June 04, 2025
Addis International Bank Unveils New Identity as “Addis Bank,”
Addis International Bank Unveils New Identity as “Addis Bank,” Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – In a significant milestone marking its evolution and ambitions for the future, Addis International Bank has officially rebranded as “Addis Bank”, unveiling a new name, logo, and corporate motto: “Trusted for Your Success.” The announcement was made during a formal launch event held in Addis Ababa this evening, attended by senior executives, stakeholders, and members of the financial community. Having served Ethiopia’s banking sector for the past 15 years under the name Addis International Bank, the institution’s rebranding represents more than a cosmetic change—it is a strategic repositioning intended to reflect the bank’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and national growth. The simplified name, “Addis Bank,” aims to enhance brand recognition, resonate more closely with local identity, and signal a more streamlined, customer-focused approach. Speaking at the launch, CEO Ato Hailu Alemu emphasized the inclusive philosophy behind the bank’s transformation. “This rebranding is not just a change of name; it is a renewed promise to our customers,” he said. “Addis Bank stands for accessible, inclusive, and technologically advanced banking that serves all segments of society—from rural entrepreneurs to urban professionals.” The CEO also highlighted that the new identity is aligned with the bank’s broader strategic goals, including enhancing digital banking capabilities, expanding its national footprint, and offering more agile and efficient financial services. With the Ethiopian banking landscape becoming increasingly competitive and technology-driven, Addis Bank’s rebranding underscores its intent to be at the forefront of financial innovation. The institution is investing in cutting-edge digital platforms, expanding its product portfolio, and strengthening customer engagement strategies to meet evolving market demands. As part of its future vision, Addis Bank is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing financial inclusion and supporting Ethiopia’s economic development. By delivering reliable, secure, and user-friendly services, the bank aims to foster greater trust and empower individuals and businesses to achieve long-term financial success. The refreshed branding—anchored by the new motto “Trusted for Your Success”—positions Addis Bank as a modern, forward-looking institution ready to meet the needs of a dynamic and diverse customer base in Ethiopia and beyond.
June 03, 2025
Store251 Launches New Website and App to Enhance the Ethiopian Shopping Experience
Store251 Launches New Website and App to Enhance the Ethiopian Shopping Experience Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – May 30, 2025 – Store251, an online shopping platform based in Addis Ababa, is excited to announce the launch of its newly developed mobile application and website, introducing a more user-friendly, and rewarding way to explore and shop Ethiopian-made products. The launch will be held on May 30th at Atlas Store251, Noah Centrum Apartments, Ground Floor. Launched in August 2014, Store251 has built a reputation as a go-to platform for locally designed fashion, accessories, home décor, and lifestyle products. It shines a spotlight on homegrown craftsmanship, connecting local artisans with a global audience. Now, Store251 is rolling out a major digital upgrade, aimed at enhancing user accessibility and experience while introducing new tools tailored for both shoppers and vendors. The platform features a modern interface, integrated payment gateways for smoother transactions, and customer reviews to build trust and transparency. To uphold their authenticity, brand owners will now have their own dedicated online storefronts, designed to reflect their unique aesthetic and storytelling. Customers can also create and share wishlists from different designers, making it easier for their friends and family to gift them for weddings, birthdays, baby showers, and other social occasions. “The new Store251 platform is more than a technical upgrade—it is a strategic step forward in creating access to local design, encouraging digital adoption, and enhancing the overall customer journey,” said Maedot, Founder of Store251. “We’re excited to deliver a space that reflects our creative identity while providing tools that empower designers and offer greater convenience for customers.” Customers will also benefit from Sheba Miles, allowing them to earn rewards as they shop. Delivery is managed directly by Store251, ensuring timely and reliable service. Store251 currently operates physical locations in Atlas, Cazanchise, and Mesqel Square. Key Features of the New Website and App: Branded online storefronts for vendors Customer review and rating system In-app promotions and early access to new collections Integrated payment gateway for secure transactions Delivery service managed by Store251 Sheba Miles rewards system Wishlist sharing feature for gifting With this launch, Store251 strengthens its role in supporting Ethiopia’s creative economy by offering a more connected and rewarding experience for both shoppers and local brands. The new app and website are now live. For more information, visit Store251.com and follow Store251 on social media for updates and special offers: Instagram TikTok
