The President of the Republic of Mozambique Pays a Historic Visit to Ethiopia
Ethiopia and South Sudan Strengthen Ties Following President Salva Kiir’s Official Visit
Foreign Minister Gedion Visits Sweden and Norway
MFA Convenes Partners’ Roundtable to Support Ongoing Institutional Reform Program
5th APRM–PSC Joint Retreat Concludes Ethiopia’s PSC Chairship
NEWS IN BRIEF
Ethiopia
The President of the Republic of Mozambique, Daniel Francisco Chapo, paid a two-day Official Visit to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia from April 27 to 28. The visit marked a significant milestone in the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two sisterly African nations. (See article)
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed attended and shared my thoughts at a consultative forum organized under the theme ‘Social Development for Nation Building,’ on Tuesday (April 28) where major achievements in the social sector over the past years were presented.
PM Abiy and First Lady Zinash Tayachew inaugurated on Sunday (April 25) the Toyo Phase 2, Origin, and Lumintech solar factories, along with the HZ Gas plant at Hawassa Industrial Park. Together, these solar facilities will generate an impressive 11.3 gigawatts of clean energy annually, while HZ Gas will produce 900 tons of oxygen, 40,000 tons of nitrogen, and 7 tons of hydrogen each year.
A high-level delegation led by Gedion Timothewos, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, conducted official visits to Sweden and Norway on April 23 and 24 respectively. (See article)
Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos, delivered high-level remarks at a ministerial roundtable held as part of the 12th Session of the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development, on Tuesday (April 28) in Addis Ababa. The Minister outlined Ethiopia’s vision for the 32nd United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP32).
Minister Gedion held discussions with the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Mozambique, Ambassador Maria Manuela dos Santos Lucas on Monday (April 27) where the two sides held discussion on matters of mutual interest.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in partnership with UNDP convened Partners’ Roundtable to support ongoing institutional programs on Thursday (April 30). (See article)
State Minister Ambassador Hadera Abera participated in the Tana High-Level Security Forum Board Meeting held in Accra on Wednesday (April 29). During the meeting, the Board reached important decisions aimed at advancing the growth of the Tana Forum.
Ambassador Hadera held talks on Thursday (April 30) with the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Ozonnia Ojielo, at his office. The two sides underscored the importance of continued collaboration between Ethiopia and the United Nations and exchanged views on mutual priorities and areas of cooperation.
The Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Nebiat Getachew, delivered a press briefing on Thursday (April 30) to domestic and international media on current regional, and global issues.
The second edition of an artistic photo exhibition titled “Africa Through the Eyes of Diplomats” opened at the Hyatt Regency Hotel on Wednesday (April 29), bringing together diplomats, cultural figures and invited guests. Organized under the theme of creativity, dialogue and connection, the exhibition highlights Africa’s rich diversity through the lenses of members of the diplomatic community.
South Sudan
The President of the Republic of South Sudan, Salva KiirMayardit, conducted a two-days Official Visit to Ethiopia from April 24 to 25. This visit signifies a renewed high-level engagement between the two nations, aimed at strengthening political, economic, and strategic cooperation. Ultimately, the mission has laid a robust foundation for solidifying a long-term partnership between Ethiopia and South Sudan. (See article)
Africa and the African Union
The 5th Joint Retreat between the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) and the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union was held from April 29–30 at Kuriftu Africa Village Resort in Shagar City, Ethiopia. The joint retreat convened under the theme “Governance, Early Warning, and Preventive Diplomacy: Strengthening Institutional Synergies for a Peaceful Africa,” which marked the last agenda item of Ethiopia’s Chair-ship of the PSC for the month of April 2026. (See article)
Under Ethiopia’s chairship, the African Union Peace and Security Council met on Tuesday (April 28) to assess the future of Peace Support Operations, focusing on adapting them to evolving security challenges, strengthening African ownership and financing, prioritizing preventive diplomacy and early warning systems, and ensuring peace missions better support political solutions, with decisions aimed at guiding the continent’s peace efforts in the years ahead.
