Thursday, April 23, 2026
Home Blog Page 7

Ethiopia finalizes first legal framework for geographical indications

admin
-
0
Ethiopia finalizes first legal framework for geographical indications

Ethiopia has completed its first legal framework for geographical indications (GI), a move expected to help the country turn distinctive farm products into premium brands and expand earnings from global and regional markets.

The Ethiopian Intellectual Property Authority says the framework will give legal protection to products whose quality, reputation or characteristics are tied to their place of origin. Officials say the new system could help Ethiopian producers capture more value from products such as Sidama coffee, Yirgacheffe coffee and Tigray white honey, which have long lacked strong legal protection.

Deputy Director General Endalew Mosisa said the reform is designed to ensure that products with unique qualities are recognized and protected in the market. He said Ethiopia should be able to market such goods with the same level of recognition enjoyed by products like Champagne or Scotch whisky.

Under the framework, producers outside a designated area would not be allowed to sell products using protected geographical names. Officials say that should help safeguard the reputation of authentic local producers and prevent misuse by traders or competitors.

The legal reform also comes at a strategic time, as Ethiopia continues efforts to join the World Trade Organization and deepen its participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area. According to the authority, stronger intellectual property protection is now a key requirement in those broader trade and integration processes.

Ethiopia has already signed international agreements including the Paris Convention and the Madrid Protocol, which officials describe as important steps toward aligning the country’s trade and intellectual property systems with global standards. An amendment to the establishment proclamation of the Intellectual Property Authority is also being prepared to expand its mandate.

In addition to the GI framework, Ethiopia has finalized preparations to join the Patent Cooperation Treaty, with a draft agreement already submitted to government. Officials say this would make it easier for Ethiopian inventors to seek protection in multiple countries after registering their inventions locally.

The country is also revising its trademark law to reflect current international requirements. At the continental level, Ethiopia is taking part in ongoing efforts under the AfCFTA to harmonize intellectual property rules across Africa.

The Intellectual Property Authority says registration and protection work on geographical indications will begin soon in cooperation with research institutions and universities. Officials expect the initiative to help close quality and pricing gaps in export products such as coffee, sesame, honey and spices, while improving foreign currency earnings.

Ethiopia among Africa’s strongest performers in 2025, IMF says

admin
-
0
Ethiopia among Africa’s strongest performers in 2025, IMF says

Ethiopia was among the fastest-growing economies globally in 2025, with the International Monetary Fund saying the country’s reform momentum helped support strong growth, improve external balances and attract investor confidence. The IMF, however, warned that fuel supply pressures, aid cuts and wider regional risks could still weigh on the outlook in 2026 and beyond.

In its April 2026 Regional Economic Outlook for sub-Saharan Africa, the IMF said economic activity across the region expanded at the fastest pace in more than a decade in 2025, with Ethiopia named among a group of countries whose stronger performance reflected “sound domestic policy choices.” The report also highlighted Ethiopia’s macroeconomic reforms, exchange-rate adjustments and reductions in fuel subsidies as measures that are beginning to pay off through improved external balances and a clearer path for private investment.

The Fund said Ethiopia remains one of the region’s standout reform cases, alongside countries such as Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Rwanda and Uganda, but added that the country still faces important vulnerabilities. The report noted that the war in the Middle East has tightened fuel availability in Ethiopia and other fuel-importing economies, adding pressure to electricity generation, transport and food inflation.

The IMF said Ethiopia’s recent macroeconomic reforms have helped improve the investment climate and support stronger growth. It linked the country’s progress to broader regional evidence that governance, business regulation and external-sector reforms can raise output substantially over time if macroeconomic stability is maintained.

According to the report, closing only part of the structural gap with emerging markets could significantly increase regional output, with the biggest gains likely to come from countries that start from a lower base and face wider reform gaps. Ethiopia was cited in the report’s reform tables as a country with room to deepen improvements in governance and the business environment.

Despite the growth momentum, Ethiopia is exposed to several near-term risks, particularly from fuel price volatility and supply disruptions. The IMF said such shocks can affect transport, mining and electricity generation, while also pushing up fertilizer costs and threatening agricultural output and food security.

The report also warned that aid cuts across sub-Saharan Africa are creating added strain on low-income and fragile economies, including Ethiopia. It said countries are being forced to reconsider spending, borrowing and domestic revenue measures to offset the effects of declining external support.

