Ethiopian Diaspora fuels national growth with increased investment, engagement – Director

Addis Ababa, April 3, 2025 (FMC) — The Ethiopian Diaspora Service reports a significant surge in diaspora investment and engagement, driving national development.

Ethiopian Diaspora Service Director General Ambassador Fistum Arega stated that the community’s pivotal role, fueled by government initiatives promoting inclusivity and empowerment, resulting in billions in remittances, key sector investments, and active participation in national dialogues.

Ambassador Fistum expressed the Ethiopian diaspora’s growing commitment to their homeland, noting a significant increase in investments, knowledge transfer, and social contributions.

“There’s tremendous dedication from Ethiopians and those of Ethiopian origin to engage across various sectors, particularly in investment at their homeland,” he stated.

Ambassador Fistum explained the 3 billion USD in remittances received from the diaspora in the past eight months as a key indicator of their increased engagement and noted the surge in diaspora visits during holidays like Christmas and Epiphany, which strengthens trade, investment, and collaboration.

The government’s establishment of a favorable investment climate, including enhanced digital access to platforms like the Ethiopian Securities Exchange, creates significant opportunities for contributions from the Diaspora.

Regarding diaspora contributions to e-learning, the Ambassador highlighted substantial involvement in the tech sector, e-commerce, and e-learning, including investments and joint ventures.

He also emphasized the ongoing collaboration between 17 Ethiopian universities and the Diaspora to advance e-learning initiatives

“To further solidify Diaspora ties, the Ethiopian Diaspora Service, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, have led the construction of an Ethiopian Community School in Djibouti,” he told local news agency ENA.

Acknowledging the instrumental support of the Diaspora diplomatically particularly in advocating for the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD, Ambassador Fistum urged the Diaspora to further strengthen their participation in educational project.

A fundraising campaign, aiming for 3 million USD, has already secured 500,000 USD in just weeks and beyond financial contributions, the Diaspora actively counters foreign pressures and champions Ethiopia’s interests internationally.

Ambassador Fistum also emphasized the crucial role of the Diaspora in the national dialogue process, with upcoming in-person sessions following two rounds of virtual engagement.