President of the Republic of Mozambique Pays a Historic Visit to Ethiopia
The President of the Republic of Mozambique, Daniel Francisco Chapo, paid a two-day Official Visit to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia from April 27 to 28. The visit marked a significant milestone in the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two sisterly African nations.
During the visit, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held discussions with President Chapo on bilateral, regional, continental, and international matters of mutual interest. The two leaders also presided over the signing of landmark Memoranda of Understandings and legal instruments aimed at further deepening cooperation between the two countries. The two leaders exchanged views on key African and global developments of common concern and reaffirmed their commitment to close collaboration within continental and multilateral frameworks, particularly in advancing African peace, integration, and sustainable development.
Following the official talks, the two leaders witnessed the signing of six Memoranda of Understanding in the fields of Defence Training and Military Cooperation, Tourism, Health, Urban Development and Housing, Civil Aviation Technical Cooperation, as well as Digital Transformation and Innovation.
The Mozambican delegation also held productive sectoral engagements with relevant Ethiopian institutions, during which concrete areas of collaboration were identified. These consultations are expected to open new avenues for practical cooperation in priority sectors. Both sides noted that while current economic relations remain modest, substantial untapped potential exists for stronger trade and investment ties. In this regard, the two countries welcomed growing opportunities for cooperation in energy, agriculture, construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure development.
Against this backdrop, President Chapo took part in a Business Breakfast meeting with Ethiopian government institutions, leading investors, and private sector representatives. The meeting served as an important platform to explore business opportunities, enhance commercial exchanges, promote industrial partnerships, and deepen investment cooperation.
During the meeting, the two sides underscored the importance of promoting stronger business-to-business linkages, strengthening trade and investment missions, enhancing cooperation between chambers of commerces, and facilitating stronger private sector participation in bilateral relations.
The Mozambican delegation engaged in substantive bilateral consultations with their Ethiopian counterparts to explore practical avenues for expanding and strengthening the enduring partnership between Ethiopia and Mozambique. The visit ushered in a new chapter in relations between the two friendly nations.
Overall, the visit of President Chapo was highly successful and productive. The agreements concluded, the broad consultations held with sectoral institutions, and the strong political will demonstrated by both sides are expected to significantly deepen cooperation between Ethiopia and Mozambique. The visit stands as a clear reflection of the enduring solidarity between the two nations and their shared determination to advance peace, prosperity, and unity for their peoples. Together, Ethiopia and Mozambique continue to transform shared African potential into tangible progress and mutual benefit.
President Chapo visited different Institutions and Developmental projects. Moreover, the President paid tribute to Ethiopia’s historic victory and honouring the heroes and heroines of the Battle of Adwa through the laying of a wreath of flower at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum.
Ethiopia and South Sudan Strengthen Ties Following President Salva Kiir’s Official Visit
The President of the Republic of South Sudan, Salva KiirMayardit, conducted a two-days Official Visit to Ethiopia from April 24 to 25. This visit signifies a renewed high-level engagement between the two nations, aimed at strengthening political, economic, and strategic cooperation. Ultimately, the mission has laid a robust foundation for solidifying a long-term partnership between Ethiopia and South Sudan.
Over the decades, the bilateral relations between Ethiopia and South Sudan have been cemented by blood, history, culture, geography, and a shared destiny of prosperity. This visit represents another significant milestone in the relationship between the two nations. The government and people of Ethiopia have always stood shoulder to shoulder with their South Sudanese brothers and sisters in their mutual interest for sustainable peace and security.
Driven by a shared vision, the fraternal engagement between Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and President Salva KiirMayardit resulted in a highly productive meeting. Building upon their previous discussions held on the sidelines of the 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly, the leaders underscored that peace and stability in South Sudan remain indispensable to the overall security of the region.
During the visit, primary focus was placed on bilateral economic cooperation, with both leaders identifying strategic pathways to boost investment and expand opportunities through enhanced partnerships. They exchanged updates on the respective national progress and emphasized the vital importance of strengthening security and economic ties. Specifically, they recognized the significant untapped potential in infrastructure development aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and fostering closer people-to-people relations.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed reaffirmed Ethiopia’s steadfast dedication to a vision of South Sudan defined by sustainable peace, security, prosperity, and the enduring well-being of its citizens. Furthermore, the Government of Ethiopia expressed commitment to supporting human resource development and institutional capacity-building programs in South Sudan.