June 01, 2025
Bill Gates Awarded Ethiopia’s Highest National Honor for 25 Years of Transformative Impact
Bill Gates Awarded Ethiopia’s Highest National Honor for 25 Years of Transformative Impact Addis Ababa, June 1, 2025 — In a rare and symbolic ceremony at the National Palace, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed presented the nation’s most distinguished accolade, the Grand Order of Merit of Ethiopia, to philanthropist and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, recognizing the remarkable legacy of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s work in Ethiopia over the last quarter-century. The special state honor, reserved for individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the country, was conferred on Gates for his “unwavering commitment to Ethiopia’s health, development, and innovation sectors.” Prime Minister Abiy, speaking at the evening ceremony, described the award as a gesture of deep national gratitude, underscoring the profound influence Gates has had on the lives of millions of Ethiopians through his foundation’s long-term partnerships and development initiatives. From Silicon Valley to Rural Ethiopia The ceremony honored Gates not just as a global technology pioneer, but as a figure who has redefined global philanthropy. “From leading the digital revolution to fighting poverty and disease with humility and vision, Bill Gates’ journey is one of service and solidarity,” Prime Minister Abiy remarked. He highlighted how Gates’ philanthropic ethos has been grounded in “dignity, mutual respect, and the belief in human equality.” Since its early engagement in Ethiopia, the Gates Foundation has played a pivotal role in supporting national priorities — especially in healthcare delivery, agricultural modernization, and technological innovation. Among the foundation’s most impactful programs are its contributions to vaccine access and disease prevention, maternal and child health initiatives, and the transformation of smallholder farming systems through sustainable agricultural practices. Supporting National Development with Quiet Influence The Prime Minister praised the foundation’s distinctive approach, noting its ability to support the country not with top-down directives, but through collaborative partnerships rooted in local leadership. “This is not charity. It is a partnership that empowers,” Abiy said. “Ethiopia has benefited from a model that listens before it acts, that learns before it advises.” The Gates Foundation has been particularly instrumental in helping Ethiopia strengthen its public health infrastructure, combat infectious diseases, and improve agricultural resilience. More recently, it has partnered with the government on digital identity systems and data-driven governance to enhance public service delivery and economic inclusion. A Milestone in Ethiopia’s Global Partnerships Gates, who did not deliver a formal speech at the event, was visibly moved by the gesture, according to attendees. His foundation’s work in Ethiopia has often been cited globally as an example of effective, respectful development cooperation. The honor also comes at a time when Ethiopia is seeking to recalibrate its relationships with international donors and investors — shifting away from dependency toward mutual development partnerships. The award serves as a symbolic endorsement of development models that prioritize capacity building, local agency, and systemic transformation over short-term aid. A Quiet Legacy of Change Over the past 25 years, the Gates Foundation has invested heavily in Ethiopia’s future—not only in financial terms but through institution-building, knowledge transfer, and advocacy. Its presence in the country has been one of continuity, innovation, and deep-rooted trust. The conferral of Ethiopia’s highest honor marks the culmination of that legacy — and signals the country’s desire to continue building forward-looking partnerships. The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, representatives of international organizations, and development partners — many of whom noted that Gates’ recognition reflects a broader national shift toward celebrating sustained impact over performative aid. With Ethiopia aiming to meet its ambitious health and development goals under the Digital Ethiopia 2025 strategy and beyond, the Gates Foundation’s model of philanthropy grounded in solidarity remains a guiding influence. As Prime Minister Abiy concluded, “True partners are those who walk with us not for applause, but for purpose. Mr. Gates has walked with Ethiopia for 25 years—and we honor him not only for what he has done, but for how he has done it.”
