Sport
Foreign Participants of Great Ethiopian Run Praise Addis Ababa's Dev't, Uniqueness of Event 
Nov 17, 2024 3002
Addis Ababa November 17/2024 (ENA) Global participants of the 24th Great Ethiopian Run International were captivated by Addis Ababa's transformative infrastructure and the iconic race experience. The 24th edition of Great Ethiopian Run International 10 Kilo meters road race held today in Addis Ababa with the participation of more than 50,000 people. This year's event held under the theme "For Every Child, Nutrition," has also attracted renowned athletes and other visitors from across the world. Conor Twomey from the USA, a participant in the 24th Great Ethiopian Run, has been exploring Ethiopia this week, visiting not only Addis Ababa but also various regions of the country. "It's my first time in Eastern Africa," Twomey expressed his excitement, "and I couldn't be prouder to see these Ethiopian people come out in force for such a grand event." “What a beautiful country, what a beautiful city! I’ve had the most amazing day participating in such a grand street running event,” he admired. For anyone who loves running, there’s a secret ground called Entoto Natural Park, located at 7,700 feet of altitude, just a few minutes away from the city, Twomey underscored. “We had the chance to run amongst the eucalyptus trees yesterday. What an absolute pleasure. This is a special place, a special city, and a special people,” he said encouraging everyone to consider joining the Great Ethiopian Run next year. Conor Twomey added that the infrastructure development in the capital is incredible. Twomey further witnessed, "I've traveled in other parts of Africa. And here, it is really impressive to see how every single street is being renovated. In Addis Ababa, there's great investment, a great sense of hope, and beautiful people and a beautiful country." Liam O'Brien from Ireland, another participant, said he was taking part in the annual Great Ethiopian Run International for the first time.   He expressed his excitement for participating in the annual 24th Great Ethiopian Run, a great experience. "Unlike today, I've never taken part in such a large and fun race. The atmosphere was incredible. The people are great. I really enjoyed it today," O'Brien expressed his excitement, commending Ethiopia for organizing such a beautiful grand sports carnival. "This makes Ethiopia proud," he added. Even though he has experience running in the New York Marathon, Berlin Marathon, and Chicago Marathon, he has never run in as big a crowd as Great Ethiopian Run. For him, it was a really unique experience to see all sorts of people, including children and young people, in such a great atmosphere. Stephen Farshing, another foreign participant, said this is his third time participating in the run and that it's beautiful.   He further added, "It's so nice to see all the people out here, the weather is very nice, and everyone's just having a good time, and so we had a good time." For him, it's a good time to bring everyone together, to see everyone in the city become one, run together, and encourage each other. It's just a very good spirit of brotherhood. Ethiopia's famous long-distance runner, Haile Gebrselassie founded the race in 2000. To commemorate the 50th anniversary of Lucy's discovery, 50,000 people participated in this year's Great Ethiopian Run international 10Km, which is organized in partnership with Ethiopia's Ministry of Tourism. Lucy is one of the oldest archeological remains of human species of 3.2 million years old. Its remains was discovered in Ethiopia 50 years ago. Every year, the Great Ethiopian Run takes place on the streets of Addis Ababa, which is currently evolving in appearance as a result of the rapid expansion of corridor development.  