During the visit, the South Sudan delegation also held productive engagements with their Ethiopian counterparts, identifying concrete pillars for strategic cooperation. This visit represents a significant milestone in the enduring partnership between Ethiopia and South Sudan, signaling a shared commitment to exploring new avenues of collaboration in sectors of mutual interest.
On the margins of the visit, the Ethiopian Government handed over a plot of land for the construction of South Sudan’s Chancery. During the pivotal handover ceremony, State Minister Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye emphasized the importance of laying a firm foundation for resilient diplomacy and shared regional prosperity. The State Minister stressed that moving forward, Ethiopia remains dedicated to building bridges of friendship, expanding the scope of our bilateral cooperation, and delivering tangible results for the benefit of the peoples of the two countries.
Foreign Minister Gedion Visits Sweden and Norway
A high-level delegation led by Gedion Timothewos, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, conducted official visits to Sweden and Norway on April 23 and 24 respectively.
In Sweden, discussions with Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard focused on advancing cooperation in peace and security, trade and investment, and broader development priorities. The exchange also covered regional and international issues, including developments in the Horn of Africa, respect for territorial integrity, the situation in Ukraine, and developments in the Middle East.
The visit to Norway on Friday (April 24) included talks with Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on strengthening bilateral relations across a range of areas, including green energy, industrial development, and opportunities for expanded commercial engagement. Discussions also addressed regional and global developments, including the Horn of Africa, the Strait of Hormuz, the situation in Ukraine, and ongoing discussions on UN reform.
Throughout the visits, Ethiopia reaffirmed the importance it places on its longstanding partnerships with Sweden and Norway, underscoring the value of continued cooperation built on shared interests and mutual respect.
Ethiopia maintains a long-standing and deeply rooted relationship with the Scandinavian countries, reflecting a partnership that has endured over time and through changing circumstances.
Development cooperation between Ethiopia and the Scandinavian nations remains one of the most consistent partnerships in Ethiopia’s diplomatic history, evolving from early missionary and relief efforts into broad, multi-sectoral engagement.
Sweden’s cooperation is currently guided by its development strategy for Ethiopia covering 2022–2026, with an allocation of approximately 1.7 billion SEK (around $155 million) over five years. Sweden continues to support efforts aimed at strengthening democratic institutions, civil society, and independent media.
Norway considers Ethiopia a priority partner within its global development policy. Cooperation is particularly strong in environmental protection and education. Norway also plays a central role in supporting Ethiopia’s REDD+ framework (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation). In early 2026, both countries reaffirmed their partnership through 2030, with a focus on increasing forest cover and advancing emission reduction targets.
MFA Convenes Partners’ Roundtable to Support Ongoing Institutional Reform Program
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in partnership with UNDP convened Partners’ Roundtable to support ongoing institutional programs on Thursday (April 30).
The Ministry reform program aims at strengthening institutional human resource capacity, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness, and establishing a modern human resource management system aligned with the evolving demands of contemporary diplomacy.
In his keynote speech, State Minister Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye stated that the reform program is designed to strengthen the Ministry’s capacity to effectively implement Ethiopia’s new foreign policy, respond to evolving international dynamics, support ongoing domestic reforms, and deliver a modern, efficient, and professional diplomatic service.
United Nations Development Programme Resident Representative in Ethiopia, Samuel Doe highlighted the importance of strengthening diplomatic capacity and institutional reform. He described Ethiopia as a diplomatic hub and a stabilizing force in the region and reiterated UNDP’s continued commitment to supporting the ministry’s efforts of fostering a capable and skilled workforce in a bid to elevate Ethiopia’s voice in global diplomatic platforms.
