National Conference Highlights Media’s Role in Safeguarding Ethiopia’s National Interest
Addis Ababa, March 12, 2026(HNH)
By Chekole Alemu
The Ethiopian Media Authority held a national conference in Addis Ababa under the theme “Media for National Interest,” bringing together government officials, media leaders, and communication experts to discuss the role of journalism in strengthening national unity and protecting the country’s strategic interests.
Opening the forum, Daniel Kibret, advisor on social affairs to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, said the media has a critical responsibility in building a shared national narrative that strengthens collective identity and protects national interests.
He noted that nation building and safeguarding national interests should stand above political divisions. According to him, reinforcing common values and developing a strong collective narrative can help strengthen social cohesion and lay the groundwork for Ethiopia’s long term prosperity.
Daniel Kibret added that the vision of building a prosperous Ethiopia is not the responsibility of government alone but a shared task that requires the participation of all citizens. He stressed that protecting national sovereignty and national interests is a duty expected from every Ethiopian.
During the conference, Haimanot Zeleke said the country’s media landscape has expanded significantly since the reform period led by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. She noted that the number of media institutions has grown by about 157 percent during the reform years, describing the development as a historic expansion of the sector.
Haimanot said the authority has taken regulatory measures against both local and international media outlets that were found to undermine Ethiopia’s national interest, including suspending their licenses.
She also announced that the Ethiopian Media Authority has established a media training center in collaboration with Addis Ababa University. The center is designed to serve as a hub of media excellence, providing specialized professional training for journalists in different areas of the profession.
According to Haimanot, media organizations continue to contribute to national development by delivering timely and accurate information to the public.
She added that actors engaged in social media also carry a responsibility to ensure the public receives reliable and verified information.
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