24th Great Ethiopian Run International Colorfully Held in Addis Ababa
Nov 17, 2024 2050
Addis Ababa November 17/2024 (ENA)The 24th edition of Great Ethiopian Run International 10 Kilo meters road race held today in Addis Ababa with the participation of more than 50,000 people. This year's event, held under the theme "For Every Child, Nutrition," has attracted renowned athletes from across the world. President Taye Atske Selassie, Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie, Tourism Minister Selamawit Kasa, Health Minister Mekades Daba, and other guests were present at the opening of the race. The event ranks as one of the world’s best 10km road that has been inspiring a number of Ethiopian athletes to become successful in their sports endeavors. The founder of this prestigious international event, athlete Haile Gebrselassie, said that the this race is the starting point for the success of famous athletes. As it attracts several domestic and foreign athletes as well as the diplomatic community, the Great Ethiopian Run has also been playing key role in building Ethiopia’s image and promote the country’s tourism besides its contribution to the advancement of athletics, he added. To commemorate the 50th anniversary of Lucy's discovery, 50,000 people participated in this year's Great Ethiopian Run international 10Km, which is organized in partnership with Ethiopia's Ministry of Tourism. Lucy is one of the oldest archeological remains of human species of 3.2 million years old. Its remains was discovered in Ethiopia 50 years ago. Every year, the Great Ethiopian Run takes place on the streets of Addis Ababa, which is currently evolving in appearance as a result of the rapid expansion of corridor development. Ethiopia's famous long-distance runner, Haile Gebrselassie founded the race in 2000.  
24th Great Ethiopian Run International to Take Place on Sunday
Nov 15, 2024 705
Addis Ababa November 15/2024 (ENA)-Ethiopia's Ministry of Tourism announced that the Sofi Malt Great Ethiopian Run International will enhance Ethiopia’s image and promote its tourism attractions. This year the Great Ethiopian Run international 10Km will be held for the 24th times under the theme "For Every Child, Nutrition,” on the coming Sunday in Addis Ababa. In press conference today, Minister of Tourism Selamawit Kassa shared that the Great Run will significantly contribute to tourism and development efforts in Addis Ababa. She highlighted that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the discovery of Lucy, and 50,000 participants are expected to join the race. This event will help elevate Ethiopia’s tourism development on the global stage.   Haile Gebrselassie, founder of the Great Run, stated that the Sofi Malt Great Ethiopian Run International is one of the world’s most recognized races. He urged local residents to show hospitality to international runners and to run with caution. The Sofi Malt Great Ethiopian Run International 10km offers a unique experience for runners of all levels. While attracting elite athletes, its primary goal is to encourage mass participation from local residents. The event also ranks as one of the world’s best 10km road races for international participants. This year the Great Ethiopian Run international 10Km will be held for the 24th times bringing together runners from across the world, uniting hearts and celebrating unity in diversity.
CAF Executive Committee Member Expresses Confidence in Ethiopia's Capacity to Host 2029 AFCON
Oct 23, 2024 8338
Addis Ababa October 23/2024 (ENA) A member of CAF Executive Committee and Former President of the Botswana Football Federation Maclean Letshwiti expressed confidence in Ethiopia's capacity to host the 2029 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The Confederation of African Football (CAF) 46th Ordinary General Assembly was held in Addis Ababa yesterday.   During the occasion, President Taye Atske Selassie requested CAF to endorse Ethiopia's bid for the prestigious tournament. Speaking to ENA, Letshwiti praised the warm hospitality accorded to him and CAF delegation by the Ethiopian government and people. He also stated that the positivity of the Ethiopian people regarding the development of African football goes beyond mere commitment. Noting that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stated the construction of 11 stadiums in preparation for the 2029 AFCON bid, he added, “I am so impressed, and I have no doubt that Ethiopia has the capability to stage another world-class AFCON.” “Not only in football, even politically Ethiopia is a true African state committed to the development of Africans worldwide. We will apply the standards as CAF, but I have no doubt that Ethiopia will become top in their bid.” Echoing this sentiment, Augustino Maduot Parek, President of the South Sudan Football Association, described Addis Ababa as “the Home of Africa.”   He acknowledged the significance of Ethiopia's role in the African Union and expressed enthusiasm for the country's infrastructure improvements, which will benefit both local communities and regional unity through football. Moreover, as vice President of the Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA), I am proud that Ethiopia is a member, he said. He recalled that Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda will host the 2027 Edition of AFCON. “We will be happy if we get also another opportunity for Ethiopia to host the 2029 AFCON; for me as a person, it's something very grateful for our region, as well as for the CAF.” However, there are many procedures and factors to consider regarding the level of AFCON organization, he said, adding, “For those of us in the region, we feel Ethiopia is like our home. Anything that helps develop infrastructure or brings joy to the people of Ethiopia is our joy.”    
