Addis Ababa, February 22, 2025 (ENA)—Efforts to enhance the credibility, independence, and fairness of the justice system will be further intensified, Justice Minister Hanna Arayasalassie said. Speaking at the inauguration of Kolfe Keranyo Judicial Bodies Building estimated to cost over 600 million Birr, she noted that a comprehensive set of reforms have been implemented within the justice system. The newly built facility features 7 floors, multiple courtrooms, office spaces, and amenities for individuals with disabilities. The minister said that the newly constructed building serves as a tangible symbol of the government's unwavering dedication to upholding the rule of law and facilitating equitable access to justice for all citizens.   The infrastructure not only underscores the significance of the legal system in promoting a just society but also signifies a concrete step towards enhancing judicial services and enhancing the overall efficiency of the justice system, Hanna added. By investing in such state-of-the-art facilities, the government aims to underscore its commitment to fostering transparency, accountability, and fairness in the legal framework, ultimately striving to uphold the principles of democracy and ensure the protection of citizen's rights through the promotion of a robust legal infrastructure, the minister stated. According to her, the government has allocated funding and resources to improve the efficiency and accessibility of the justice system. Hanna further state that the reforms in the judiciary are aimed to enhance the efficiency, transparency, and overall quality of the judicial process, ultimately ensuring that justice is served in a timely and fair manner. On his part, Federal Court of First Instance President, Fuad Kiyar, pointed out the pressing need to ensure that the public has access to the essential infrastructures built, given the vital role that justice bodies play as the third branch of government.   The president emphasized the importance of the right to a fair trial as a fundamental aspect of the judiciary. He elaborated that construction works for this purpose should be extended to ensure that the reforms implemented by the justice bodies have a direct impact on society. This would ultimately lead to the establishment of a more transparent and trustworthy justice system, the president concluded. Federal Supreme Court Vice President Abeba Embiale, highlighted the significant focus that courts and judicial bodies have received in recent years as part of ongoing reforms.   She also revealed that preparations have been completed to the construction and expansion of buildings for the Federal High Court and the Federal First Court in Addis Ababa and Dire Dawa cities. Moreover, the vice president said smart courts, along with other technologies aimed at enhancing the justice system, are under implementation to enhance service delivery, in addition to creating comfortable and appealing workplaces for justice system personnel and service seekers alike. Once these technologies become operational, they will effectively decrease inefficiencies in terms of time, financial resources, and human effort, she stressed.

Addis Ababa, February 22, 2025 (ENA)—Russia’s news agency, having launched an African media hub in Addis Ababa, has reaffirmed its commitment to play a pivotal role in the efforts to resonate the voice of Africa and Ethiopia internationally. Russia has been recently expanding its media presence in Africa by launching its first large-scale, multi-functional editorial hub in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia during last week. The newly launched Sputnik editorial centre has become the first Russian media outlet broadcasting in the Amharic language in Ethiopia. The media house also announced that there are plans to create content for radio, a website, social networks and applications in Amharic and English, as well as correspondent work, including with the African Union. Speaking to POA, Rossiya Segodnya International Media Group Director General, Dmitry Kiselev (which includes Sputnik) said the agency would be an alternative outlet to disseminate untold African stories. According to him, sputnik will be broadcasting African-oriented contents in 32 languages. “This is the way our news agency works and the voice of Ethiopia and the voice of Africa will resonate across the world,” he underscored. The Director General further disclosed the plan to launch Sputnik’s new services in Swahili and Hausa languages to better serve the African audiences. “Our office here in Ethiopia will serve as headquarters in Africa. In our presence with no one other African country before, this is where we build up our footprint in Africa from Ethiopia.” On her part, Algal Sagor head of sputnik in Africa said Addis Ababa will offer tremendous opportunities to sputnik’s works as it is home to various international organizations including the African Union (AU).   Sputnik is anticipated to launch a 24-hour radio transmission in Amharic and English in collaboration with the local mainstream media outlets in the near future.

