116th Ethiopian Police Day closing ceremony celebrates commitment to national security and regional cooperation

Addis Ababa, May 4, 2025 (FMC) – The 116th Ethiopian Police Day closing ceremony was held today in Addis Ababa, marking over a century of service by Ethiopia’s police force and celebrating the progress made through recent security sector reforms.

The event, attended by senior government officials and invited guests, highlighted the role of Ethiopia’s police in ensuring national peace and unity, as well as fostering cooperation with neighboring countries. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, in his remarks, emphasized the importance of continuous reform and the commitment of Ethiopia’s security institutions to meet the country’s evolving needs. He stressed that the reforms undertaken in recent years have contributed significantly to the nation-building process.

“What is expected from you is to work in cooperation with our brotherly neighboring peoples to ensure the peace and unity of Ethiopia in line with our national interests,” Abiy remarked. “However, if challenges go beyond that, it must always be our duty to protect Ethiopia’s interests and uphold our proud patriotic history.”

In addition to the closing ceremony, the 116th anniversary celebrations coincided with the conclusion of the 5th Eastern Africa Police Chiefs Cooperation (EAPCCO) Sports Competition, which had been ongoing since April 27. Police athletes from Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Djibouti participated in the competition, showcasing the strength of regional cooperation among East African law enforcement agencies.

The event also featured a dinner reception hosted by the Ethiopian Federal Police at Sheraton Addis Hotel, celebrating the successful conclusion of the EAPCCO Games. Commissioner General Demelash Gebremichael expressed pride in the Ethiopian Federal Police’s 116-year legacy and reaffirmed the force’s commitment to developing a police institution that reflects Ethiopia’s ongoing transformation.

He praised the success of the EAPCCO Games, noting the importance of such events for enhancing collaboration between East African police forces. “This type of event is paramount for enhancing collaboration and fruitful cooperation,” Demelash said.

The closing ceremony and the sports competition underscored Ethiopia’s commitment to strengthening its internal security apparatus and its cooperation with neighboring countries to ensure peace and stability in the region, it has been learned.