May 31, 2025
Ethiopia’s Hasset Dereje Named First Runner-Up at Miss World 2025
Ethiopia’s Hasset Dereje Named First Runner-Up at Miss World 2025 Hasset Dereje Admassu of Ethiopia has achieved a historic milestone at the 72nd Miss World pageant, securing the position of First Runner-Up in the globally celebrated beauty and purpose competition. The event, held at the HITEX Exhibition Centre in Hyderabad, India, concluded with Thailand’s Opal Suchata Chuangsri being crowned Miss World 2025. Hasset’s second-place finish marks the highest ranking ever attained by an Ethiopian contestant in Miss World history, drawing widespread praise from across Ethiopia and the African continent. A graduate in public health and a passionate advocate for women’s health and education, Hasset represented Ethiopia with distinction both on and off the stage. Her “Beauty With a Purpose” project, which focused on maternal health and girls’ education in rural communities, impressed judges and audiences alike. During the final round, when asked to reflect on the impact of her presence in the competition, Hasset stated: “There are so many children and mothers behind me that get so many things from me just from standing here.” Her heartfelt response was met with resounding applause and ultimately secured her place among the top finalists. The top four contestants were: Miss World 2025 – Opal Suchata Chuangsri (Thailand) 1st Runner-Up – Hasset Dereje Admassu (Ethiopia) 2nd Runner-Up – Maja Klajda (Poland) 3rd Runner-Up – Aurélie Joachim (Martinique) Hasset’s placement is considered a significant breakthrough for Ethiopian and African representation in international pageantry. Her performance highlighted the importance of substance, advocacy, and cultural pride within global beauty contests. Public reactions in Ethiopia were overwhelmingly celebratory, with national leaders, media outlets, and civil society figures hailing her as a role model. Social media platforms across the country lit up with messages of congratulations and admiration, with many calling her success “a victory for all Ethiopian women.” Although the crown went to Thailand, many Ethiopians view Hasset’s achievement as a defining moment that has already made a lasting impact. She is expected to continue her advocacy work and serve as a voice for health equity and gender empowerment both locally and internationally. Contact:For further information or media inquiries regarding Hasset Dereje’s activities, please contact the Miss World Ethiopia coordination office or follow official Miss World updates at www.missworld.com. Tags: #MissWorld2025 #HassetDereje #Ethiopia #BeautyWithPurpose #WomenInLeadership
May 30, 2025
Ethiopia Secures IMF Staff-Level Agreement, Paving Way for $260 Million Disbursement
Ethiopia Secures IMF Staff-Level Agreement, Paving Way for $260 Million Disbursement Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – May 30, 2025 — The International Monetary Fund (IMF) announced on Friday that it has reached a staff-level agreement with Ethiopia on the third review of the country’s $3.4 billion loan program. The agreement, once formally approved by the IMF Executive Board, will unlock a further $260 million in funding for the Horn of Africa nation. The development marks a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s multi-year reform agenda, aimed at stabilizing its macroeconomic framework, modernizing its monetary policy, and addressing a lingering debt burden exacerbated by conflict, drought, and global economic shocks. “The [Ethiopian] authorities’ policy actions in the first year of the program have yielded strong results,” the IMF said in a statement. “The transition to a flexible exchange rate regime has proceeded with little disruption.” The Fund commended Ethiopia’s performance across key economic indicators, noting that inflation, goods exports, and international reserves have all outperformed previous forecasts. These achievements are seen as critical steps toward restoring investor confidence and rebuilding external buffers. Reform Progress and Economic Impact At the heart of Ethiopia’s program with the IMF is a sweeping reform agenda that includes moving away from a heavily managed exchange rate, improving public financial management, and deepening structural reforms to foster inclusive growth. The IMF highlighted the smooth rollout of the country’s flexible exchange rate regime, which had long been recommended by economists as a tool to correct external imbalances and enhance competitiveness. The reform is already bearing fruit, with inflation trending downward and foreign exchange shortages easing, according to government and IMF data. Additionally, the country’s export sector has shown renewed momentum, and gross international reserves have improved, suggesting enhanced resilience in the face of global uncertainties. What’s Next? The $260 million disbursement—pending Executive Board approval—will bring the total