Ethiopia Strongly Desires to Host Africa Cup of Nations: PM Abiy
Oct 22, 2024 8807
Addis Ababa October 22/2024 (ENA)-Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has announced that Ethiopia, which is the founder of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), is strongly desirous to host the 2029 African Cup of Nations. Speaking during a dinner reception held at the National Palace in honor of the leaders and participants of the CAF General Assembly, he emphasized the country's commitment to hosting the prestigious tournament.   The Prime Minister warmly welcomed the delegates to Ethiopia, a nation known as the Land of Origin for humanity. He highlighted Ethiopia's remarkable role in the struggle for African independence, its contributions to the Pan-African movement, and its consistent participation in global platforms such as the League of Nations and the United Nations. Ethiopia, he said, has always been a pillar of African unity and cooperation. Prime Minister Abiy also noted that Ethiopia is one of the founding nations of African football and remains committed to the development of the sport. He reaffirmed the country’s dedication to fostering growth in this sector and ensuring that the sport continues to thrive on a solid foundation. Ethiopia, which has previously hosted major international tournaments, has expressed a strong desire to host the 2029 Africa Cup of Nations. Prime Minister Abiy formally requested the opportunity, stating, "Ethiopia proudly stands as a symbol of African unity, which is why I am asking for the 37th Africa Cup of Nations to be held in Ethiopia in 2029." He further stressed that Ethiopia is the ideal host for the tournament, with a strong tradition of hospitality and excellent infrastructure to accommodate visitors.   The country is experiencing significant economic growth, recording 8.1 percent GDP growth in the previous fiscal year, and is projected to achieve 8.4 percent growth in the coming year. Prime Minister Abiy also underscored Ethiopia's ongoing efforts to modernize its cities and construct state-of-the-art infrastructure, including new stadiums and the renovation of existing facilities. This, he said, is part of a broader plan to ensure that the country is fully prepared to host the Africa Cup of Nations in 2029. In addition to the football matches, visitors will have the opportunity to explore Ethiopia’s rich history, deep cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscapes. The Prime Minister remarked that beyond the sport itself, football has the power to unite people from across the world, and Ethiopia is ready to showcase its unique position in football and athletics.      
CAF President Expresses Excitement over Ethiopia's Proposal to Host AFCON 2029
Oct 22, 2024 8740
Addis Ababa October 22/2024 (ENA)-The Confederation of African Football (CAF) president, Patrice Tlhopane Motsepe, expressed excitement about Ethiopia's plan to submit a proposal to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2029 (AFCON 2029). Briefing media today, the president expressed appreciation for the government and people of Ethiopia for their warm and compassionate hospitality with the sense of most loving. "Ethiopia is the home for all of us. Every time I get off the airplane, when I'm Ethiopia and people say, Welcome to Ethiopia, I said, don't say welcome to Ethiopia. Say welcome home and the reception is always incredibly warm.” He noted that this country has a proud football history and expressed great honor in hosting the 46th CAF Ordinary General Assembly in one of the most beautiful countries and cities—not just in Africa, but in the world. "We are very excited about the intention of Ethiopia to submit proposal to host the AFCON 2029," he added. Noting that the future of Ethiopian football looks bright, he expressed best wishes for Ethiopia's bid to host AFCON 2029. He encouraged the government of Ethiopia and the Football Federation to work closely together to make timely decisions regarding Ethiopia's proposal submission. On other hand, the President said, the success of football is what happens in Ethiopia, what happens in every country in Africa. We were making success in some countries. In others, we are not making the success that we'd like too. I believe Ethiopia is fortunate to have a Prime Minister, like Abiy Ahmed, who loves football and is a committed and action-oriented leader. Moreover, the president pointed out that CAF aims to make African football amongst the best in the world. Earlier today, at the opening of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) 46th Ordinary General Assembly in Ethiopia, President Taye Atske Silassie requested CAF to endorse Ethiopia's bid to host the 2029 Africa Cup of Nations.
