Addis Ababa, September 9, 2026 (FMC) — The Government Communication Service (GCS) has drawn on Ethiopia’s history and recent national achievements to underscore the importance of turning the country’s diversity into collective strength, as Ethiopia marks Pagume 4, the Day of Harmony.
In a statement issued for the occasion, GCS said Ethiopia’s identity and capacity are shaped by a broad spectrum of differences, including geography, climate, livelihoods, food, clothing, language, religion and political outlook.
The government said historical efforts to portray these differences as irreconcilable divisions had sought to undermine Ethiopia’s ability to consolidate and advance its achievements.
It said the current generation has instead recognized both the destructive consequences of division and the potential of diversity as a source of strength.
According to the statement, Ethiopians are increasingly addressing differences through dialogue and seeking to build a shared national destiny.
It said this approach has also involved collectively examining problems and gaps that have contributed to conflict and created opportunities for external intervention and internal spoilers.
GCS said the reform process pursued in recent years has matured and created conditions for building Ethiopia on a stronger foundation.
It added that the National Dialogue has reinforced the understanding that the country’s diversity is not merely a demographic reality but an expression of its civilization and a source of enduring national capacity.
The government cited the Victory of Adwa, the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and the Green Legacy Initiative as examples of achievements that demonstrate the strength of collective national capacity.
It said Adwa altered the course of world history and politics, while GERD has enhanced Ethiopia’s geopolitical capacity and the Green Legacy Initiative has continued to earn international recognition.
GCS said these experiences demonstrate that Ethiopia’s diverse identities can constitute sources of strength when brought together around common national objectives.
It said Pagume 4 was designated the Day of Harmony to celebrate this understanding, emphasizing that a country characterized by many forms of diversity also possesses many forms of capacity.
The statement further said the strength of diversity is expressed through mutual support, solidarity and the willingness to provide protection and assistance to one another.
GCS described the occasion as an opportunity to communicate this message to the international community and to affirm diversity as an enduring element of Ethiopia’s identity, strength and capacity to shape a shared future.
The Government Communication Service extended its congratulations on the occasion of Pagume 4, the Day of Harmony.