Addis Ababa, May 7, 2026 (FMC) – Media leaders have outlined sweeping transformations across Ethiopia’s media sector during the national consultative forum titled “Media Progress for Narrative Building,” held in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.
The forum brought together senior executives of major media institutions, who reflected on reforms undertaken under the ongoing national reform agenda, highlighting institutional restructuring, regulatory improvements, technological modernization, and expanded media reach and inclusivity.
Mr. Admasu Damtew, CEO of Fana Media Corporation (FMC), highlighted that reforms under the reformist government have transformed the institution into a competitive, professional, and relatively independent media house.
He pointed to improvements in content quality, organizational structure, and the adoption of diverse digital platforms, which have strengthened the corporation’s market position.
Mesafint Tefera, CEO of the Ethiopia Press Agency underscored that the Ethiopian print media sector underwent major restructuring under the reformist government, with particular emphasis on strengthening the Ethiopia Press Agency.
He noted that reforms focused on improving content quality and diversity, modernizing operations through technology, expanding distribution, and building an effective institutional structure.
He highlighted achievements including the launch of children’s print products, publication of newspapers in additional local languages, and expanded coverage of business and economic issues alongside social and political affairs, stating that these developments have played a significant role in shaping the nation’s collective narrative.
Haimanot Zeleke, Director-General of the Ethiopia Media Authority indicated that prior to the reforms, Ethiopia’s media sector faced regulatory, institutional, and professional challenges.
She noted that the government introduced major reforms, including the establishment of the Ethiopia Media Authority, strengthening self-regulation, and expanding media partnerships for nation-building and peace-building.
Ms. Haimanot further reported substantial sectoral growth, with media outlets increasing from 122 to 310, radio stations from 52 to 126, television channels from 25 to 128, and local language services from 39 to 60.
She also highlighted improved inclusivity through the issuance of 35 foreign and 50 community media licenses.
For his part, Biniyam Ero, CEO of the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation (EBC) highlighted that despite its historic role as Ethiopia’s pioneering modern media institution, EBC had long faced structural inefficiencies, unclear editorial direction, limited diversity and reach, and outdated technology.
He explained that the reform process addressed these bottlenecks through comprehensive institutional changes, including the expansion of regional studios, improved competitiveness in digital media, stronger international media partnerships, and greater linguistic inclusivity through additional local language services, significantly enhancing the corporation’s accessibility and reach.
Seife Derbe, CEO of the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), stated that due to comprehensive reforms by the current administration, the agency has experienced what he described as a “rebirth” comparable to its founding.
Mr. Seife noted that conceptual, legal, structural, and operational reforms have repositioned ENA as a credible and influential news source in Africa, strengthening its capacity to safeguard national interests and promote national consensus.
He added that through expanded reach and technological advancement, the agency has extended beyond Ethiopia to become a broader African voice contributing to shared narrative building.
Biruk Kebede, CEO of National Broadcasting Corporation, emphasized transformative successes achieved within the sector, particularly at NBC Ethiopia.
He noted that prioritizing fundamental shifts in mindset, legal frameworks, and operational systems has enhanced institutional competence and strengthened professional ethics.
Meanwhile, Abdu Mohammed, General Manager of Awash FM, elaborated on the contributions of the reformist government to the media sector, noting that the industry had long been constrained by regulatory and political restrictions, capacity and professional gaps, as well as financial and technological limitations.
He stated that policy and legal reforms, alongside increased investment focus, have facilitated the growth of radio stations and strengthened their role in promoting shared values, fostering social cohesion, and contributing to the nation-building process.