Africa, but it can't just be one country alone. We need to see that resonating with all the African countries.” He also stressed the need for improving trade instruments and encouraging the substitution of goods imported from outside Africa. Matjie also urged African countries to expand trading efforts within the continent. The CEO underlined that this would be critical to realizing the benefits of the AfCFTA, ensuring that African businesses can grow within the continent.

Addis Ababa, February 20, 2025 (POA—Six local and foreign investors, who have signed service level agreements with the Industrial Parks Development Corporation (IPDC) and collectively invested over 160 million US dollars, have begun construction of sheds and machinery installation at the Bole Lemi Special Economic Zone (SEZ). These developments represent a significant step toward boosting industrial activity within the SEZ, said CEO of IPDC, Feseha Yetgesu. Witnessing the construction site, the CEO said most of the investors are in the final stages of construction and machinery installation, paving the way for production preparations.   The investors, who signed agreements with the corporation in the current fiscal year and at the end of the 2016 fiscal year, are now completing the necessary groundwork to begin operations. Once operational, these companies are expected to create over 2,000 permanent job opportunities for citizens, contributing to both economic growth and employment prospects in the area.   The Bole Lemi Special Economic Zone, one of the 11 industrial parks designated as SEZs by the Ethiopian Investment Board, continues to attract significant investment. This highlights its potential to become a key hub for rapid industrial development in Ethiopia.

Addis Ababa, February 19, 2025 (ENA) -- Ethiopia's ongoing economic transformation is remarkable, UK Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said. In her remark made at the Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX) this afternoon, the deputy PM commended the commencement of ESX, opening up of the nation's market and the overall economic reform. She reaffirmed UK's continued commitment for the realization of Ethiopia's ongoing economic reform agenda. During the occasion, Minister of Finance Ahmed Shide for his part lauded the exceptional partnership of Ethiopia and UK as the partnership is instrumental to help Ethiopia's growth trajectory. Acknowledging the support from the government of United Kingdom to the private sector and Ethiopia's economic reform agenda, the minister said Ethiopia will continue deepening and sustaining its partnership with the UK. During her official visit in Ethiopia, the UK Deputy PM Angela Rayner met with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Deputy PM Temesgen Tiruneh and other high-level government officials and heads of institutions.

Addis Ababa, February 19, 2025 (ENA) – The African Union (AU) Commission for Economic Development has commended Ethiopia’s economic development efforts as a potential model for other African nations to follow. AU Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry, and Minerals, Albert M. Muchanga announced the creation of a comprehensive continental document aimed at promoting sustainable development and economic prosperity across Africa. The initiative, according to Commissioner Muchanga, is designed to foster a unified approach to shaping Africa’s economic future. During the inauguration of the UN-SDSN Africa office at Addis Ababa University, the commissioner addressed Africa’s socioeconomic challenges and the opportunities available for growth. Muchanga praised Ethiopia’s substantial macroeconomic reforms, noting that they reflect the ongoing collective efforts across the continent. He also commended Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative, recognizing its success and its potential to serve as a model for other African countries. The Green Legacy Initiative focuses on sustainable practices and conservation, particularly reducing carbon emissions and promoting electric vehicles. Muchanga also emphasized that these efforts present an effective approach for tackling climate change and fostering environmental stewardship in other African nations. Looking ahead, the commissioner projected significant growth in GDP per capita 5, 8, and 6 percent between 2023-2033, 2034-2053, and 2054-2063, respectively, which could substantially reduce poverty across the continent. In addition, Commissioner Muchanga stressed the critical importance of economic integration in driving development. He pointed to streamlined trade, the removal of cross-border barriers, and unified investment frameworks as essential components of this process. While all 54 African nations, including Ethiopia, have embraced the African free trade zone, the commissioner acknowledged that inadequate transport infrastructure remains a major challenge in facilitating trade. He further emphasized the need for regional economic communities to serve as the foundation for continental integration, gradually aligning policies, regulations, and infrastructure across the region. The commissioner urged private sector operators to prepare for increased trade and called on academic and governmental institutions to support the integration process to fully capitalize on the opportunities it offers.

Addis Ababa, February 19, 2025 (ENA) -- UK Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has paid a visit to Ethiopian Airlines. The Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, and her delegation visited Ethiopian Airlines.   During their visit, they visited the Ethiopian Aviation University, Ethiopian Maintenance and Repair Overhaul facilities, and our state-of-the-art flight simulators, followed by productive discussions with our Group CEO Mesfin Tasew and Ethiopian executive management team.   Ethiopian Airlines serves the U.K. with 16 weekly flights to London Heathrow, London Gatwick, and Manchester, connecting people, cultures, and businesses with our fleet of ultramodern aircraft.