Addis Ababa, February 20, 2025 (ENA)—The significance of mother tongues in the preservation of cultures and heritages was underscored in the face of endangered mother languages due to globalization. The United Nations community in Addis Ababa marked the International Mother Language Day 2025 under the theme "Languages Matter: Silver Jubille Celebration of International Mother Language Day'' today. On the occasion, Aboubakri Diaw, Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) Executive Secretary Chief of Staff said mother languages play critical role in education and societal cohesion, noting that they not only serve as tools for learning but also as vessels of culture and heritage.   He stressed the importance of linguistics diversity, multilingualism, and preservation of indigenous languages, recognizing the power of languages to bring individuals, peoples and nations together. The chief of staff urged attendees to advocate for policies that support the efforts being made worldwide to protect endangered languages and promote cultural heritages while encouraging multilingual education and the use of mother languages in daily life. Celebration of mother languages day presents opportunity for the whole world to review results achieved, renew the commitment made and emphasize the essential role of language preservation in safeguarding cultural heritages, improving teaching and creating societies that are more inclusive, more peaceful and more sustainable. Moreover, the day reminds us the importance of mother tongues for social integration and identity formation while also guaranteeing continued existence for future generations, he pointed out. African Union, ECA and UNESCO Education Program Specialist Abdoulaye Salifou on his part underscored the need for collaborative efforts among nations to promote linguistic rights and ensure that children can learn in their mother languages.   Multilingualism enriches communities and fosters understanding among diverse populations, which is particularly important in Africa's multicultural context, he stressed. The UN community's gathering in Addis Ababa reinforces the message that linguistic diversity enriches societies and should be celebrated and preserved. The event brought together officials, diplomats, educators, and students to reflect on the significance of mother languages in fostering cultural identity and enhancing interpersonal communication.

Addis Ababa, February 17, 2025 (ENA) – The Council of Ministers discussed on draft bills and passed decisions today. In its 42nd regular session it held today, the Council of Ministers discussed on various issues and passed decisions. First, the council discussed on the draft proclamation of Disaster Risk Management Commission. The proclamation will be instrumental in translating the reform system that the commission has launched in fostering Ethiopia's resilience to respond to disasters and develop culture of helping one another among Ethiopians to sustainably address humanitarian assistance through national capacity. The underlying principle of the proclamation is to provide humanitarian assistance to disaster hit citizens through national capacity, aligning it with sustainable development programs and prevalence of peace and address the economic, social and moral damage upon citizens. Having thoroughly discussed on the draft proclamation and enriched it with further inputs, the council unanimously approved and referred it to the House of People's Representatives.   Next, the Council discussed on draft regulations for the establishment of three defense institutions which are Ethiopian Defense University, Defense Specialized Referral Hospital Group and Defense Diagnostic Center and Defense Engineering Industrial Group. The regulation for the establishment of Ethiopian Defense University is intended to fulfill its objectives through the amendments of organizational structure and change of operations. The draft regulation on the establishments of the Defense Specialized Referral Hospital Group and Defense Diagnostic Center is to enable the centre fulfills the country’s medical needs, diagnostic and related services. The proclamation will also enable the centre to provide advanced medical services to which patients travel abroad in search of treatments. The council also discussed on the draft regulation for the establishment of Defense Engineering Industrial Group to determine its duties and responsibilities for the development of the country. The council had in depth discussions on the draft regulations, incorporated them with inputs unanimously approved the regulations to take effect starting from the date of publication on Negarit Gazette.

Addis Ababa, February 17, 2025 (ENA) -- United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network Africa office was inaugurated at the Addis Ababa University today. The main objective of the center, located in the premises of the university, is to develop a skilled workforce through diverse training programs and initiatives. It also seeks to participate in policy discussions and collaborative research to tackle critical issues related to the SDGs in Africa, it was learned. UN Sustainable Development Goals Solutions Network Head, Professor Jeffrey Sachs, said on the occasion Ethiopia's selection for this key continental role is its status as the African Union host city and its significant Pan-African history, along with its rich cultural and political heritage as a leader in sustainable development in Africa.   He also cited Addis Ababa University’s reputation for impactful research and collaboration with the African Union and international organizations. The head further noted the university's history of cultivating distinguished scholars and its commitment to promoting sustainable development initiatives across the continent. According to Professor Sachs, the youth in Ethiopia are eager and determined to foster transformative change within their country, laying the foundation for sustainable development and growth. On his part, Addis Ababa University Acting President Samuel Kifle emphasized the university's established track record in managing similar continental responsibilities in the past and voiced confidence in its capacity to effectively fulfill the demands of this new role.   The UN Sustainable Development Solutions (SDSN) unites innovative thinkers to collaboratively tackle challenges in sustainable development, leveraging diverse expertise for lasting social and environmental solutions. At the inauguration event government officials, including Finance Minister Ahmed Shide, Foreign Minister Gideon Timotiwos, and Planning and Development Minister Fitsum Assefa, along with other distinguished guests, were present.

