Social
Renovated Nat’l Palace in Ethiopia Vital Historical Heritage for Generations to Come: Ambassadors
Dec 31, 2024 406
  Addis Ababa December 31/2024 (ENA)—Ambassadors of various countries based in Addis Ababa expressed admiration on renovated National Palace of Ethiopia emphasizing its historical significance for future generations. The palace represents a significant aspect of historical heritage that is intricately connected to the future destiny of the nation, the ambassadors highlighted. The restored Ethiopia’s National Palace was inaugurated last Sunday in the presence of Prime Minister and other dignitaries. Ambassadors of various countries based in Addis Ababa have visited the restored Palace. The ambassadors expressed their admiration for the commitment made by the government to restore this historical facility. The French Ambassador to Ethiopia, Alexis Lamek said “I’m very proud of what we have been doing together…. It’s very moving to see a place which is actually a landmark, the center of Ethiopian history.” There was a scientific committee set up by French and Ethiopian experts who designed it, he said, noting that “when you look at the results, really, very impressive. I’ve been here many times as you can imagine. But I’m always as impressed as the first time.” Ambassador Lambek said this heritage is very important for the people, especially for the young generation to understand their history.   US Ambassador to Ethiopia, Ervin Massinga for his part congratulated Ethiopia’s Prime Minister, the Government and the people of Ethiopia for putting in the time, the effort, the patience to renovate this amazing facility to bring to life the so many artifacts and Ethiopia’s history which had been ignoring for a long time. “My government, my people, has learned the lesson. Early on in our history, we didn’t care about history very much, and we lost a lot of it. But we changed that. And now Americans, new generation, our friends from all around the world can come to the United States and see our history. The good, the bad, all of it together, just in the same way that a government makes Ethiopia is displaying historical artifacts from its past.” Algerian Ambassador to Ethiopia, Selma Malika Haddadi said there are a lot of vision in this project that translates the richness and the history of Ethiopia. The ambassador noted that this is an important project that translates a visionary of bridge building between the past, the present and the future, “I think that it is not by coincidence that Ethiopia, Addis Ababa is the capital of Africa, and the capital of the African Union and before that the Organizations of African Unity.”   She highlighted the importance of history explaining that “There is no future without past, there is no present without the past, and the future is always nourished by the history.” The ambassador further stated that the national palace renovation here in Addis Ababa, can be a flagship, exemplary project to share students with other countries.   Ambassador of Italy to Ethiopia, Agostino Palese said the project, which represents Ethiopia’s history, is carried out very well. “I think it’s very challenging renovation, but I think it’s been very well done and you know to open to the public is very interesting like Museum even for private business.”
Foreigners Captivated About Transformation of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia's Tourist Attractions
Dec 29, 2024 1872
Addis Ababa December 29/2024 (ENA)—The ongoing transformation of Addis Ababa is poised to enhance its appeal for tourism and investment, foreign visitors remarked. These visitors have observed that the changes in Addis Ababa create numerous favorable conditions for potential investment. Chintuu Jonah from Uganda, who visited Ethiopia during the Christmas festivities, shared his experiences of exploring various regions, including Jinka, Gondar, and Aksum. He remarked that Ethiopia is the most stunning destination he has ever encountered. Jhishan Ahimed from India expressed his admiration for the warm hospitality of the Ethiopian people and the richness of their culture.   He also took note of the significant infrastructure improvements underway across the nation. Addelle Avzalhan, an Indian, conveyed his appreciation for the urban development initiatives in Addis Ababa, highlighting the helpful and supportive nature of the Ethiopian populace.   Over the past six years Ethiopia has been extensively working on expanding its tourism attractions by building the necessary facilities and renovating the exiting destinations in a bid to harness the sector's potential for the country's development. Dine for Sheger, Dine for Nation, and Dine for Generation initiatives initiated by the premier are clear manifestations of the country’s commitment to fully exploit its tourism potentials, leveraging the sector as one of the accelerators of Ethiopia's inclusive economic growth ambitions.
President Taye Stresses Need for Reinforcing Support for Mekedonia Charity Association
Dec 27, 2024 759
Addis Ababa December 27/2024 (ENA)—President Taye Atske-Selassie has called on all Ethiopians to join hands for supporting the humanitarian endeavors of the Mekedonia Charity Association. Following his visit to Mekedonia Charity Association today, President Taye praised the association for its continued humanitarian activities by taking huge responsibility. Stating that he observed strength and energy during his visit to the charity association, Taye expressed his readiness to support the association which is a model for others as it shows the power of cooperation to solve problems. Emphasizing continued support from everyone to the association's charity endeavors, the president pledged to visit the association every year on this day. Founder and General Manager of Mekedonia Charity Association, Biniam Belete for his part expressed his gratitude to President Taye for visiting the charity association. Accordingly, the charity organization has called all to participate and contribute the respective responsibilities at the global fundraising program. The association is striving to provide a safe and welcoming home environment where our residents can receive shelter, clothing, food, medical care, and other basic services that they require for living, it was learned. In addition to Addis Ababa, Mekedonia has several branches located in other regions throughout Ethiopia, including Harar, Gore, Dire Dawa, Dessie, Adama, Gambella, and Adwa. Mekedonia is a locally-based, non-governmental, non-profit, and independent charity association established in January 2010 with the primary focus to provide support for the elderly and individuals with mental disabilities who lack the necessary means for survival.