FIFA President Urges African countries to Invest in Yang Talents
Oct 22, 2024 8553
Addis Ababa October 22/2024 (ENA) President of FIFA Giovanni Vincenzo Infantino has encouraged African countries to further invest and unleash the potential of the continent’s young football players. In his opening remarks at the 46th Ordinary General Assembly of CAF being held in Addis Ababa, FIFA President indicated that African football has evolved and become stronger. Infantine stressed the need for investing in youth and creating opportunities, not just in one or two parts of the world, but all over the world. To this effect, the president urged African nations to reinforce investments in youth talents. “I encourage all of you to continue investing in youth football. Because those kids, those girls and boys who will play these youth competitions, these Youth World Cups under 17, will be the stars of tomorrow. And they will make sure that sooner rather than later, an African country can win the World Cup as well,” he hoped. Mentioning Morocco is set to host the FIFA World Cup in 2030 that would make the country as the second ever African nation to host the World Cup, Infantine noted that we are all looking forward to Morocco. South Africa was the first African country which hosted the FIFA World Cup in 2010, it was indicated. Speaking on FIFA’s investment that has been focusing on five football areas, the president pointed out the first one is football development that has been increasing from 250,000 USD to 2 million USD annually. “This money is invested by all of you in football development, and you can see that because you know it when you play now the qualifiers of the AFCON or of the World Cup, there is no easy game anymore. Everyone is getting stronger.” Healso mentioned another investment in the talent development scheme as part of football development. “We've invested in refereeing development as part of these investments. And we can see the results at African level, but also of the African teams at global level,” he elaborated. The other area is national team football, the president said and for the first time there will be nine or 10 African countries participating in the 2026 World Cup 2026 for the first time. We doubled the number of African countries participating in the World Cup and this is boosting, obviously, football investment and football development all over Africa, he said.              
President Taye Requests CAF to Endorse Ethiopia’s Bid 2029 Africa Cup of Nations Hosting Right
Oct 22, 2024 1495
Addis Ababa, October 22/2024 (ENA) President Taye Atske Selassie requested CAF to endorse Ethiopia's submission of a bid to host the prestigious tournament 2029 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The Confederation of African Football (CAF) 46th Ordinary General Assembly kicked off today in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.   In his keynote address to the assembly, Taye said Ethiopia is the second most populous nation in Africa with 70 percent of its population under the age of 30 years. Sport makes a significant part of Ethiopia’s national plan for harnessing its demographic dividend, the President underscored. According to Taye, his country is enormously investing in the sport infrastructure for multidimensional benefits. “We are investing heavily in sports education and in construction of infrastructure, including new stadiums and renovation of the existing ones,” he pointed out. Recall that Ethiopia has submitted its application to host the Africa Cup of Nations and the country is carrying out preparatory activities. When given the opportunity to host the prestigious Africa Cup of Nations, the President revealed that we look forward to creating exceptional experiences for teams, fans and the rest of the sports family and all other stakeholders. Accordingly, he stated that: “I take this opportunity to request CAF to endorse Ethiopia's bill to host this prestigious tournament.” Noting that Ethiopia is a country with millions of passionate fans to sport, Taye noted that the country has played the foundational role in the development of African football. Moreover, he expressed Ethiopia’s eagerness to showcase its capabilities and contribute to the continued growth of the sport. The President recalled that Ethiopia hosted AFCON almost half a century ago, adding that I believe many of you are not born. President of Ethiopian Football Federation, Esayas Jira said on his part Ethiopia is a proud football nation with a rich history that includes hosting the African Cup of Nations three times and lifting the trophy 1962. “As we celebrate 62 years since that glorious and the trophy, I stand before you today to express our unwavering ambition to host African 2029 on our historic land.” Esayas also reaffirmed the full commitment of the Ethiopian government to host the tournament, with about 11 stadiums under construction across the country. “This is a clear indication of Ethiopia's dedication to bring the peanut of African football back to its roots as a founding member of CAF, our people deserve to once again, witness and experience the electric atmosphere of AFCON,” he stated.      
