Ethiopia's Development Threatened: PM Abiy Ahmed Demands Action

Ethiopia, 19 January 2026 - Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has called for decisive action against social habits and practices that weaken the country’s progress, warning that issues such as ethnic hatred, discrimination, marginalisation, and a weak work ethic continue to hold Ethiopia back. Speaking at a policy forum titled “Financing Ethiopia’s Future,” the Prime Minister stressed that overcoming these challenges is a prerequisite for building a prosperous and resilient nation. He underlined the importance of shared responsibility and national unity, describing them as foundational pillars for achieving inclusive and sustainable development. Abiy Ahmed said that complacency with the current situation is incompatible with the demands of progress, noting that the country must intensify efforts, promote innovation, and accelerate delivery to keep pace with growing regional and global competition. He also warned that hesitation and inaction could erode Ethiopia’s opportunities, urging institutions and citizens alike to make effective use of available resources while safeguarding national interests through strategic planning and responsible governance. The Prime Minister further emphasised the value of teamwork and collective effort, arguing that even modest initiatives can generate meaningful change if sustained over time. According to Abiy, consistent action and the accumulation of efforts are key to driving long-term transformation. He reaffirmed that fostering a positive work culture, strengthening national cohesion, and rejecting harmful practices are critical to supporting Ethiopia’s development path and securing lasting prosperity.