In his closing remarks, State Minister Ambassador Hadera Abera affirmed that the Ministry remains fully committed to implementing the reform with clarity, transparency, accountability, and measurable results. He emphasized that the reforms are necessary transformations to ensure the Ministry remains relevant, responsive, and capable of advancing national interests in a rapidly evolving global environment while contributing to global well-being.
An overview of the institutional reform and its next steps was presented comprehensively by Zerubabel Getachew, Director General of Situation Monitoring at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and HaileSelassie Gebreselassie, CEO of the Africa-Europe Partnership Institute for Capacity Building and Human Resource Development, outlining the vision and direction of the reform.
The roundtable provided a platform for information sharing, partnership building, and coordinated support for the intended reform agenda. On the occasion, development partners pledged support to the ongoing institutional reform initiatives.
5th APRM–PSC Joint Retreat Concludes Ethiopia’s PSC Chairship
The 5th Joint Retreat between the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) and the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union was held from April 29–30 at Kuriftu Africa Village Resort in Shagar City, Ethiopia. The joint retreat convened under the theme “Governance, Early Warning, and Preventive Diplomacy: Strengthening Institutional Synergies for a Peaceful Africa,” which marked the last agenda item of Ethiopia’s Chair-ship of the PSC for the month of April 2026.
The Retreat was held within the broader framework of strengthening collaboration between the APRM and the PSC, as mandated by AU policy organs, particularly in integrating governance analysis into the work of the Council in the areas of conflict prevention, early warning, and preventive diplomacy.
The opening ceremony featured remarks by senior officials, including Bereket Fisehatsion Tesfamariam, State Minister from the Ministry of Planning and Development, welcomed participants and reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to supporting both the PSC and APRM in fulfilling their mandates.
Amos Lugoloobi, Minister of State for Finance, Planning and Economic Development of the Republic of Uganda and Chairperson of the APRM Focal Points Committee, also delivered a statement in Uganda’s capacity as Chair of the APRM, highlighting the importance of sustained commitment to the APRM process and its role in advancing governance and preventive diplomacy across the continent.
As co-chairs, Ambassador Hirut Zemene, Permanent Representative of Ethiopia to the AU and Chairperson of the PSC for April 2026, and Professor Olive Mugenda, Chairperson of the APRM Panel of Eminent Persons, emphasized the importance of aligning governance assessments with continental peace and security priorities. Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, and Ambassador Marie-Antoinette Rose-Quatre, CEO of the APRM Continental Secretariat, also delivered statements.
A High-Level Panel discussion set the tone for the Retreat, bringing together distinguished speakers including Hailemariam Desalegn, former Prime Minister of Ethiopia; Moeketsi Majoro, former Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Lesotho; Parfait Onanga-Anyanga, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Brian Kagoro, Managing Director for Programmes Open Society Foundation.
The discussion emphasized the centrality of governance in conflict prevention, the importance of political will, the need to effectively implement AU frameworks, strengthen early warning systems, and enhance the role of preventive diplomacy in addressing emerging challenges across the continent. Discussions over the two days reviewed progress since the inaugural retreat in 2021, examined governance vulnerabilities and early warning triggers, and assessed the impact of APRM review reports on national reforms across Member States.
Delegations highlighted the need to strengthen implementation, enhance follow-up mechanisms, and improve coordination among AU institutions, RECs/RMs, and Member States, particularly in bridging the gap between early warning and early action.
They further underscored the importance of strengthening the interface between the APRM and the PSC, including through enhanced information sharing, regular engagement, and the more systematic integration of governance analysis into the work of the Council.
The Retreat also considered forward-looking initiatives, including the development of a Joint Collaborative Framework between the AU Commission, APRM, and RECs/RMs, as well as the APRM Early Warning Framework. A dedicated panel on conflict prevention and mediation further underscored the importance of strengthening synergies among APSA and AGA platform members.
The Retreat concluded with the consideration of draft conclusions and a Joint Roadmap aimed at enhancing cooperation among the various AU mechanisms and advancing a more proactive and coordinated approach to peace and security on the continent. It also adopted the Burayu Declaration, which outlines the future framework of cooperation between the APRM and the PSC.
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