The IMF argued that the region, including Ethiopia, now needs to pivot more decisively toward private-sector-led growth. It said future progress depends on stronger governance, simpler regulation, better external-sector policies and reforms that improve the business climate and unlock productivity.

For Ethiopia, the report suggests the next phase of reform will be less about announcing new plans and more about implementation, consistency and resilience. It said the gains from earlier reforms are visible, but sustaining them will require continued policy discipline and deeper institutional change.

Ethiopia to roll out new royalty system for artists

admin
-
0
Ethiopia to roll out new royalty system for artists

Ethiopia’s Intellectual Property Authority says it has completed preparations to launch a new royalty payment system designed to ensure that artists, musicians, authors and other rights holders receive fair compensation from the use of their work.

The planned system will use digital tools to track creative works and calculate payments more accurately, marking what officials describe as a major step toward modernizing intellectual property administration in the country. Authorities say the move is intended to strengthen artists’ income while reducing the gaps that have long affected the music and wider creative industries.

Deputy Director General Endalew Mosisa said the authority has built a system centered on Collective Management Organizations, or CMOs, which are meant to represent creators and manage royalty collection on their behalf. He said the technical infrastructure, including the digitization of professional records and automation of distribution, has already been completed.

He added that the authority is now in the final consultation stage with users of creative works, including media outlets and entertainment venues, before the system officially goes live. Ethiopia’s copyright framework has existed for years, but implementation has remained weak. The Copyright and Neighboring Rights Protection Proclamation No. 410/2004 laid the legal foundation, yet artists have long complained that compensation has been difficult to secure in practice.

Efforts by musicians, including the late composer and guitarist Elias Melka, helped push the system toward the establishment of a collective management body in 2019. Two organizations are now legally recognized and licensed to operate under the authority, including the Copyright and Neighboring Rights Collective Management. These groups are expected to act as a bridge between creators and users of creative works, helping collect and distribute royalties more systematically.

The government is also preparing to approve a broader policy to formalize the cinema and creative industries. Officials say the policy is expected to protect artists’ rights, resolve copyright disputes and respond to changes driven by technology. State Minister for Culture and Sports Nebiyu Baye has said the proposed policy will help address long-standing challenges in the sector while allowing the government to better benefit from the economic value generated by creative industries.

Industry observers say a reliable royalty system could bring greater financial stability to veteran artists while encouraging younger talent to pursue careers in the arts. They note that Ethiopia’s creative economy, which includes film, music, fashion, digital art and cultural festivals, already supports significant employment and could generate even more opportunities for young people and women.

Most Popular Sports in Ethiopia Today

admin
-
0

When exploring the identity of a country, sport often reveals as much as history or culture. This is certainly true in Ethiopia, where physical activity is not just entertainment but part of everyday life. Many people wonder what sports are played in Ethiopia, and the answer highlights a dynamic mix of modern global games and deeply rooted traditions. From football fields in busy cities to running trails in high-altitude villages, athletic activity connects communities across the country.

At the same time, the way fans engage with sports is evolving. Alongside watching matches and following athletes, there is growing interest in statistics, performance tracking, and analysis. Online searches such as “betting in Ethiopia” reflect curiosity about results, trends, and team performance rather than just final scores. This indicates a more analytical approach among fans who want to understand the details behind the games they follow.

Football: The Heartbeat of the Nation

Football stands firmly as one of the most popular sports in Ethiopia, attracting widespread attention across all age groups. The sport has a massive domestic following, with millions of fans supporting both local clubs and international teams.

Local competitions, especially the Ethiopian Premier League, generate excitement and community pride. Historic clubs like Saint George and Ethiopian Coffee have loyal supporters, and match days often turn into vibrant social events. Beyond the stadiums, football thrives on streets and open spaces, where children play informal games that keep the sport alive at grassroots level.

Although the national team has not achieved consistent international success in recent years, its historic victory in the 1962 Africa Cup of Nations remains a proud moment. Football continues to serve as a unifying force, bringing people together regardless of background or region.

Athletics: Ethiopia’s Global Identity

While football dominates domestically, athletics defines Ethiopia’s global reputation. The country is widely recognized for its excellence in long-distance running, producing some of the greatest athletes in history.

