Addis Ababa, July 20, 2025 (FMC) — The Ethiopian Diaspora Service is undertaking key policy amendments aimed at enhancing the diaspora’s participation in the country’s economic development, according to General-Director Fitsum Arega.
Amb. Fitsum stated that the current diaspora policy—introduced thirteen years ago—no longer aligns with the country’s evolving economic, social, and political landscape, particularly in light of recent reform measures.
Over the past seven years, Ethiopia has implemented a range of economic reforms designed to build an inclusive and resilient economy. Fitsum told local news agency ENA that a policy review, conducted in collaboration with academic institutions, identified significant gaps that need to be addressed.
He added that the launch of the Homegrown Economic Reform Program II has further underscored the importance of revising the policy framework to better support diaspora engagement.
The revised policy will also align with developments in Ethiopia’s capital market, which now allows diaspora members to invest directly in sectors of their choice, regardless of their location.
With Ethiopia among the fastest-growing economies in Africa, Fitsum encouraged Ethiopians living abroad and people of Ethiopian origin to seize the opportunity to invest and contribute to the country’s growth.
He emphasized that the Ethiopian Diaspora Service is committed to ensuring that the diaspora benefits both personally and collectively through active participation in Ethiopia’s economic diplomacy and development efforts.