ENDF Modernized Into Capable Force to Safeguard #Ethiopia’s National Interests Amid Evolving Global Security Order — Gen. Alemshet Degfe

Addis Ababa, June 26, 2026 (FMC) — The Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) have developed into a reliable and modern military institution capable of safeguarding national interests and responding effectively to emerging security threats, according to General Alemshet Degfe, Advisor to the Chief of Staff for Military Affairs and Chief of Fire Control.

General Alemshet made the remarks at the Ethiopian National Defense College’s annual consultative conference, held on Thursday under the theme “Ethiopia’s National Security Challenges and Solutions.”

He stated that Ethiopia continues to record progress across multiple development sectors, despite persistent attempts by extremist and terrorist groups to derail the country’s trajectory. According to him, such efforts have been consistently neutralized through the coordinated work of the National Defense Forces and peace-supporting communities.

The General stressed that extremist ideologies remain fundamentally incompatible with national unity and development, warning that groups driven by destructive intent must not be allowed to regain operational space within the country’s security environment. He further underlined that the protection of peace, sovereignty, and national development constitutes a shared and enduring responsibility of all Ethiopians.

Turning to global developments, General Alemshet noted that the international system is undergoing a transition from a unipolar to a multipolar order, a shift he said has introduced new and complex security dynamics. While acknowledging both opportunities and risks arising from this transition, he emphasized that Ethiopia has strengthened its defense capacity to better navigate emerging challenges and strategically leverage opportunities.

He further observed that the Horn of Africa remains a strategically sensitive region shaped by shifting alliances and external influence. In this context, he called for a carefully calibrated national security approach anchored in Ethiopia’s core interests, noting that hostile actors are attempting to reorganize and revive destabilizing agendas, though he affirmed that the ENDF remains fully prepared to respond decisively to any threat.

Addressing the conference, General Yimer Mekonnen, Head of the ENDF General Directorate of Education and Training, underscored that safeguarding national interests has become increasingly critical in the current global security environment. He noted that Ethiopia’s security is closely linked to peace and stability across the Horn of Africa, stressing the importance of coordinated regional and national efforts to preserve sovereignty and promote shared security outcomes.

The conference brought together senior government and security officials, including the Prime Minister’s Advisor on East African Affairs, Mr. Getachew Reda; National Security Advisor Dr. Kenea Yadeta; Chairperson of the House Standing Committee on Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs, Dr. Dima Nogo; and Director General for African Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Zerihun Abebe.