Names like Abebe Bikila, Haile Gebrselassie, and Kenenisa Bekele have become legendary in international sport. Their achievements have not only brought medals but also global recognition and national pride. Ethiopia’s success in athletics is often attributed to its high-altitude environment, disciplined training culture, and strong mental resilience.

Running is deeply integrated into everyday life. In many regions, young athletes train in simple conditions, using natural terrain instead of advanced facilities. This approach has proven remarkably effective, allowing Ethiopia to maintain its dominance in distance events for decades. Women have also played a major role, with champions like Tirunesh Dibaba inspiring future generations.

Basketball and Emerging Urban Sports

Beyond football and athletics, basketball is steadily gaining popularity, particularly among younger generations in urban areas. The sport has a long history in Ethiopia and continues to develop through school programs and local leagues.

Global exposure has played a significant role in this growth. Many young Ethiopians follow international competitions and look up to global stars, which helps fuel interest in the game. Basketball courts in cities like Addis Ababa are becoming more active, and youth initiatives are helping to nurture new talent.

Other sports such as volleyball, cycling, and swimming are also emerging, supported by community programs and local organizations. These activities reflect changing lifestyles and increasing opportunities for participation in organized sport.

Cultural Heritage and Traditional Games

Alongside modern disciplines, traditional sports in Ethiopia remain an essential part of cultural life. These activities are often linked to festivals, ceremonies, and community gatherings, preserving heritage across generations.

One well-known example is Genna, a game played during Ethiopian Christmas that resembles hockey. Another is Shtay Amba, a traditional form of wrestling that emphasizes strength, skill, and endurance. There are also team-based games like Mora, which promote cooperation and strategy.

These traditional activities are not only forms of entertainment but also expressions of identity. They strengthen community bonds and keep cultural traditions alive, especially in rural areas where modern sports infrastructure may be limited.

A Diverse Sporting Landscape

The diversity of popular sports in Ethiopia reflects the country’s rich social and cultural fabric. Running and football may dominate headlines, but other activities continue to gain traction. Horse racing, for example, has historical significance, while martial arts and table tennis are slowly building communities of enthusiasts.

Urbanization is also influencing the sports scene. Younger generations are increasingly exposed to global trends, leading to the adoption of new activities and fitness practices. Schools and youth academies are playing a crucial role in supporting this development by providing structured training environments.

Government initiatives and community programs further contribute to this growth, using sport as a tool for education, health, and social development. As access to facilities improves, more young people are able to explore different disciplines and discover their talents.

The Social Impact of Sports

Sports in Ethiopia extend far beyond competition. They play a vital role in shaping identity, promoting unity, and creating opportunities. In a country with diverse languages and cultures, sport serves as a universal language that connects people.

Athletics, in particular, offers a pathway to international recognition. Many successful runners come from modest backgrounds, demonstrating how dedication and discipline can lead to global success. Their achievements inspire young people across the country to pursue their own goals.

Football, meanwhile, strengthens community ties. Local clubs represent cities and regions, creating a sense of belonging and pride. Matches often bring people together, fostering shared experiences and emotional connections.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Ethiopian Sports

The future of sports in Ethiopia appears promising, driven by a combination of tradition and innovation. Athletics will likely continue to dominate on the global stage, while football remains deeply embedded in everyday life. At the same time, emerging sports are gaining momentum, especially among younger generations.

Investment in infrastructure, training programs, and youth development will be essential for sustaining this growth. As opportunities expand, Ethiopia has the potential to diversify its sporting achievements and compete more broadly on the international stage.

At the same time, preserving cultural heritage will remain important. Traditional games continue to play a key role in maintaining identity and community values. The balance between modern and traditional activities is what makes Ethiopia’s sporting landscape truly unique.

Conclusion

Understanding the most popular sports in Ethiopia means looking beyond simple rankings. It requires appreciating the connection between sport, culture, and everyday life. Football captures the passion of the people, athletics represents global excellence, and traditional games preserve cultural identity.

Together, these elements create a vibrant and evolving sporting environment. As new trends emerge and young athletes continue to develop, Ethiopia’s presence in the world of sport will only grow stronger, driven by a deep-rooted love for competition and community.

1...678...4,422Page 7 of 4,422

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

ABOUT US

 

Capital is the longest-established private English newspaper in Ethiopia

Contact us: info@capitalethiopia.com

+251911637862 | +251944732300 | +251116183253
 

FOLLOW US

© Newspaper WordPress Theme by TagDiv