Addis Ababa Prepares for the 2026 African Union Summit: A Transformative Journey A Welcoming Diplomatic Hub Addis Ababa, the diplomatic heart of Africa, is poised to host the upcoming African Union (AU) Summit from February 14 to 15, 2026. The city is undergoing a comprehensive urban transformation aimed at enhancing its image and capacity as a leading location for diplomatic engagements. This event will be preceded by the Ordinary Session of the Executive Council from February 11 to 12 and the Italy–Africa Summit on February 13. Urban Development Initiatives The preparations come as part of a broader initiative to elevate…
Author: Abren
Addis Ababa: A New Hub for Sports and Conference Tourism Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (February 8, 2026) – The vibrant corridor development and riverside rehabilitation projects taking shape in Addis Ababa have positioned the city as a burgeoning center for sports and conference tourism, drawing increasing attention from both local and international visitors. Transformative Urban Initiatives The ongoing urban projects have not only transformed public spaces but have also dramatically uplifted infrastructure. These enhancements have bolstered the city’s attractiveness as a site for sporting events and international conferences. Officials from the city and various tourism stakeholders highlight that these initiatives are…
The Rising Threat of Kala-Azar in Kenya: A Comprehensive Overview Understanding Kala-Azar and Its Impact Kala-azar, also known as visceral leishmaniasis, is a neglected tropical disease with devastating consequences. Spread primarily by sandflies, its symptoms include persistent fever, severe weight loss, and noticeable enlargement of the liver and spleen. Alarmingly, if left untreated, the disease boasts a grim 95% fatality rate. Surge in Cases In recent years, Kenya has witnessed a staggering increase in kala-azar cases. Reports from the health ministry indicate that the number of infected individuals jumped from 1,575 in 2024 to 3,577 in 2025. This sharp rise…
Ethiopia: A Catalyst for African Unity and Progress Introduction Ethiopia has long stood as a beacon of African unity, with Addis Ababa serving as its heart. Since its role in establishing the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in 1963, Ethiopia has continually shaped the continent’s diplomatic landscape, influencing governance, peacekeeping, and development policies. This article explores Ethiopia’s pivotal contribution to African solidarity and its ongoing impact in the current geopolitical climate. Historical Significance of Ethiopia in African Politics When African leaders convened in Addis Ababa in May 1963 to form the OAU, they chose Ethiopia intentionally. The country’s preservation of…
Rising Tensions in the Horn of Africa: Turkey, Egypt, and the Somali Sovereignty Debate Recent geopolitical shifts have placed the Horn of Africa in the spotlight, particularly following Israel’s controversial decision to recognize Somaliland. The 2026 Cairo summit saw Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan sharply criticize this move, describing it as an affront to Somali sovereignty and a strategic attempt to establish a rival stronghold at Berbera. Erdogan’s escalating rhetoric emphasizes Turkey’s commitment, alongside Egypt, to safeguarding Somalia’s territorial integrity and countering the growing influence of Israel and the United Arab Emirates in the region. Strategic Implications of Somaliland’s Recognition…
Ethiopia’s Grand Renaissance Dam: Energy Aspirations and Regional Tensions Ethiopia’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) stands as a symbol of ambition and a source of both hope and tension in the Horn of Africa. As one of Africa’s largest infrastructure projects, the dam aims to transform Ethiopia into a powerhouse of renewable energy. However, it has also sparked anxiety among neighboring countries, particularly Egypt and Sudan, leading to ongoing geopolitical complexities. Energy Potential of the GERD A Game-Changer for Ethiopian Energy The GERD has the potential to significantly boost Ethiopia’s electricity generation, which could power millions of households and industries.…
Ethiopia: A Rising Investment Hub in Africa Unlocking Investment Opportunities Addis Ababa, February 6, 2026 – Ethiopia is on the brink of realizing its vast investment potential, propelled by extensive economic reforms and its strategic positioning as Africa’s gateway. According to Ethiopian Investment Commissioner Zeleke Temesgen, the country is ready to welcome a new wave of foreign investment. Diverse Sectors for Investment Growth During the recent Ethiopia-Brazil Economic Cooperation Forum held in Addis Ababa, Zeleke highlighted promising prospects across various sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, logistics, energy, and tourism. “We believe that Brazilian investors, known for their expertise in technology, sustainable…
Ethiopia’s Geopolitical Strategy: Navigating Between the Nile and the Red Sea Ethiopia finds itself at a pivotal crossroads, uniquely positioned between the Nile and the Red Sea. President Taye Atske Selassie emphasized the interconnectedness of these two waters during the Parliamentary opening session, highlighting their crucial role in Ethiopia’s future. As the international landscape shifts, Ethiopia views the effective management of these water bodies as essential for its national security and developmental goals. The “Two Waters” Narrative: A New Geopolitical Paradigm The prevailing narrative of Ethiopia’s “two waters” showcases a transformative shift in the country’s political discourse. Historically, Ethiopia’s leadership…
Strengthening Regional Security: Ethiopia and Kenya’s Joint Defense Cooperation Addis Ababa, February 5, 2026 — The inaugural Ethio-Kenya Joint Defense Committee (JDC) meeting concluded successfully at the Defense Headquarters in Nairobi, reaffirming the commitment of both nations toward enhanced bilateral defense collaboration. Goals of the Joint Defense Committee Meeting The primary objective of the meeting was to bolster defense cooperation between Ethiopia and Kenya, with a focus on improving regional security coordination and strategic military engagements. This collaboration is pivotal for maintaining peace and stability across the region. Key Discussions and Agendas Major General Teshome Gemechu, the head of the…
Ethiopia and China Strengthen Development Partnership High-Level Meeting Boosts Bilateral Ties Addis Ababa – Ethiopia has further solidified its longstanding partnership with China during a significant bilateral meeting held on Tuesday. The meeting featured Ethiopia’s Finance Minister, Ahmed Shide, and China’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Chen Hai, who engaged in productive discussions focused on enhancing their collaborative efforts. Development Cooperation Grant Agreement Signed One of the highlights of this meeting was the signing of a development cooperation grant agreement. This agreement underscores both nations’ commitment to investing in future projects that will contribute to the sustainable development of Ethiopia. Expressions of…