Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Reflects on Ethiopia’s Progress in a Four-Part Interview Series

Ethiopia and Kenya Agree to Deepen Economic Integration Through Horn of Africa Gateway Initiative

NEWS IN BRIEF

Ethiopia

President Taye Atske Selassie held talks with Armenia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Vahan Kostanyan on Tuesday (June 10) in Addis Ababa, reaffirming Ethiopia’s interest in strengthening ties with Armenia. President Taye encouraged Armenian investment in Ethiopia, while Deputy Minister Kostanyan conveyed a message from Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan and expressed Armenia’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed conducted a comprehensive four-part televised interview, offering a detailed reflection on Ethiopia’s development path over the past six years. The series addressed the country’s economic trajectory, governance reforms, diplomatic engagements, national priorities, and the government’s approach to current challenges. (See article)

On Saturday (June 7), Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed welcomed Aliko Dangote, President and CEO of Dangote Group, for in-depth talks on strategic investments targeting Ethiopia’s key development priorities. The Prime Minister expressed optimism about continued and strengthened cooperation.

Ethiopia launched the Diplomatic Guide for the Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda on Monday (June 9) to strengthen economic diplomacy. Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos and Finance Minister Ahmed Shide said the guide will help diplomats promote investment, trade, and international partnerships to support Ethiopia’s development goals.

Foreign Minister Gedion held discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Wednesday (June 11) on the sidelines of the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of the FOCAC Follow-up Actions. They discussed progress in Ethiopia-China ties and agreed to expedite cooperation and strengthen coordination in multilateral platforms.

State Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Hadera Abera recieved Swedish Ambassador to Ethiopia, Hans Henric Lundquist, on Thursday (June 12) at his office. Both sides recognized the longstanding Ethiopia-Sweden ties and emphasized enhancing bilateral and multilateral cooperation, especially in economic relations.

Later that day, Ambassador Hadera Abera met with Dammu Ravi, Secretary for Economic Relations of India’s Ministry of External Affairs. Ambassador Hadera expressed Ethiopia’s interest in expanding ties with India, particularly in trade, investment, ICT, education, and capacity building. Secretary Dammu Ravi commended Ethiopia’s economic progress and emphasized the need to encourage more Indian investment in the country.

On Wednesday (June 11), Ambassador Hadera met with Jung Kang, South Korea’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, to discuss the enduring ties between the two countries. They emphasized the need to strengthen development cooperation and boost investment in agriculture, manufacturing, ICT, mining, and tourism.

Ambassador Hadera also met with South African Ambassador to Ethiopia, Nonceba Losi, on Wednesday (June 11) in Addis Ababa. They discussed strengthening Ethiopia-South Africa relations through bilateral, regional, and multilateral cooperation, with a focus on trade, investment, tourism, and peace and security.

Ambassador Hadera met with US Ambassador to Ethiopia, Ervin Massinga, on Tuesday (June 10) at his office. They discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations, focusing on economic cooperation as well as regional and multilateral issues of mutual interest.

On Monday (June 9), Ambassador Hadera and his Armenian counterpart Vahan Kostanyan held the first Ethiopia-Armenia Joint Political Consultations. They discussed historic relations, reaffirmed their commitment to deepen bilateral ties, and explored opportunities for economic collaboration.

Ambassador Hadera emphasized the need to elevate Ethiopia’s economic diplomacy to support the Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda at a high-level conference held on Tuesday (June 10) in Addis Ababa. The conference, organized by the Institute of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, focused on strengthening links between diplomacy and the economy.

A photographic exhibition titled “Ethiopia Through the Eyes of Diplomats” opened Thursday (June 12) at the Hyatt Regency in Addis Ababa. State Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye said the exhibition is a tribute to Ethiopia from diplomats and a symbol of friendship and mutual respect. The exhibition will remain open from June 13 to 25. 

Ethiopia participated for the first time in the 2nd Ordinary Session of the African Medicines Agency (AMA) Conference of States Parties on Thursday (June 6) in Kigali, Rwanda. Ethiopia was elected as a bureau member representing Eastern Africa.

Kenya

Ethiopia and Kenya reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening economic integration during high-level bilateral engagements convened under the auspices of IGAD on the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project (HoAGDP) on Thursday (June 5). The initiative is expected to contribute to improving the livelihoods of communities along their common border. (See article)

Somalia

On Wednesday (June 11), Somali Foreign Minister Abdisalam Omer Dhaaye and his delegation participated in the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of the Follow-up Actions of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Changsha, Hunan Province, China.

Africa and the African Union

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission , Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, received the Executive Secretary of IGAD, Workneh Gebyehu, on Wednesday (June 11) for strategic consultations aimed at deepening AU–IGAD collaboration and enhancing institutional coordination with Regional Economic Communities (RECs). 

