- Ethiopia has been creating a new dynamic for regional cooperation by extending its progress in renewable energy far beyond its borders.
- Ethiopia’s comprehensive approach and commitment to climate action are evident in its practical initiatives, including the Green Legacy Initiative and the development of renewable energy sources such as hydropower and wind energy.
The Ethiopian Ministry of Planning and Development has reported that Ethiopia has been creating a new dynamic for regional cooperation by extending its progress in renewable energy far beyond its borders, using clean and sustainable power to integrate the region.
Mensur Dessie, Environment and Climate Change Agreements and Strategic Partnership Lead Executive Officer at the Ministry, emphasised that the country is leveraging strategic partnerships and climate agreements to integrate the region with a shared, sustainable power grid.
These ambitious measures of the country not only address immediate environmental concerns but also lay the groundwork for a sustainable future, he added.
“Ethiopia is actively implementing its NDC, aimed at minimising greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing resilience to climate change impacts,” he stated, adding, “The country has adopted a Climate Resilient Green Economy Development Strategy, which extends through 2050 and focuses on achieving net zero and even negative carbon emissions in the long run.”
Mensur acknowledged that while other African nations are also formulating and submitting their strategies to the United Nations, Ethiopia’s comprehensive approach and commitment to climate action are evident in its practical initiatives, including the Green Legacy Initiative and the development of renewable energy sources such as hydropower and wind energy.
This proactive approach, he added, is inspiring other nations to follow Ethiopia’s lead and demonstrates the country’s commitment to addressing global climate challenges.
Ethiopia is set to showcase its achievements and climate response measures as a model for sustainable development at the second Africa Climate Summit, scheduled for September 8-10, 2025, in Addis Ababa.
According to Mensur, the nation’s successes can serve as a model for sustainable development that other countries in the region can emulate.
It was learnt that Ethiopia has significant renewable energy potential with hydropower estimated at 45 gigawatts, while wind and geothermal have a combined potential capacity of 15 gigawatts.