Addis Ababa, February 17, 2025 (ENA) A crucial meeting of National Tuberculosis (TB) Program Coordinators from the Southern and Eastern Africa Region began today in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The three-day event marking the inaugural Annual Meeting of the Southern and Eastern Africa Regional Network for Tuberculosis (SEARN-TB) comes at a critical juncture in the global battle against tuberculosis (TB). Ethiopian State Minister of Health, Dereje Duguma, officially opened the meeting, underscoring the importance of the SEARN-TB network in strengthening regional collaboration and aligning TB control strategies. He emphasized the network’s crucial role in supporting operational research, which is essential for developing evidence-based approaches to TB prevention, control, and care. State Minister Dereje stressed the significance of sharing experiences and best practices among member countries, highlighting that this collective effort is key to eliminating TB across Africa and beyond. He expressed confidence that the network will amplify Africa’s voice in the global TB response. “This network represents a covenant, a commitment to harmonize strategies, share innovations, and ensure Africa’s voice is heard globally in the fight against TB,” said the State Minister. He acknowledged SEARN-TB’s progress since its launch in 2023, particularly the support from key partners. While recognizing achievements in TB control, he also pointed to ongoing challenges, including conflicts, migration, climate change, funding uncertainties, and the continued need for advancements in TB treatment research.   He urged member countries to renew their commitment to self-sufficiency by boosting domestic resource mobilization and ensuring the efficient use of available funds. He also emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships, engaging civil society organizations, and leveraging global health funding to maximize impact. State Minister Dereje called on participants to focus on three main areas during the discussions: sharing experiences and celebrating successes, fostering cross-border collaboration, and reviewing the network’s progress while planning its future direction. He highlighted Ethiopia’s success in transitioning out of the high-burden category for multi-drug resistant TB (MDR-TB) as an example of progress despite ongoing challenges. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of regional collaboration to effectively address the cross-border nature of TB transmission. The State Minister reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to the fight against TB and expressed confidence that the collaborative efforts within the SEARN-TB network will accelerate the implementation of effective TB policies and strategies. He also underscored the network’s significant contribution to the 2023 UN High-Level Meeting on TB and its role in driving innovation in TB diagnostics and treatment. The meeting is scheduled to conclude on February 19, 2025.

Addis Ababa, February 16, 2025 (ENA)—Spokesperson for the Executive Secretary of IGAD, Patience Nyange lauded Ethiopian News Agency for its efforts in promoting African perspective and catching up the digital transformation in the changing media landscape. On the margins of the 38thAU summit in Addis Ababa, the spokesperson has paid a visit to Ethiopian News Agency (ENA)—the sole news wire service with a cutting edge media facility that encompasses the state-of-the-art editing and recording equipment. Currently, ENA is establishing a digital transcontinental media platform called Pulse of Africa, aimed at serving as an African-focused media outlet. Following her visit, Nyange said the Pulse of Africa is a good example of digital advancement and it would contribute its fair share to tell the African story. “Africans are investing more in the digital transformation innovation that is happening around the world, and therefore we have not been left behind." According to her, the Pulse of Africa would play its own role in Africa's effort to tell the true stories of the continent, adding that as “we say African solutions will be driven from African solutions.” For her, Africa is a beautiful continent with beautiful stories that have to be promoted through its own and local perspectives. The Spokesperson also reaffirmed IGAD’s commitment to collaborate with the Ethiopian News Agency and other media houses in the IGAD region through various ways. “We collaborate with the rest of the media houses and ensure that the journalists within the region are trained quite often. So we have training opportunities for them. We also have a number of short courses that we do within the region as well as reward journalists through the IGAD Media Awards,” she indicated.  

Addis Ababa, February 16, 2025 (POA)—The Ngwenyama (king) of Eswatini, His Majesty Mswati III who is in Ethiopia for 38th AU Summit and president Taye Atseke Selassie toured restored national palace grounds today. The two sides also discussed various issues of bilateral cooperation and continental affairs. Speaking to ENA, just after a visit to Ethiopia's National Palace, His Majesty Mswati III of Eswatini said the palace comprises a lot of history to both Ethiopia and Africa. "The Historical Palace, which was built by the Emperor Haile Selassie and the history we've learned about this palace, how much it was involved, especially with the establishment of the Organization of the African Unity (OAU), which has transformed to the African Union," he said. King Mswati III was crowned in 1986 at the age of 18, succeeding his long-serving father King Sobhuza II, who died at the age of 82. The king, who is known as Ngweyama - "the lion" - often appears in public in traditional dress.

