ADDIS ABABA: The ongoing national dialogue in Ethiopia has been described by business community leaders as a historic opportunity to achieve lasting peace and strengthen the country’s institutions.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, the consultation process, initiated by the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission, began yesterday in the Addis Ababa city administration. Local stakeholders in the capital are discussing to identify and prepare agenda items and elect their representatives for the forthcoming national dialogue. The consultation involves elected representatives from each district, as well as representatives from non-governmental organizations, political parties, and key government bodies.

Marta Hunde and Girma Mulat, business community representatives, emphasized that the dialogue aims to lay a strong foundation for sustainable peace and the country’s continued existence. “The national dialogue has brought a unique and historic opportunity for lasting peace and building a strong state,” said Marta. Muzamil Jemal, another business community representative, echoed these sentiments, stating it is the responsibility of all Ethiopians to take advantage of the opportunity presented by the process. The Addis Ababa-level consultation will continue until June 4, 2024, with similar processes occurring across the country. Ethiopia’s national consultation has progressed from the preparatory stage to the consultation phase, with the implementation phase to follow.