Foreign Minister Gedion held talks with AUC Chairperson Youssouf on Monday (June 9), discussing preparations for the upcoming Africa Climate Summit and the Africa-CARICOM Summit, which Ethiopia will co-host with the AU Commission.

The African Union called for faster progress on the AfCFTA, industrialization, and innovation-led growth during the 50th session of the Permanent Representatives Committee on Sunday (June 8) in Addis Ababa. AU Deputy Chairperson Ambassador Selma Malika Haddadi said the Commission is working to address key concerns of member states.

---

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Reflects on Ethiopia’s Progress in a Four-Part Interview Series

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed conducted a comprehensive four-part televised interview, offering a detailed reflection on Ethiopia’s development path over the past six years. The series addressed the country’s economic trajectory, governance reforms, diplomatic engagements, national priorities, and the government’s approach to current challenges.

Part One: Ethiopian Identity, Political Participation, Leadership, and Overcoming Challenges Shaping Ethiopia’s Future

In the first segment of the televised interview, Prime Minister Abiy outlined key reflections on Ethiopian identity, political participation, and the importance of leadership in overcoming national challenges.

The Prime Minister emphasized that being Ethiopian is a shared identity that transcends background, profession, or belief. It means prioritizing the country’s long-term wellbeing over personal interests, honoring both Ethiopia’s history and its ongoing progress, and making sacrifices to safeguard the nation for future generations.

He stressed the importance of studying history objectively, learning from both its successes and failures without applying today’s standards to the past. Dwelling on nostalgia or resentment, he noted, limits growth. Instead, understanding the historical context allows for balanced lessons that can guide better decisions today.

Reflecting on the decision to invite exiled political parties to return, the Prime Minister said the aim was to broaden democratic participation during a time of economic and institutional strain. Despite the risks, the government believed all voices should be heard, giving the Ethiopian people the freedom to choose the ideas and leadership that would shape their future.

Some political groups that initially supported the government later withdrew. The Prime Minister explained this is a natural part of political life. Certain parties misunderstood the invitation, expecting to gain power quickly or exert influence behind the scenes. Others prioritized personal gain over national interest and failed to earn public trust. The government, however, remains committed to working with partners who sincerely contribute to Ethiopia’s progress.

Prime Minister Abiy noted that national challenges often reveal hidden strengths and can lead to significant growth. While fear is understandable, he emphasized that it should inspire action rather than hesitation. Ethiopia’s recent struggles—including the pandemic and conflicts—have driven improvements in defense, cybersecurity, and resilience, with examples such as Ethiopian Airlines’ continued growth during crises.

The Prime Minister also explained why he personally follows up on key national projects. Leaders with vision, he said, must remain closely engaged to ensure timely results and lasting impact. Personal oversight helps address challenges quickly and keeps projects on course, reflecting the government’s commitment to a prosperous future.

Part Two: Growth, Reform Ownership, and Balanced Sectoral Focus

In the second part of the interview, Prime Minister Abiy elaborated on the economic growth achieved under difficult circumstances. He explained that the government followed a three-stage reform process: economic relaxation, rapid development, and consolidation.

He acknowledged that while the cost of living remains a concern, inflation has been significantly reduced and export revenues have reached record levels, particularly in coffee and gold. Public sector salaries, particularly for lower-income employees, have been adjusted upward, alongside increased investments in health and education.

The Prime Minister clarified that the Homegrown Economic Reform was initiated in response to Ethiopia’s internal challenges and not imposed externally. While lessons were drawn from international partners, the reform was fundamentally shaped by Ethiopia’s specific conditions.

Responding to claims that the reform neglects industry in favor of services, Abiy emphasized that industrial development is a core component of the government’s strategy. He cited the establishment of over 385 factories and 13 industrial parks since 2018, with over 85 percent now operational. While the services sector has grown—particularly in digital services—the government continues to invest substantially in agriculture, mining, tourism, and manufacturing.

Part Three: Diplomacy, Self-Sufficiency, Youth Leadership, and National Narratives

The third segment focused on Ethiopia’s evolving diplomatic approach, national self-sufficiency, and efforts to foster unity.

Prime Minister Abiy explained that Ethiopia has adopted an interest-based, non-aligned diplomatic strategy guided by the “4As” framework: Active, Alternative, Adaptive, and Agenda Setter. This approach emphasizes neutrality, flexibility, and proactive engagement. The country’s membership in BRICS reflects its growing international presence, and institutional reforms within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are strengthening its capacity, with an emphasis on youth leadership and mentorship.

On food security, the Prime Minister noted that Ethiopia’s strategy now includes significant investment in lowland areas such as Southern Omo, Afar, and Somali regions, which had previously been underutilized. These areas are now contributing meaningfully to national food production, supporting the goal of achieving wheat self-sufficiency without reliance on imports.