disbursed amount under the current Extended Credit Facility (ECF) and Extended Fund Facility (EFF) programs closer to $1 billion. This funding is expected to support Ethiopia’s balance of payments and fiscal needs while also reinforcing the government’s ongoing reform efforts. The IMF noted that it will continue to work closely with Ethiopian authorities to maintain reform momentum and ensure that program objectives—including debt sustainability and poverty reduction—are met. Broader Implications Ethiopia’s ability to stay on course with IMF-supported reforms could signal renewed international confidence in its economic trajectory. Analysts note that unlocking IMF tranches not only provides direct budgetary support but also catalyzes additional funding from multilateral and bilateral donors. With this third review signaling strong progress, the Ethiopian government is likely to continue leveraging international partnerships to stabilize its economy, manage debt vulnerabilities, and lay the groundwork for sustainable and inclusive development. Tags: #Ethiopia #IMF #EconomicReform #ExchangeRate #Inflation #Exports #Macroeconomics #AfricaEconomy #DevelopmentFinance #AddisAbaba #InternationalReserves #LoanDisbursement
May 30, 2025
Dodai Donates 40 E-Motorcycles in Partnership with Addis Ababa Transport Bureau
Dodai Donates 40 E-Motorcycles in Partnership with Addis Ababa Transport Bureau Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – May 29, 2025 — Dodai Manufacturing PLC, a leading local manufacturer and operator of electric mobility solutions, today announced a major partnership initiative with the Addis Ababa Transport Bureau and key affiliated city institutions. As part of its commitment to advancing e-mobility and supporting the city’s transformation agenda, Dodai is donating 40 electric motorcycles (without batteries) and proposing an exclusive pilot program for its innovative battery-swapping network. This strategic collaboration aims to enhance urban transportation, promote environmental sustainability, and create new livelihood opportunities for residents of Addis Ababa. The donated motorcycles are fully compatible with Dodai’s smart battery-swapping network. This innovative system allows riders to visit a Dodai swap station, pay a fee via smartphone, and instantly receive a fully charged battery—eliminating the need for traditional charging, minimizing downtime, and removing battery maintenance concerns. “We are incredibly proud to partner with the Addis Ababa Transport Bureau and key city institutions in this groundbreaking initiative,” said Yuma Sasaki, CEO of Dodai Manufacturing PLC. “This donation and proposed pilot program underscore our dedication to modernizing urban transport, fostering sustainability, and empowering young people through e-mobility. We believe this is a crucial step toward a more sustainable and inclusive transport system for Addis Ababa.” A formal partnership ceremony is scheduled for 4:00 PM on Thursday, May 29, at the Dodai Manufacturing Facility in Haile Garment. The event will bring together leaders from the Addis Ababa Transport Bureau, Japanese institutional investors, and members of the Addis Ababa E-Mobility Association to celebrate this important milestone. Dodai Manufacturing PLC has gained international recognition, having been featured in prominent media outlets such as BBC, CNBC, and Nikkei. The company was also recently selected by Bloomberg as one of Africa’s Top 25 Startups at the Qatar Economic Forum, showcasing Ethiopia’s innovation on the global stage. About Dodai Dodai is Ethiopia’s premier electric mobility company, dedicated to providing innovative and sustainable transportation solutions. With a focus on data-driven optimization and customer-centric services, Dodai is committed to reducing carbon emissions and revolutionizing urban mobility in Ethiopia. For further information or media inquiries, please contact:Eden TeshomePR Manager, 251 Communications📞 +251-913-244666📧 eden@251communications.com
May 29, 2025
Ethiopia’s Digital Creator Economy Gets a Boost as JAMI and Arifpay Launch Country’s First Multi-Currency Tipping Platform
Ethiopia’s Digital Creator Economy Gets a Boost as JAMI and Arifpay Launch Country’s First Multi-Currency Tipping Platform Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — May 29, 2025 Ethiopia’s fast-growing digital economy just got a major shot in the arm. JAMI, a newly launched content monetization platform founded by local tech entrepreneur Nathan Damtew, has officially partnered with leading fintech company Arifpay to debut the country’s first multi-currency digital tipping service for creators. The platform, unveiled at a packed event at Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa, promises to reshape how Ethiopian creators earn from their craft — both at home and across the diaspora. Built for the Digital Hustler At its core, JAMI is a simple yet powerful tool: a personalized microsite