Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission

Commission Begins Collecting Agendas from Ethiopian Diaspora in Africa

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Commission Begins Collecting Agendas from Ethiopian Diaspora in Africa

July 2, 2025

The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (ENDC) has officially launched its efforts to gather agenda items from members of the Ethiopian diaspora residing in African countries. This initiative is part of the Commission’s broader strategy to ensure inclusive national dialogue by engaging all segments of Ethiopian society, including those living abroad.

On July 1, 2025, the Commission held a virtual consultation with Ethiopians living in countries such as Egypt, South Sudan, Kenya, South Africa, and Botswana, among others. The session provided a platform for diaspora participants to directly present their ideas and concerns.

Professor Mesfin Araya, Chief Commissioner of the ENDC, briefed participants on the Commission’s current activities and outlined its future priorities. Commissioner Dr. Ambaye Ogato further elaborated on the goal of the platform, which is to gather diaspora perspectives and facilitate the formation of representative committees for the upcoming national-level conference.

Participants used the opportunity to submit their agenda proposals and offer feedback on the process of selecting diaspora representatives who would participate in the national dialogue council. Commissioners responded to questions and provided clarity on how the diaspora’s input would be incorporated into the national dialogue process.

ENDC has announced that it will continue to collect diaspora agendas through a combination of virtual platforms, email submissions, and in-person meetings in selected countries. As part of this initiative, the Commission will soon begin face-to-face consultations with diaspora members in South Africa. Similar engagements are also being planned for Ethiopian communities in Europe, North America, and Asia.

The Commission called on all members of the diaspora to collaborate, organize, and thoughtfully contribute agenda items that reflect the needs and aspirations of the Ethiopian people.