Sea Access Is Every Ethiopian’s National Cause

Addis Ababa, July 29, 2026 (FMC) — Throughout history, leaders have sought to understand the voices and aspirations of their people by asking a simple but profound question: “What does the public say?” That responsibility remains relevant today as a government that believes Ethiopians deserve a better future continues to listen to the people and work to address their shared aspirations.

The Ethiopian people aspire to see their young generation free from the hardship of migration and suffering, and instead find opportunities, decent jobs and sustainable livelihoods in their own country.

They want Ethiopia to grow, reclaim its proud identity and continue serving as an example of resilience and progress to the world, as it has throughout its long history.

The people of Ethiopia have no desire to remain behind in a rapidly advancing world. They seek a modern way of life, improved access to technology and the ability to fully benefit from opportunities created by digital development and innovation.

Ethiopians do not want to pass poverty on to future generations. Like nations that have built lasting prosperity, they aspire not only to secure a better life today but also to create wealth and opportunities that will benefit generations to come.

The Ethiopian people envision a country that moves beyond food self-sufficiency to establish direct trade connections, expand exports, strengthen foreign trade and build a resilient economy capable of creating wider prosperity.

They want Ethiopia’s sovereignty to be safeguarded, its global influence strengthened, its diplomatic capacity enhanced and its ability to make independent decisions on matters concerning its own interests protected from external interference.

They aspire for a nation with a strong foundation and strengthened security capabilities.

Above all, Ethiopians seek justice for historical injustices committed against them and demand that their legitimate rights and aspirations are fully recognized.

Among these longstanding aspirations is the restoration of Ethiopia’s access to the sea — a right that the Ethiopian people believe was taken away through unjust circumstances despite historical and legal foundations supporting their claim.

The question of sea access is not merely an economic or political matter. It represents a broader historical aspiration linked to Ethiopia’s development, sovereignty and national dignity. Addressing this issue also carries significance in preserving the collective confidence and national spirit of the Ethiopian people.

As Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stated, “Being without sea access is being without a backbone.”

For decades, Ethiopia’s challenges have often been addressed through endurance and adaptation. Today, the country is pursuing solutions to its longstanding issues, and sea access has emerged as a central national question requiring lasting and meaningful resolution.

For Ethiopians, restoring sea access represents not only an answer to a historical, political and economic aspiration but also a pathway toward strengthening the country’s future and securing its rightful place in regional and global affairs.