where creators — from streamers and educators to comedians, musicians, and meme pages — can showcase their content and receive tips directly from fans in multiple currencies. Think of it as an Ethiopian answer to Patreon or Buy Me a Coffee, but tailored for local realities and global ambitions. “We built JAMI because creators in Ethiopia didn’t really have a way to get paid directly by their fans,” said Nathan Damtew, CEO and Founder of JAMI. “Platforms like YouTube or TikTok Live are great, but they don’t really work for most Ethiopian creators. You need to go viral, meet a bunch of requirements, and even then, payouts are in dollars and hard to access. We wanted to change that. So JAMI makes it easy for creators to earn tips, share their work, and build a digital presence — and everything works in birr.” A Creator Economy Gap, Now Closing Damtew points to a significant void in Ethiopia’s digital ecosystem — one where local influencers often struggle to convert their growing audiences into revenue. And even when opportunities arise, getting paid from abroad has typically been a headache thanks to currency restrictions and a patchy digital payments landscape. “A lot of talented people in Ethiopia aren’t really ‘content creators’ in the traditional sense — they’re poets, podcasters, painters, educators, designers, you name it,” said Damtew. “They have something valuable to offer, but they’re not necessarily going viral on TikTok or YouTube. JAMI gives them a way to still earn. Through tips, link sharing, and soon even selling their products. And again, since we’ve integrated with ArifPay, everything’s local, no payout issues. We’re trying to make it so even a creator with 100 loyal fans can earn something meaningful.” JAMI integrates with ArifGateway, Arifpay’s online payment infrastructure, which supports payments from local mobile wallets, debit cards, and international channels like Visa and Mastercard. Fans abroad can tip their favorite Ethiopian creators in USD, EUR, or GBP, while payouts to creators are settled in line with Ethiopia’s financial regulations. The Early Adopters: Creators Beyond the Algorithm Since soft-launching in beta, JAMI has attracted a vibrant mix of creators. “Honestly, the response has been exciting,” Damtew said. “We’re seeing podcasters, digital artists, freelance illustrators, even musicians and educators jump in. A lot of them already had communities, they just didn’t have a way to turn that love into income. Now they’re getting tipped directly, some are closing freelance gigs from their profile pages, it’s been amazing to watch. It’s not just about money either, it’s about finally having a local tool that actually gets them.” Fintech Meets the Creative Class For Arifpay, the partnership is a strategic move as much as a social one. “Arifpay saw a strong opportunity to support Ethiopia’s growing community of young entrepreneurs and digital innovators, and also recognizes the growing influence of digital creators in Ethiopia and particularly those in the creative economy. Partnering with JAMI, a platform focused on helping creators monetize their content, aligns with Arifpay’s vision to empower the digital economy. This collaboration allows Arifpay to extend its reach into the creative sector, providing seamless payment solutions that enable content creators to earn from their work — both locally and globally,” said Girum Getachew, Partnership and Business Director at Arifpay. He added, “Arifpay currently offers online payment gateway POS, QR, SoftPOS, and international remittance solutions. By integrating our online payment gateway, ArifGateway, with JAMI’s digital platform, users can send money from within Ethiopia or from abroad using multiple payment instruments. These include local mobile wallets, debit cards, bank account options, as well as international payment options like Visa and Mastercard.” “This means that anyone from abroad who wishes to send tips can do so using our international payment options, with settlements to the content creator processed in accordance with the National Bank of Ethiopia’s (NBE) directives,” he explained. More Than a Platform, It’s a Movement While JAMI’s technology is impressive, its real ambition is cultural. The platform isn’t just offering a payment tool — it’s planting a flag for Ethiopia’s creative class. “We’re not chasing celebrity creators,” Damtew insists. “This is about the street poet in Addis, the history podcaster in Bahir Dar, the diaspora photographer in DC — anyone with a voice and a community.” What’s Next? Following the launch, creators can register at jami.bio, set up their profiles, and start receiving tips instantly. The platform plans to roll out features like subscription payments and digital merchandise sales in the coming months. “We believe this will spark a new era for Ethiopia’s digital economy,” said Damtew. Judging by the buzz at the launch and early sign-ups, it’s a bet worth watching.