Ministry of Peace, Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council Vow to Jointly Work on Peace & Dev’t Issues
Dec 25, 2024 970
Addis Ababa December 25/2024 (ENA)—The Ministry of Peace and the Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council have pledged to jointly work on national peace building and development activities in the country. Minister of Peace, Mohammed Idris and leaders of the Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council held an acquaintance event today. Speaking on the occasion, Mohammed reaffirmed the commitment of the government to reinforce all-round cooperation with the Council in peace building and development efforts in the country. ​​​​​Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council President, Sheikh Haji Ibrahim Tufa for his part, recalled that it has been two years since the Majlis’s reform in the Supreme Council began. During this period, the Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council has been carrying out various activities to strengthen Muslim unity and peace in the country, the president pointed out. Ibrahim also reiterated its cooperation with the government on the peace building and development initiative that will continue to be strengthened in the future. The President of the Supreme Council also requested the government, especially the Ministry of Peace, to provide the necessary support in the upcoming Majlis elections. Moreover, Minister of Peace, Mohammed Idris appreciated the effort being done by the President of Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council, Sheikh Haji Ibrahim Tufa to elevate the name of Ethiopia on the world stage. The Minister extended his gratitude to the Supreme Council for its work in resolving the long-standing disagreement and conflict between the Afar and Somali brotherly peoples and called on them to continue their efforts in strengthening peace and development efforts. Mohammed further stated that citizens should not suffer due to the lack of peace as long as Ethiopia is a religious country and has many cultures and experiences of resolving conflicts. The Minister called on the Supreme Council to issue a national call for peace and a prayer for peace during Friday prayers so that the current peace can be strengthened, the emerging peace challenges can be resolved and a lasting solution can be found. The Minister stated that the government has repeatedly called for peace and is committed to resolving conflicts through dialogue. He also stated that the Ministry of Peace will work in cooperation with all religious leaders and institutions and renewed the government’s determination to provide the necessary assistance to ensure that the upcoming Majlis elections are held peacefully.
Ethiopia Has sufficient Stocks, Arrangements to Provide Humanitarian Assistance to Those in Need: Commissioner Shiferaw
Dec 23, 2024 1449
Addis Ababa December 23/2024 (ENA)— ​​​​​​Ethiopia has necessary stocks and arrangements to provide humanitarian assistance to those in need, Disaster Risk Management Commissioner, Ambassador Shiferaw Teklemariam disclosed. Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission (EDRMC) Commissioner, Shiferaw also stated that those who have engaged in disrupting the government's efforts to provide humanitarian assistance with the hope of gaining an advantage, should refrain from their evil schemes. Approached by ENA, the commissioner revealed that the Ethiopian government is pursuing a sound national policy and strategy to deal with natural and man-made disasters in the country. For instance, he pointed out that concrete measures are being carried out to rehabilitate victims sustainably in addition to providing humanitarian support to ensure the country’s food security and food sovereignty. Shiferaw further explained that special attention has been paid to strengthening a system where the community can support each other to cope with natural and man-made disasters as well as to reach out those in need of support. Besides, the commissioner elaborated that concerted efforts have been undertaken to create a national capacity that would enable the country to provide sustainable access to humanitarian assistance by creating adequate stocks. He figured out that since the last Ethiopian rainy season, the country has embarked on cultivating 253,000 hectares of land and 2 million metric tons or 20 million quintals of agricultural production in the 2017/2018 harvest season. Accordingly, efforts are being made to create a reserve. According to him, 108,000 hectares of land have been cultivated so far, which covers 43 percent of the plan. As a result, Shiferaw noted that the plan is being implemented and a nationwide reserve is being created, giving priority to the federal and regional levels. Speaking on immediate humanitarian assistance, the commissioner indicated that activities are underway in all areas to identify and provide access to those in need of priority assistance based on research. He also mentioned that two studies were conducted a month ago in Bugna Woreda, North Wollo Zone of Amhara region, which assessed the situation at household level and overall vulnerability. In this respect, Commissioner Shiferaw recalled that there was no major problem at the time, but he said that gaps related to food security had been identified in some pockets of the district. Moreover, the commissioner stated that the security situation in the area has created obstacles to accessing humanitarian aid. However, he said that those who are using the issue for political gain and improper purposes don’t have any connection with humanitarian aid. He said that the government is working diligently to address the problem and it has reached an agreement with religious leaders and elders to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches only those who need it. He also urged those actors who act in the hope of gaining benefits by disrupting the government's efforts to provide humanitarian assistance to refrain from their evil deeds. The commissioner further elaborated that the government is working in coordination with various stakeholders at all levels to provide humanitarian assistance. He disclosed that the government has sufficient stocks and arrangements to provide humanitarian assistance to those in need and it has been jointly working in consultation with development partners. He said that by ensuring food sovereignty, it is necessary to strengthen the efforts that have been started to shift from food assistance to building resilience.