CAF President Patrice Motsepe Arrives in Addis Ababa
Oct 20, 2024 2078
Addis Ababa October 20/2024 (ENA)- President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrice Tlhopane Motsepe, has arrived in Addis Ababa to participate in the 46th Ordinary Assembly of CAF. Upon his arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, Motsepe was welcomed by Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, Minister of Culture and Sports, Shewit Shanka, along with other senior government officials.   As Ethiopia gets ready to host the 46th CAF Ordinary General Assembly in Addis Ababa on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, it is welcoming delegates from all over Africa and beyond. This year’s assembly marks Ethiopia’s second opportunity to host the CAF Congress, having previously done so in 2017. With the event set to bring together officials from CAF Member Associations, zonal unions, and global football figures, Ethiopia’s preparations reflect its readiness to be at the centre of African football discussions. Ethiopia's preparations demonstrate its willingness to be at the forefront of discussion about African football, as the event is expected to bring together representatives from CAF Member Associations, zonal unions, and prominent international football leaders. Ethiopia, known for its rich cultural heritage and love for sports, has always been a key player in the development of football on the continent. The nation has a proud history of hosting significant sporting events and visitors to the capital, Addis Ababa, can expect to experience warm hospitality, historical landmarks, and a city that is a melting pot of African unity.
Construction of Circus Show, Training Center Well Underway in Addis Ababa 
Oct 13, 2024 4998
Addis Ababa October 13/2024 (ENA)-The construction of the state-of-the-art circus show and training center underway in Addis Ababa at Entoto Park is being accelerated, Minister of Culture and Sport Shewit Shanka said. The Minister and other officials of the Ministry visited the circus center which is being built by Sosina Wogayehu, a well-known performer with Circus Ethiopia. The center has been under construction for the past two years on an area of ​​16,400 square meters in Entoto Park, and it is expected to be completed and operational within the next one year. During the occasion, the minister noted that the center will serve as a circus show and training center at the continental level which will have an immense contribution for the growth of art and tourism sector as well. Reiterating that the support of the government will be reinforced to complete the center with the needed speed and quality, Shewit praised Sosina Wogayehu for investing in arts development. The minister also stressed the need to reinforce the participation of investors in the arts and sport sectors. The owner of the circus center Sosina Wogayehu said for her part that the center is being built with the objective of promoting the art of circus in Ethiopia. The center is also being built with the aim to make Ethiopia a destination center for circus arts in Africa, she said, adding it includes various rooms including circus show, circus art and dance training, museum, youth hostel and restaurant.  
Ministry Says Activities Underway to Meet Standards of Stadiums Towards Hosting AFCON
Aug 24, 2024 19325
Addis Ababa, August 24/2024 (ENA) As Ethiopia has set plan to host the 37th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2029, efforts are underway to ensure that the stadiums meet CAF standards, Culture and Sport Minister Shewit Shanka said. A foundation stone was laid today to build a multi-purpose stadium in Arba Minch city, South Ethiopia regional state.   Recall that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced that Ethiopia submitted application to host AFCON and the country is carrying out preparatory activities. The minister elaborated that preparation is underway based on the initiative given by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for Ethiopia to host the 37th AFCON by 2029. Having laid the cornerstone along with federal and regional authorities, preparatory activities will be carried out to ensure that stadiums meet the standards set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Shewit noted. To this end, efforts will be made to ensure that the multi-purpose stadium to be constructed in Arba Minch City meets the required standards and complete it on schedule, according to the minister. Moreover, Shewit elaborated that the contribution of the stadium to the country's prosperity will be crucial by hosting various national, continental and international events and attracting sports tourism and stimulating business activity. The foundation stone for the construction of the multi-purpose stadium has an important role in revitalizing the development of sports in the region, she said. Shewit pledged that her ministry will provide the necessary support so that the construction of the stadium will be completed on schedule.  
Ethiopian News Agency
2023