Ethiopia Hosts First African Defense Ministers Conference to Address Security Challenges and Promote Independence

ADDIS ABABA: Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister Temasgen Tiruneh emphasized the need for Africa to engage with the global community on its own terms during the inaugural African Defense Ministers Conference at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum. The event, which marks the first such conference organized by Ethiopia independently, focused on addressing the continent’s security challenges and promoting African-led solutions.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister Temasgen Tiruneh delivered the opening remarks, highlighting the significant security challenges that Africa faces, including intrastate conflicts and cross-border tensions. He noted that even nations previously considered stable are now encountering new threats, with extremist groups expanding their influence beyond governmental areas to regions previously deemed safe.

Temesgen stressed the importance of African unity and self-reliance in tackling these issues. “African solutions to African problems” was a key theme of his address, ad
vocating for continent-wide collaboration in intelligence sharing, military training, and peacekeeping initiatives. He criticized foreign interventions under the guise of humanitarian aid or human rights advocacy, which he claimed often complicate African efforts to achieve peace and security.

The Deputy Prime Minister also pointed out that while Africa must handle its security issues internally, it is crucial to interact with global powers strategically. “We must engage with the world on our own terms, ensuring Africa’s interests are represented and respected on the global stage,” Temesgen stated, emphasizing the balance between external support and internal strength to maintain sovereignty, dignity, and independence.

The conference is set to feature consultations on enhancing security measures, strengthening the security infrastructure, and enabling Africa to assert itself in the dynamic global landscape.