Addis Ababa, September 6, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s Minister of Defense, Aisha Mohammed, has said that the nation’s achievements—from modernizing its security institutions to realizing the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD)—are the outcome of unity, shared purpose, resilience, and unwavering perseverance.
Ethiopia’s calendar year consists of 13 months: twelve months of 30 days each, and a 13th month, Pagumen, which has five or six days in a leap year. Pagumen is traditionally observed as a period of reflection and preparation for the year ahead.
The first day of Pagumen, commemorated today as “Resilience Day” under the theme “Firm Foundation for a Resilient Nation,” honors individuals who have made significant contributions to Ethiopia’s peace, stability, and development.
Speaking at the event held at the Adwa Victory Memorial, Minister Aisha described resilience as “the compass that guides the nation, the strength of its unity, and the flame that lights its path.” She stressed that Resilience Day is not only a celebration of past victories but also a commitment to future aspirations.
She called on citizens to remember and honor the courage, sacrifice, and perseverance of national heroes whose efforts paved the way for Ethiopia’s successes.
“Today is a day when we pledge to transform challenges into opportunities and take Ethiopia to new heights of prosperity, honor, and sustainability,” Aisha stated.
She urged Ethiopians to draw strength from the legacy of their forefathers, stand together with renewed unity and hope, and work with determination toward a future of sustainable prosperity. Ethiopia, she said, has entered a new chapter in its journey toward progress and greatness.
In conclusion, the minister called on all citizens to reinforce their shared vision so that the nation may continue to shine with resilience, perseverance, strength, honor, and enduring success.