Addis Ababa, February 19, 2025 (ENA) — The new African Union Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment, Moses Vilakati emphasized the need for Africans to leverage new agricultural technologies alongside these resources to transform the sector. At the 38th African Union summit held in Addis Ababa last week, Moses Vilakati of Eswatini was elected as the Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment. As the AU Commissioner, Vilakati will spearhead policies and initiatives that align with the African Union's Agenda 2063, the blueprint for Africa's socio-economic transformation. In an exclusive interview with POA, Vilakati explained that Africa is endowed with natural resources, such as fertile land and abundant water, necessary for agricultural production. He emphasized the need for Africans to leverage new agricultural technologies alongside these resources to transform the sector. Vilakati pointed out that Africa currently exports raw agricultural products instead of finished goods, stressing the importance of value addition. He acknowledged Africa's vast potential for agricultural products but noted that the continent still imports food. In his role as Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment (ARBE) in the African Union Commission, he vowed to address this paradox. Vilakati stated that 60-70 percent of Africa's population relies on agriculture for survival. Investments in agriculture will improve living standards, create significant employment opportunities, and substantially boost the economies of African countries.

Addis Ababa, February 19, 2025 (ENA)—Zambia’s Foreign Minister Mulambo Haimbe and Nigeria's Industry, Trade and Investment Minister Jumoke Oduwole have emphasized the critical need to expedite the implementation of regional economic communities (RECs) and AfCFTA to unlock Africa’s full economic potential. In an exclusive interview with ENA, the Zambian minister Haimbe has emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between African nations through enhanced regional frameworks. The continent must prioritize collaboration within its borders rather than relying on external sources for economic development, he noted. “The integration of African economies should be at the forefront of our priorities. As a continent, we cannot continue to rely on cumbersome trade routes and barriers that hinder our growth.” The minister believes that “regions must create clear, actionable plans for political cooperation, as well as for trade and investment. If we cannot connect with each other easily, we cannot expect to trade efficiently or grow together as a united Africa.” Haimbe further stressed the importance of improved infrastructure and connectivity between African nations, highlighting that current travel patterns often force African diplomats and business leaders to take inefficient routes, exemplifying the need for better transport networks across the continent. Therefore, there is a need for greater investments in infrastructure as a critical step toward facilitating trade and fostering regional economic cooperation. However, the minister raised concerns about the ongoing conflicts and instability in parts of Africa, which continue to impede progress, underscoring that peace and security must be prioritized as instability in one region affects the entire continent’s development and economic success. “There can be no development, no trade, and no prosperity where there is conflict. We must work together to address these challenges for Africa to reach its full potential,” he underscored. On her part, Nigeria's Industry, Trade and Investment Minister Jumoke Oduwole underscored the importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in driving Africa’s economic growth.   Now five years into its implementation, the initiative has already started yielding tangible benefits, with increased cross-border trade and growing opportunities for African youth, women, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), she said. According to her, the AfCFTA presents a unique opportunity for Africans to break down the barriers that have limited the ability to trade with one another. Oduwole added that “Nigeria is committed to optimizing the AfCFTA; and we are seeing positive movement in the export of goods and services across Africa.” The minister also recognized Ethiopia’s continued commitment to the AfCFTA agenda, praising the country for its active participation in the initiative.   “We are excited to expand our trade relations with Ethiopia and hope to see more African nations embracing the opportunities offered by AfCFTA for greater economic integration,” she stated. As African nations continue to pursue stronger economic ties through RECs and the AfCFTA, the ministers agree that cooperation at the regional level is the key to unlocking sustainable development and shared prosperity.

Addis Ababa, February 19, 2025 (ENA) -- The President of African Development Bank (AfDB), Akinwumi A. Adesina reaffirmed the bank’s continued support to Ethiopia’s agriculture sector. The President has conferred with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in Addis Ababa. He said on a social media post that it was great meeting with you Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed affirming that the African Development Bank will continue to support Ethiopia’s agricultural sector, building on our strong support behind Ethiopia’s remarkable achievements in wheat production. PM Abiy said on social media post last week that he discussed with the African Development Bank President Akinwumi A. Adesina and International Fund for Agricultural Development President Alvaro Lario on their ongoing support for Ethiopia’s agricultural sector. “We also discussed enhancing cooperation to drive sustainable growth and resilience in the industry,” the premier added.