Addis Ababa, February 16, 2025 (ENA)---The Global Fund (GF) has praised Ethiopia for its significant strides in modernizing its pharmaceutical storage and distribution systems with the help of technology. Peter Sands, the Executive Director of the Global Fund, acknowledged the Ethiopian government's concerted efforts to upgrade the country’s pharmaceutical infrastructure. He shared these remarks during a visit to the Ethiopian Pharmaceutical Supply Service (EPSS), where he observed the processes of storage and distribution firsthand. Sands highlighted the strong and ongoing collaboration between Ethiopia and the Global Fund, particularly in the health sector, where they have worked together to provide essential medicines and vaccines for the fight against diseases such as TB, HIV, and malaria. He also noted that their partnership has recently expanded to include technology transfer, with the GF offering both financial and technical support.   Sands also commended Ethiopia for making impressive progress in effectively leveraging this support, pointing to the modernization of pharmaceutical storage and distribution as a significant achievement. He emphasized that these advancements have contributed greatly to improvements in the country’s overall health infrastructure. Frehiwot Abebe, State Minister of Health, on her part also recognized the vital role of the Global Fund’s financial and technical support in the creation of a digital system that is modernizing the country’s drug services. She further outlined the development of an efficient national drug supply and distribution network. In closing, Sands reiterated the GF’s ongoing commitment to strengthening Ethiopia's health system. "We will continue to deepen our cooperation with the Ethiopian Ministry of Health," he affirmed. "The GF and Ethiopia share a long history of partnership, and we are dedicated to strengthening this collaboration moving forward."

Addis Ababa, February 15, 2025 (ENA) – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed met with Global Fund Executive Director Peter Sands. “The Global Fund remains a key partner in supporting Ethiopia’s health sector, and our discussions today focused on strengthening this collaboration," the premier said on social media post.

Addis Ababa, February 14, 2025 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed with UN Secretary-General António Guterres as well as other dignitaries presides over the High-level Humanitarian Conference for the People of Sudan today in Addis Ababa. Ethiopia co-hosted the conference jointly together with the UAE, the African Union and IGAD. “Ethiopia is pleased to co-host the High Level Humanitarian Conference for the People of Sudan today together with the UAE, the African Union and IGAD,” Prime Minister Abiy wrote on social media pages. As a close neighbour and sister nation, Ethiopia stands in solidarity with the people of Sudan during these challenging times, he stated. “Our two countries are deeply interdependent, bound by generations of shared struggles, aspirations, and cultural ties,” the Premier noted.

Addis Ababa, February 14, 2025 (POA) --- The African Union (AU) and key partners, including African leaders, the African Development Bank (AfDB), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and Nutrition International, are urging immediate action to combat widespread malnutrition across Africa. This call to action came during a high-level side event at the 38th AU Summit in Addis Ababa. The event, titled "From Policy to Action: Towards a Common Position to Address Malnutrition in Africa," highlighted the devastating impact of malnutrition. It was stressed that the continent loses an estimated 153 billion USD annually due to reduced productivity and hindered economic growth caused by malnutrition. Participants emphasized the need to move beyond commitments and implement concrete measures to address this critical issue. This high-level gathering, co-organized by the AU Commission (AUC), the African Development Bank (AfDB) through the Africa Leaders for Nutrition Initiative, and the governments of Lesotho and Côte d’Ivoire, brought together leaders, stakeholders, and experts to foster collaboration and reaffirm Africa's dedication to improving nutrition. Minata Samate Cessouma, the outgoing AUC Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development, stressed the urgent need for improved nutrition at both national and continental levels to combat malnutrition and achieve the AU’s Agenda 2063 targets. "Millions of Africans suffer from malnutrition and its related consequences," Commissioner Cessouma stated. "Without adequate food and nutrition, progress in education, agriculture, and socio-economic development is impossible." She emphasized the need for a unified continental strategy and increased stakeholder engagement to mobilize necessary resources. Cessouma also commended successful nutrition initiatives in countries like Ethiopia and Côte d'Ivoire. The event further recognized and celebrated the advocacy work of AU Nutrition Champion, His Majesty King Letsie III of Lesotho. Lesotho's Prime Minister, Sam Matekane, urged greater cross-sector collaboration and the translation of financial and policy commitments into concrete solutions to combat malnutrition in Africa. The forum served as a platform to review lessons learned, evaluate AU Member States' financial and policy commitments, and solidify Africa's unified position in advance of the 2025 Nutrition for Growth Summit in Paris. Vice President of the African Development Bank, Nnenna Lily Nwabufo reaffirmed the bank's commitment to supporting African nations, including Ethiopia, and the AU in their fight against malnutrition. She pledged continued financial support to address the continent's nutrition challenges. FAO Director-General, Qu Dongyu, emphasized the urgent need to move from commitments to tangible action. Joel C. Spicer, President and CEO of Nutrition International, called for greater collaboration among all stakeholders to combat malnutrition and anemia. The event highlighted the critical role of nutrition in Africa's development agenda and the necessity of a unified, continent-wide effort to ensure a healthier and more prosperous future for all Africans. It also provided a vital platform to refine and amplify Africa’s collective voice leading up to the 2025 Nutrition for Growth Summit.

