As Ethiopia celebrated its annual Sovereignty Day on Saturday, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed delivered a powerful message, reiterating the nation’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty.
“The name Ethiopia has long been associated with honor, excellence, and freedom. Throughout its history, Ethiopia has maintained its sovereignty and never invaded another country. However, it has always defended itself against those who threatened its sovereignty. And this will continue to be upheld by the united efforts of its people,” the Prime Minister said in his address.
He added, “We will not be touched! However, we will humiliate anyone who dares to threaten us in order to dissuade them. We won’t negotiate with anyone on Ethiopia’s sovereignty and dignity.”
The celebration comes at a time of renewed focus on Ethiopia’s military strength, particularly with the commemoration of the 47th anniversary of the establishment of the Eastern Command of the Armed Forces. The event, held at Harar Imam Ahmed Stadium, saw Ethiopia’s Chief of General Staff of the Armed Forces, Field Marshal Berhanu Jula, underline the readiness of the National Defense Army to fulfill its duties in defending the country.
“The Defense Army is in a better state of readiness than ever before to fulfil its mandate and protect the country’s sovereignty,” said Field Marshal Berhanu in his speech during the anniversary event.
This message of military preparedness, paired with Prime Minister Abiy’s call for national unity, reflects Ethiopia’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities in an increasingly volatile region.
It also comes on the heels of reports that Egypt is giving Somalia military aid in what many security analysts say is a provocation to Ethiopia over Cairo’s opposition to Addis Ababa’s Grand Renaissance Dam that is close to full completion. The dam is set to become Africa’s largest.
As one of Africa’s oldest nations, Ethiopia has a storied history of resisting foreign aggression, most notably during the Battle of Adwa in 1896, when it successfully repelled Italian colonizers. This history of conquest also meant it was the only African country that was not colonised.