First Ethio-China Film, Television Festival Opens in Addis Ababa
Dec 21, 2024 945
Addis Ababa December 21/2024 (ENA)—The Ethio-China Film and Television Festival commenced this evening in Addis Ababa, aiming to enhance cooperation in the sector between China and Ethiopia. The festival, co-organized by YEGOF Entertainment, Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Chinese Embassy in Addis Ababa and Addis Ababa University, will be held for the next three days. During the opening ceremony, the State Minister of Culture and Tourism, Nefisa Almahdi emphasized the robust relationship between Ethiopia and China, highlighting their significant collaboration in areas such as economics, diplomacy, politics, and cultural values, among others. According to the state minister, the festival would help to further strengthen diplomatic relationships of the two countries. Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia, Chen Hai, emphasized that China and Ethiopia have rich historical ties, remarkable cultures, stunning natural landscapes, and a variety of ethnic customs.   At the forecast summit in Beijing last September Chinese President Xi Jinping called on China and Africa to strengthen People to People and cultural exchanges as part of the six initiatives and 10 partnership actions for modernization, he noted, adding President Xi proposed an initiative of cooperation on innovation in radio, TV, audio and visual programs. The Ethio-China film and TV festival is ground breaking for both countries as a concrete step to deliver the initiative and as a new chapter in this regard, he added. Director General for Public Diplomacy at Ethiopia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Shibru Mamo said that today's gathering highlights Ethiopia's unique contribution to the global storytelling and it is a reflection of our collective commitment to harnessing the art to foster natural understanding and solidarity in this an increasing interconnected world, he underscored.   Acting President of the Addis Ababa University, Samuel Kifle on his part said that the festival builds a unique and precious platform for the cultural exchanges and cooperation between the two countries.  
IOM Chief Hails Ethiopia for its Support to Refugees
Dec 20, 2024 2339
Addis Ababa December 20/2024 (ENA)— The Chief of Mission for the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Ethiopia, Abibatou Wane, has lauded Ethiopia for its exemplary and unwavering support extended to refugees from various countries. She highlighted Ethiopia’s remarkable efforts in providing essential services and protection, describing them as unparalleled in the region. Currently, Ethiopia hosts over 1.1 million refugees and asylum seekers from 26 countries, offering fundamental social services, including shelter, food, healthcare, and education. The country’s efforts are underpinned by policies and strategies designed to integrate refugees into local communities while promoting sustainability and resilience. Ethiopia’s commitment to assisting displaced persons is further reflected in the implementation of a ministerial directive aimed at ensuring refugees and asylum seekers have access to fundamental and community-based services. The directive emphasizes legal and institutional frameworks to enhance the livelihoods of refugees, returnees, and host communities. Collaborative development projects are also underway, focusing on creating sustainable solutions and improving living standards for all affected populations. Ethiopia has established conditions that mitigate the environmental impact of refugee settlements, ensuring harmony between the displaced and the surrounding ecosystems. IOM’s Abibatou Wane emphasized Ethiopia’s unique position as one of the foremost nations welcoming and hosting large numbers of refugees. She commended Ethiopia for is providing convenient services by accepting large number of refugees. Ethiopia’s proactive measures to combat irregular migration were also praised. The government is actively engaging with host nations to safeguard the rights and welfare of Ethiopian migrants abroad while ensuring they have access to fair and dignified employment opportunities. Other countries have also been taking practical majors following Ethiopia's steps in this regard, she stated. Additionally, the head mentioned about Ethiopia's efforts in facilitating the voluntary return and reintegration of its citizens caught in vulnerable conditions abroad. Through its collaborative partnership with IOM and other stakeholders, Ethiopia continues to demonstrate its commitment to tackling irregular migration, enhancing refugee welfare, and fostering sustainable development. Ethiopia’s exemplary approach serves as an inspiring model for countries worldwide. In her remarks, Abibatou Wane reaffirmed IOM’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Ethiopia in addressing migration challenges and achieving mutual goals of sustainable solutions for displaced persons and host communities.
