Medemer State Outlines Innovative Governance and National Development Strategies – PM Abiy

Addis Ababa, August 20, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s systemic, cultural, and economic challenges have long hindered the country’s progress relative to the rest of the world, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) said in an exclusive interview with Fana Media Corporation about his new book, Medemer State.

According to the Prime Minister, weaknesses in institutional continuity, cultural attitudes, and governance systems have historically slowed Ethiopia’s development. Medemer State addresses these gaps by providing a comprehensive blueprint for institutional and governmental reform, emphasizing innovation, accountability, and strategic planning.

“The book highlights how politics should be guided by ideas and philosophy rather than personal hatred or emotions,” PM Abiy said.

He warned against a system where politics is treated as a commodity and underscored the importance of a national, inclusive narrative to safeguard Ethiopia’s interests.

The Prime Minister outlined the “three paths” of national development detailed in the book: the Medemer Expressway, which promotes multi-sectoral development and coordinated action across government agencies; the combined leapfrog path, which accelerates progress in sectors such as climate change mitigation and technology adoption; and the combined creative path, designed to foster innovation, harness human capabilities, and overcome poverty challenges.

To implement these paths effectively, PM Abiy emphasized the four points: correction, compensation, adaptation, and acceleration. These principles guide efforts to address historical limitations, narrow developmental gaps, and adapt to rapid global changes.

“By correcting past inefficiencies, compensating for lost time, adapting to new realities, and accelerating progress, we can achieve meaningful change,” he said.

Medemer State also examines previous governance approaches in Ethiopia, comparing market-oriented, command, and developmental state models to highlight lessons learned and improvements achieved under the Medemer philosophy.

The book details strategies for protecting national interests, fostering political and economic integration, and ensuring that reforms produce measurable results, he asserted.

The Prime Minister stressed that the book is designed to be both philosophical and actionable, providing guidance not only to government officials but also to citizens and institutions engaged in Ethiopia’s development journey.