Addis Ababa, February 14, 2025 (ENA) - The United Arab Emirates (UAE) pledged 200 million dollars in humanitarian aid to Sudan, bringing its total contribution to 600 million dollars since April 2023. The announcement was made during a high-level Humanitarian Conference co-hosted by Ethiopia and UAE in Addis Ababa for People of Sudan today. UAE's Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Shakhboot Bin Nahyan Al Nahyan said that the conference was aimed to mobilize regional and global support to address Sudan’s catastrophic humanitarian crisis, and deliver a strong unified call for a humanitarian ceasefire during the month of Ramadan. “For nearly two years, we have witnessed one of the worlds gravest humanitarian catastrophes unfold in Sudan,” Sheikh Shakhboot stated, emphasizing the urgent need for collective action. He highlighted the upcoming holy month of Ramadan and urged all parties to respect its sanctity by accepting a humanitarian pause. "This would not only reflect the spirit of mercy and compassion that Ramadan embodies, but also provide a critical opportunity to ease the immense suffering of the Sudanese people, most of whom are women and children," the minister of state said. He noted that the conference aims that humanitarian organizations provide the necessary resources to deliver aid throughout Ramadan. He acknowledged the generous hospitality of Sudan's neighboring countries in hosting refugees and reiterated the UAE’s unwavering support for the Sudanese people. “Since April 2023, the UAE has provided over 400 million USD to support people in Sudan and neighboring countries,” Sheikh Shakhboot explained. "Today, we reaffirm our commitment by announcing an additional 200 million dollars in humanitarian funding,” he said. He further emphasized the UAE’s long-standing solidarity with Sudan, noting that the country has provided 3.5 billion USD in aid over the past decade. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, President of Kenya William Ruto, United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, and Executive Secretary of IGAD Workneh Gebeyehu attended the humanitarian conference, along with regional and international countries, and leading international organizations.

