Addis Ababa:Ethiopia's continuous investments in infrastructure, energy, industry, and productive activities are a testament to the nation's dedication to economic transformation, remarked Benedicta Lasi, Executive Chair of the Africa Governance Centre.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Lasi commended Ethiopia's development initiatives while speaking at the Second African Political Parties Summit. She congratulated Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, his administration, and the Ethiopian people for their commitment to transforming the country through Medemer-led economic policies, which have been effective in driving sustainable transformation and nurturing young leadership.
Lasi highlighted the necessity for political organizations to focus on long-term development priorities such as industrialization, energy systems, and agricultural productivity, which require sustained commitment beyond electoral cycles. She emphasized the importance of preparing competent leaders, formulating sound policies, and reinforcing institutional capacity before assuming government roles.
The Executive Chair underscored that political parties must maintain development priorities across governance transitions to ensure continuity of national programs. She also called for enhanced collaboration between the African Union and political parties to further Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Lasi expressed optimism about the proposed African Political Parties Agenda 2040, which aims to set standards for internal democracy, national development visions, and leadership development, while promoting women’s and youth participation. She also highlighted the Africa Governance Centre’s African Political Parties Initiative (APPI), launched in 2025, which facilitates experience exchange and capacity strengthening among political parties.
Furthermore, Lasi mentioned the Centre’s efforts to expand international cooperation, leading to the inception of the Intercontinental Dialogue among Political Parties in Seoul, South Korea, and collaboration with African legislative institutions to bolster parliamentarians’ capacities in shaping national development policies.
