Dialogue Commission Engages Ethiopian Diaspora Across Africa in Agenda-Setting Process

Addis Ababa, August 1, 2025 (FMC) – The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (NDC) has launched virtual consultations with members of the Ethiopian diaspora residing across Africa as part of its effort to gather inclusive agendas for the upcoming national dialogue.

Participants from Egypt, South Sudan, Kenya, South Africa, Botswana, and other African countries took part in the online engagement aimed at soliciting views and proposals to inform the dialogue process.

Chief Commissioner of the NDC, Professor Mesfin Araya, addressed the gathering, providing an overview of the Commission’s progress to date and outlining future priorities.

Commissioner Dr. Ambaye Ogato explained that the consultations are designed to gather agenda items from the diaspora and to establish country-level committees that will help select representatives to participate in the forthcoming national conference.

Diaspora participants presented their suggestions and offered reflections on the criteria for selecting delegates. In response to questions raised, NDC officials confirmed that diaspora input will be gathered through virtual meetings, email submissions, and in-person consultations in selected countries.

NDC spokesperson Tibebu Tadesse told Fana Digital that the Commission recently visited South Africa to meet with Ethiopian community members and initiate direct agenda collection activities.

The Commission also announced plans to expand these in-person engagements to countries in Europe, North America, and Asia, ensuring a global diaspora voice in the national process.

Mr. Tibebu urged diaspora communities in every host country to organize themselves and submit agenda items that contribute constructively to Ethiopia’s path forward.