Addis Ababa, August 17, 2026 (FMC) — A United States defense delegation has recognized Ethiopia’s leading role in advancing peace and stability in the Horn of Africa, particularly in support of peace and security in Somalia.
A US defense team from Rhode Island has begun providing training at the Ethiopian Defense Force Peacekeeping Center under an agreement between the two countries to strengthen military cooperation.
The training focuses on the protection of human rights and adherence to international humanitarian and military law during military missions, with particular emphasis on peacekeeping operations, including explosive ordnance disposal and military movements.
Training Director at the Ethiopian Defense Force Foreign Relations and Military Cooperation Directorate, Lt. Col. Minase Hailu, said Ethiopia’s growing constructive influence in the region has strengthened its voice and standing in efforts to address security challenges in the Horn of Africa.
Countries increasingly recognize that addressing instability in the Horn of Africa requires Ethiopia’s engagement and are working with the country toward shared security and mutual benefit, he said.
Lt. Col. Minase said the training is designed not only to equip Ethiopian personnel with additional knowledge on human rights and international law during peacekeeping assignments, but also to facilitate the exchange of Ethiopia’s extensive operational experience.
Coordinator of the US training delegation Lt. Col. Zachary MacArthur said Ethiopia is playing a leading role in promoting peace and stability in the Horn of Africa, particularly in Somalia.
He said the United States is working closely with Ethiopia and that the training will help make the military engagements of both countries more effective, according to information the Ethiopian Defense Force online media team provided to Fana Digital.