Addis Ababa, February 14, 2025 (ENA) --- The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres announced that six billion USD is needed to respond to the humanitarian crisis in Sudan. He made the announcement during the High-Level Humanitarian Conference for the People of Sudan held in Addis Ababa today. The conference, co-hosted by Ethiopia, the United Arab Emirates, the African Union, and IGAD, aimed to mobilize regional and global support to address Sudan’s catastrophic humanitarian crisis and deliver a strong unified call for a humanitarian ceasefire during the month of Ramadan. High-level officials, including Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, President William Ruto, UN Secretary-General António Guterres, African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu, and other representatives of international organizations took part in the conference.   During his address, Secretary-General Guterres noted that the humanitarian crisis in Sudan is escalating. Therefore, the United Nations, in collaboration with its partners, will launch the 2025 Sudan Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan and the 2025 Sudan Refugee Response Plan next week. The plans aim to provide humanitarian assistance and support to Sudanese people, both within Sudan and those who have fled to neighboring countries, he added. Guterres revealed that these plans require 6 billion USD to support the nearly 21 million people inside Sudan and up to 5 million refugees in neighboring countries. Speaking about the challenges of humanitarian access, particularly in areas where fighting is most intense, he urged the protection of civilians, including humanitarian workers, and stressed the need for rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access to all areas of need. ‘‘Humanitarian access remains a fundamental challenge, particularly where the fighting is most active. Civilians, including humanitarian workers, must be protected, rapid, safe and unhindered, and sustained humanitarian access must be facilitated in all areas of need", the secretary-general underscored. On his part, African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat said a lasting solution to the political crisis in Sudan can only be achieved through inclusive dialogue. ‘‘The African Union has worked hard for an African solution to this conflict. Just a few days ago, the AU panel on Sudan brought some Sudanese stakeholders together for its continued talks with Sudanese stakeholders. The Presidential AD Hoc Committee on Sudan, led by Uganda, was also established by the AU Peace and Security Council to engage the belligerents to this war.’’ IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu stated that the response to the humanitarian crisis in Sudan has been inadequate. He emphasized the need for a sustained and coordinated response, given the scale of the crisis. "Though the generosity of the international community is significant but not sufficient and Sudanese are still suffering. The scale of this crisis demands more and more efforts. It is imperative that we not only fulfill our existing commitments, but also mobilize additional resources to address the escalating needs for our brothers and sisters in Sudan."

Addis Ababa, February 14, 2025 (ENA) --- African Union's Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Professor Mohammed Belhocine emphasized the strides made in improving Africa's education sector, while urging a renewed focus on deepening partnerships to drive sustainable education reforms across the continent. Briefing the media today, Professor Belhocine reflected on the milestones achieved during the African Union year of education, 2024 and look ahead to the next phase. The Professor noted the last four years have marked by a strong commitment to advancing education, science, technology and innovation across the continent highlighting the importance of elevating education as a key continental priority for Africa. Through sustained advocacy and engagement with member states and stakeholders, he noted that education was successfully positioned as the African Union's theme for the year 2024, among the many other pressing priorities. Throughout the year, we counted over 62 activities that had been implemented; he said indicating that this reflects a holistic approach to educational transformation. Moreover, Professor Belhocine urged for renewed focus on deepening partnerships to drive sustainable education reforms across the continent. Professor Belhocine pointed out that no single African country currently possesses enough resources to ensure that all children receive quality education at the primary and secondary levels. "There is a structural deficit in financing, and this must be taken by all of us, and we must advocate locally with our governments to make the best use possible with the little resources that we have." He stressed the need to enhance resource mobilization at global level taking Africa Union’s membership in the G20 in to consideration. Belhocine underscored that at the heart of these efforts is the belief that education is fundamental to unlocking Africa's full potential. "Without educated people, there can be no true independence, peace, or industrial development. Education is key to bridging the digital divide and driving our economic growth," he affirmed. The Commissioner called on all stakeholders to leave the conversation with the firm belief that education is not a privilege but a fundamental right central to the development of nations.

Addis Ababa, January 13, 2025 (POA)—African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) convened its First Extraordinary Session of Focal Points Steering Committee today, a crucial gathering ahead of a highly anticipated 38th African Union Summit. Marie-Antoinette Rose-Quatre, Chief Executive of the African Union’s African Peer Review Mechanism continental secretariat and esteemed host, Fitsum Assefa, Minister of Planning and Development of Ethiopia presided over the session, it was learned. This session is vital in addressing pressing matters that demand collective attention. It also underscores the commitment to ensuring that the APRM, at both the Panel Members and Eminent Persons level, continues to deliver with impact and tangible results in advancing good governance across the continent. The session was held at Sheraton Addis Hotel, chaired by Secretary of State to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, in charge of African Affairs, Ambassador SECAAF Mansouri and Chairperson of the APRM Committee of Focal Points. The session is focused on finalizing two critical matters including the criteria for the selection and appointment of the APR Panel of Eminent Persons and the legal opinion on the extension of tenure for APR Panel members.