Abiy stated that Ethiopia has markedly reduced its dependence on humanitarian aid, from 27 million people in need in 2021 to 3.9 million currently, through initiatives such as year-round farming, urban agriculture, and the expansion of poultry and livestock production.

The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of promoting inclusive national narratives that foster unity. He underscored that Ethiopia’s diversity must be managed responsibly to prevent division, with media, educational institutions, and religious organizations playing a constructive role.

Youth leadership was also a key point, with the Prime Minister highlighting the inclusion of young leaders in senior government positions to ensure intergenerational collaboration and prepare the next generation for national leadership.

Part Four: Governance, Human Rights, and the Path to Lasting Peace

In the final part of the series, Prime Minister Abiy addressed governance priorities, anti-corruption efforts, conflict resolution, human rights, and electoral preparations.

He outlined the government’s three-phase anti-corruption strategy, which includes eliminating high-level institutional theft, addressing petty corruption through transparent services such as the Mesob one-stop centers, and working to transform societal attitudes towards corruption over the long term.

Discussing urban development, Abiy emphasized the importance of corridor and riverbank projects that improve living conditions, reduce congestion, and create green public spaces. These initiatives aim to enhance the quality of life and set a model for urban renewal across Ethiopia.

The Prime Minister provided his perspective on the underlying causes of conflict, identifying the pursuit of power through illegitimate means and the rejection of peaceful competition as key drivers. He reiterated the government’s commitment to peaceful conflict resolution through mechanisms such as the National Dialogue Commission and the Pretoria Peace Agreement.

On human rights, Abiy stressed that freedom of expression is protected, while criminal acts are prosecuted regardless of profession or position. Institutional torture has been abolished, and the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission has been strengthened. The focus remains on building institutions that balance individual freedoms with the rule of law.

The Prime Minister acknowledged the growth of Ethiopia’s media landscape, with over 160 media organizations operating in more than 60 languages and TV ownership growing fivefold. He noted that while media freedom has expanded, challenges remain in ensuring balanced, responsible reporting, particularly in the digital space.

Looking ahead to the next national election, Abiy affirmed the government’s commitment to supporting a peaceful, credible, and democratic process. He encouraged all political parties to engage constructively and to focus on presenting their programs to the Ethiopian people.

Across the four-part interview, Prime Minister Abiy presented a comprehensive narrative of Ethiopia’s ongoing transformation, driven by economic reform, multi-sectoral development, technological advancement, self-reliance, and a bold foreign policy. He called on all Ethiopians to remain committed to sustaining these gains and to continue working towards building a prosperous, independent, and resilient nation.

---

Ethiopia and Kenya Agree to Deepen Economic Integration Through Horn of Africa Gateway Initiative

Ethiopia and Kenya enjoy deep and enduring political and people-to-people relations spanning sixty years. The two countries not only share borders but also closely linked communities that have withstood the challenges of time. Their ties have remained strong and consistently progressive, regardless of leadership changes in their respective capitals.

Ethiopia and Kenya reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening economic integration during high-level bilateral engagements convened under the auspices of IGAD on the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project (HoAGDP) on Thursday (June 5). The initiative is expected to contribute to improving the livelihoods of communities along their common border.

Ahmed Shide, Minister of Finance, emphasized that both countries have set specific targets to accelerate joint infrastructure projects, including the construction of bridges at Suftu and Rhamu and the establishment of a One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) at Rhamu to facilitate customs procedures and trade flows. These efforts build on the outcomes of the March 2025 Ministerial Meeting in Addis Ababa.

The Minister also highlighted the importance of the Isiolo–Mandera corridor, supported by the World Bank’s Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project, as a key element in advancing regional integration and local economic development. He further pointed to plans to expand high-capacity fiber optic networks to improve digital connectivity and service delivery.

Workneh Gebeyehu, Executive Secretary of IGAD, encouraged both countries to continue infrastructure development and policy coordination to support regional economic growth. He noted that current cross-border trade between Ethiopia and Kenya stands at $284 million, which represents only a fraction of the trade potential. The planned One-Stop Border Post at Rhamu is expected to reduce cargo clearance times from 6.5 hours to 45 minutes and cut transport costs by 32 percent.

Cyrell Odede Wagunga, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Investment and Assets Management of the National Treasury of Kenya, confirmed his government’s support for the project, which is backed by $750 million in financing from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA). He described the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project as an important regional initiative that will enhance trade, connectivity, and stability. The project is scheduled for completion by June 2028.

The planned bridges and supporting infrastructure are expected to further strengthen cooperation between Ethiopia and Kenya and contribute to ongoing efforts to address poverty and underdevelopment in the region.