UN Chief Urges All to Summon Common Humanity to Reverse Harmful Trends Affecting Migrants
Dec 19, 2024 970
Addis Ababa December 19/2024 (ENA)—United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres urged all to summon their common humanity to reverse harmful trends affecting migrants. He made the call in his statement issued to commemorate the International Migrants Day. The UN secretary general highlighted the contributions that millions of migrants make to communities, economies and countries around the world. “But today is also a day to remind ourselves of the challenges migrants can face — from prejudice and discrimination, to outright violence and abuse, to the unimaginable cruelty of human trafficking,” Guterres underlined. These challenges are made worse by the rising tide of mis and disinformation and hate speech which sows division and distorts the valuable contributions migrants are making each and every day, he noted. “As a global community, we must summon our common humanity, and work to reverse these harmful trends.” Guterres pointed out that the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, adopted six years ago, provides concrete solutions to protect migrants at every step of their journeys and continue expanding rights-based pathways for migration. And through the recently adopted Pact for the Future, the countries of the world re-committed to strengthening international partnerships and global cooperation for safe, orderly and regular migration, he noted.
Ethiopia's Former DPM Launches Foundation to End Child Stunting in Africa
Dec 16, 2024 1181
Addis Ababa December 16/2024 (ENA) — Ethiopia's Former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Demeke Mekonnen has launched the YADAM Foundation, an initiative aimed at eradicating child stunting across Africa. The foundation seeks to address malnutrition through innovative, sustainable, and community-driven solutions, marking a critical step in tackling one of the continent’s most pressing challenges. At the launch, Demeke highlighted the transformative vision behind YADAM, stating: “... YADAM Foundation, an initiative driven by a vision to contribute towards ending stunting in Africa by harnessing the best experiences.” He emphasized the integral role of nutrition in human development. “Nutrition is an essential component of human development. It is widely acknowledged that individuals with adequate nutrition tend to be healthier and more productive, enabling them to create opportunities that unfold gradually.”   The YADAM Foundation’s mission is rooted in addressing the critical first 1,000 days of life, a period crucial for cognitive and physical development. Demeke stressed the foundation’s commitment to combating undernutrition. ‘‘Child nutrition is a fundamental aspect of our development agenda. It is vital for fostering human cognitive and intellectual capacity.” The initiative combines evidence-based advocacy with actionable programs to strengthen food systems, enhance water, sanitation, and hygiene, and improve school nutrition. YADAM also focuses on empowering local communities by leveraging agricultural systems and establishing sustainable food production facilities to ensure lasting impact. A core element of the foundation’s strategy is forging partnerships with governments, NGOs, academia, and international organizations to maximize its reach and effectiveness.   This foundation is a testament to our belief that the fight against malnutrition is a shared responsibility. Together, we can empower our children, strengthen our communities, and create a future where Africa thrives, free from the chains of malnutrition, he said. The YADAM Foundation aspires to rank among Africa’s top five initiatives by 2035, contributing to the continent’s prosperity through comprehensive, holistic strategies that combat malnutrition and foster societal progress.
Ethiopian Red Cross Society’s Support for Sudanese Refugees Demonstrates Global Role: President Taye
Dec 14, 2024 1026
Addis Ababa December 14/2024 (ENA)—President Taye Atske Selassie underscored that the Ethiopian Red Cross Society has demonstrated its global role through providing humanitarian aid to Sudanese Refugees. The support of Ethiopian Red Cross Society (ERCS) for Refugees has also played a significant role in deepening the long-standing friendship between Ethiopia and Sudan as well as the people to people ties between the countries. Opening the 20th National General Assembly of Ethiopian Red Cross Society, President Taye who is also the Patron of ERCS commended the long-standing humanitarian support of the ERCS for natural and manmade disaster-affected populations across the country. The continued support of the Society for drought, conflict, landslide, and flood affected citizens has been laudable, Taye noted. Particularly, the president praised the society’s recent humanitarian support to Sudanese refugees who have fled to Ethiopia following the outbreak of conflict in the country. The humanitarian support for Sudanese refugees is not only the manifestation of ERCS’ magnificent role at the national level but it has also proven its internationality, the president further emphasized. Stating that ERCS has been playing a crucial role despite various challenges, he stressed the need for focusing on improving its services, working on rehabilitation in addition to its emergency support and increasing its members. President Taye further reaffirmed the commitment of the government to continue providing its unwavering support for the Ethiopian Red Cross Society in its endeavors to provide humanitarian support and rehabilitation activities. On his part, Ethiopian Red Cross Society President Abera Tola stated that the Ethiopian Red Cross Society has over 6 million members. During the past four years, ERCS has increased its income to 3.5 billion Birr from 750 million Birr, which has been instrumental to provide emergency response, disaster risk reduction and rehabilitation activities for millions of citizens, he revealed.
Ethiopian News Agency
2023