ADDIS ABABA – Sophos Africa suggested that unlocking national potential and embracing self-reliance is a catalyst for radical development and change in Ethiopia.
The organization emphasized that understanding and leveraging this potential is crucial for transforming Ethiopia into a more prosperous and progressive nation.
Sophos Africa Founder and Executive Director, Desta Heliso (PhD), told the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA) that to initiate true progress, the nation should first understand the potential it has in hand and prioritize self-reliance, which is a significant step to progress development in a short period.
Desta stressed that poverty remains a significant adversary, impacting both individuals and the nation as a whole.
He argued that Ethiopia must prioritize self-improvement and recognize its capabilities to achieve genuine progress. Creating a conducive environment in both the public and private sectors is essential for inspiring change and development in the minds of citizens, empowering them to drive lasting change from within.
“Economic growth requires investment in our own resources and efforts, allowing us to cultivate a culture of self-improvement and progress, to stand up for ourselves and reduce the need for support from other entities,” Desta explained.
“Politics alone cannot entirely change the nation; rather, mobilizing and changing the people’s mindset is the key to change and transform nations,” he added.
He highlighted the dangers of conflating ethnicity with religion and politics, noting the interwoven nature of the nation’s socio-economic and political plight with religion.
The Executive Director identified corruption, ethnocentrism, and religious extremism as detrimental habits that can dismantle a nation. To combat these issues, Sophos Africa is developing programs to promote constructive ideas and practices through long-term research.
The organization is committed to promoting freedom of religion and challenging the harmful fusion of religious and ethnic identities that lead to extremism. To mitigate these tensions, Sophos Africa is conducting workshops, seminars, and dialogues to foster understanding among diverse communities and religious groups, integrating faith-based initiatives aimed at building a better nation where cooperation reduces conflict, he noted.
Desta emphasized the need for national consensus and comprehensive peace initiatives to expand and sustain peace in homes, communities, and beyond.
He stressed the importance of taking justifiable actions within existing frameworks and encouraging open dialogue among the public, stating that fostering conversations can effectively reduce societal threats and pave the way for a more peaceful future, thereby bringing development.
Sophos Africa focuses on understanding the factors and actors behind religious ideas and practices that threaten societal stability, peace, and development.
BY MISGANAW ASNAKE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 22 APRIL 2025
