ADDIS ABABA – The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (ENDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to completing its activities as per the schedule.
Presenting its six-month progress report to the House of People’s Representative (HoPR) yesterday, Chief Commissioner Prof. Mesfin Araya highlighted that agenda gathering and participant identification would soon commence in Oromia State.
The commission has already finalized agenda gathering and participant identification in nine regional states and two city administrations, covering over 615 districts. It is now preparing to begin similar activities in approximately 360 districts in Oromia. While progressing with these activities, ENDC is also taking measures to continue its work in Amhara and Tigray states despite ongoing challenge.
At the federal level, the commission has outlined plans to engage key institutions, including the House of People’s Representative, political parties, and religious organizations. These entities will deliver their agendas to the commission, contributing to the dialogue’s success.
Prof. Mesfin also emphasized the commission’s efforts to engage the Ethiopian Diaspora. To date, ENDC has conducted 10 virtual meetings and a formal session in the United States. Additionally, outreach is planned for Diaspora communities in Asia, Africa, Europe, the Pacific, and Middle East. He noted that these engagements are vital for inclusivity and the success of the National Dialogue.
The commission has also collaborated with the academic community, holding brainstorming session with over 80 higher education officials from institutions such as Raya, Adigrat, Axum and Mekelle universities. These sessions are part of broader discussions involving intellectuals from 56 universities.
Once agenda gathering is completed across all states, ENDC plans to transition directly to a National Dialogue forum. This forum will involve over 4000 experts from diverse sectors. To ensure the forum’s success, the commission has also prepared training programs for facilitators and conveners.
Parliament members commended the commission’s improved media engagement and increased women’s participation compared to its previous report. Tesfaye Beljige, Chief Government Whip, emphasized the government’s commitment to the success of the National Dialogue, describing it as a golden opportunity to address Ethiopia’s political, structural and economic challenges.
Tsefaye noted that the dialogue provides a platform for fostering shared values and common goals, enabling Ethiopia to overcome divisions and leave a stronger, more unified country for future generations. However, he stressed that the success of the National Dialogue relies on the active and responsible participation of all individuals. The National Dialogue is seen as a crucial step toward addressing the nation’s challenges and ensuring a better future for coming generations.
BY BETELHEM BEDLU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 20 NOVEMBER 2024