May 29, 2025
Oromia Bank Joins Digital Lending Race with Launch of Miliki App
Oromia Bank Joins Digital Lending Race with Launch of Miliki App Oromia Bank has entered Ethiopia’s rapidly evolving digital lending space with the launch of Miliki, a new mobile application that offers collateral-free loans through an AI-driven credit assessment system. Developed in partnership with local fintech firm Quantum Technology, the app is part of the bank’s broader strategy to expand financial access and align with national digital transformation goals under Digital Ethiopia 2025. With Miliki, Oromia Bank joins a growing list of financial institutions and tech companies racing to offer mobile-based microcredit solutions aimed at underserved populations. The platform enables eligible users to apply for loans up to ETB 300,000 without requiring traditional asset-based guarantees. According to Oromia Bank CEO Teferi Mekonnen, the product is designed to address long-standing barriers to credit, particularly for groups often excluded from the formal financial sector, such as women, youth, and informal workers. “Miliki leverages technology to extend credit access to those who have the capacity to repay but lack conventional collateral. It’s about inclusion, efficiency, and accessibility,” Mekonnen said during the launch event. The app uses an AI-powered algorithm that evaluates borrower behavior, transaction history, and other alternative data sources to determine loan eligibility. Since its pilot and soft launch period began three months ago, over 7,000 users have successfully received loans via the platform—a figure the bank considers a strong indicator of unmet demand. A Competitive Landscape of Digital Credit Solutions Miliki’s debut comes amid increasing competition in Ethiopia’s mobile lending market, as banks and fintechs seek to capitalize on the country’s young population, expanding smartphone usage, and persistent credit gap. Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) has introduced limited-scope loans through its CBE Birr mobile wallet, mostly catering to salaried individuals with a stable transaction record. Dashen Bank, via its digital payment platform Amole (in collaboration with Moneta Technologies), offers microloans primarily to merchants, using transaction data to assess creditworthiness. Awash Bank is testing digital loan offerings for SMEs, although these products still involve more conventional screening processes and collateral for larger amounts. While the regulatory environment for digital credit in Ethiopia is still maturing, the momentum suggests a shift toward more consumer-centric and mobile-first financial products. Analysts say the success of these tools will depend not only on their technological strength but also on repayment performance, financial literacy, and ongoing regulatory support. Outlook By rolling out Miliki, Oromia Bank signals its intent to be a key player in the country’s digital financial future. As Ethiopia’s credit ecosystem diversifies, the competition to build user trust and scale responsibly will intensify. Whether Miliki can maintain early traction and expand sustainably remains to be seen, but its launch marks a clear step in the growing race to redefine access to credit in Ethiopia.
May 28, 2025
Ethiopian Airlines to Launch Daily Flights Between Moscow and Addis Ababa by December 2025
Ethiopian Airlines to Launch Daily Flights Between Moscow and Addis Ababa by December 2025 Addis Ababa, May 28, 2025 — Ethiopian Airlines has announced plans to significantly expand its air service between Moscow and Addis Ababa, with daily flights scheduled to commence in December 2025. This marks a major step in strengthening air connectivity between Ethiopia and Russia. Michael Endale Taffesse, Head of Ethiopian Airlines’ Representative Office in Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), confirmed the development in a statement to African Initiative. “At present, we are planning to increase the frequency of flights between Ethiopia and Russia,” he said. “Then, from December, we plan to make the flights daily — that is, aircraft will fly between Moscow and Addis Ababa seven days a week.” Currently, the airline operates four flights per week between the two capitals. Beginning in July, this frequency is set to increase to five flights per week, as Ethiopian Airlines gradually ramps up service to meet growing demand. The move reflects the airline’s broader strategy to expand its global footprint and strengthen Ethiopia’s role as a key aviation hub connecting Africa with Europe, Asia, and beyond. The additional flights are expected to boost trade, tourism, and diplomatic ties between Ethiopia and Russia, at a time when both countries are deepening their economic and political cooperation. Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest and most profitable carrier, has been steadily expanding its international routes, even amid global aviation challenges. The new daily service to Moscow is expected to enhance its already extensive global network, which spans over 130 international destinations. Further details regarding flight schedules, ticket availability, and aircraft types to be deployed on the route will be announced closer to the launch date.
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