Addis Ababa, February 12, 2025 (POA) --- African countries have been urged to ensure gender equality in education amid widespread calls for increased investment in girls' education across the continent. The call was made by experts and policymakers attending a high-level dialogue on gender equality in education, held at the African Union (AU) headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia's capital, under the theme "Investing in Girls' Education Systems as a Form of Reparation, Justice, and Sustainable Development for African Communities." The high-level dialogue, held on the sidelines of this year's 38th AU summit, assessed the status of girls' education in Africa. The gathering underscored the necessity of investing in girls' education as a form of justice and a tool for development, in line with the AU's 2025 theme of the year: "Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations." Addressing the meeting, AU commissioner for education, science, technology, and innovation, Mohamed Belhocine, said there is a pressing need to discuss policy reforms aimed at promoting girls' education across Africa. He said that enhancing financial investment in educational systems, developing safe school environments and infrastructure, and ensuring the availability of gender-responsive data and evidence are crucial for improving access to quality education for African girls. "This year, in line with the AU theme of the year, greater emphasis is placed on education as the cornerstone of an equitable healing and repairing process for long-standing inequalities. It requires us to better understand our past and future socio-cultural and economic environment," Belhocine said. A joint report by the AU and the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization on the status of girls' and women's education in Africa was launched during the meeting, offering a comprehensive analysis of progress toward achieving inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all. According to the AU, the gathering serves as a crucial platform for policymakers, experts, and activists to exchange ideas, share successful practices, and develop actionable strategies to address these challenges. This year's AU summit is set to take place from Wednesday to Sunday at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa. As part of the annual gathering, the AU Executive Council, comprising foreign ministers from AU member states kicked off today. The two days meeting will be followed by the assembly of African heads of state and government on Saturday and Sunday.

Addis Ababa, February 11, 2025 (POA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has encouraged all participants of the 38th African Union Summit to extend their stay and experience the rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes of Ethiopia. In his welcoming message posted on social media, the Prime Minister said that those features make Ethiopia truly the Land of Origins. As Ethiopia welcomes you to the 38th African Union Summit, I encourage all participants to extend their stay and experience the rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes that make Ethiopia truly the Land of Origins,” he underscored. From ancient heritage sites to vibrant traditions and unparalleled natural beauty, there is so much to discover beyond the summit, Prime Minister Abiy elaborated.

Addis Ababa, February 10, 2025 (ENA) – A coalition of African civil society organizations and human rights defenders has strongly urged African Union (AU) member states to swiftly adopt and ratify the AU Convention on ending violence against Women and Girls. The coalition, which includes women’s rights advocates and human rights defenders from various AU member countries, called on the heads of state and government to ratify the African Union declaration on the elimination of violence against women and girls. In a meeting held just before the 38th Summit of Heads of State in Addis Ababa, leaders of the civil society organizations emphasized the need for the African Union to demonstrate its commitment to ending violence against women and girls. They called for the AU to consider the perspectives of affected individuals, advocate for victim compensation, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice. Thelma Awori, Founding Director of the Institute for Social Transformation, underscored the importance of reparations for historical injustices, such as slavery and discrimination, noting the disproportionate impact of these issues on women and girls. She stressed that sexual exploitation, harassment, and violence must be prioritized on the African Union's agenda. The coalition affirmed that the convention aimed at eliminating violence against women and girls seeks to establish a comprehensive legislative framework. This framework would address protection, prevention, and access to justice, while also recognizing the importance of positive masculinity and community involvement in combating violence.   The organizations also emphasized the need for the decolonization of the African education system to empower individuals and ensure compensation for unpaid care work. They expressed support for the African Union’s call for justice and reparations for African peoples and those of African descent. Youth involvement was highlighted as essential to the process, with the organizations stating that waiting for the adoption of legal frameworks and policies addressing violence against women and girls is no longer an option. Although the African Union has mechanisms in place for conflict prevention and early response, the coalition stressed that adequate funding is critical to address these issues. They argued that silencing the gun in Africa requires investment in prevention, early conflict warning, and addressing climate, economic, and political crises. Additionally, they emphasized the importance of arms control, noting that the “Silencing the Guns” campaign aims to reduce gun violence. In conclusion, the organizations stressed that empowering women and girls through education is crucial in ending gender-based violence. They urged the AU to adopt the convention, implement monitoring and reporting mechanisms, and commit to swift ratification and action.

Addis Ababa, February 10, 2025 (ENA)—The official welcoming ceremony in honour of the participants of the 46th Executive Council and the 38th Assembly of the Heads of State and Government of the African Union commenced today with a marching band and other roadshows. The ceremony was officiated by the Chair of the National Coordination Committee for the AU and State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Birtukan Ayano.   Later today various foreign ministers of AU member states and other distinguished guests will be arriving in Addis Ababa to take part in the Executive Council meeting.