AMN Plus – July 27, 2026
Ethiopia has been unanimously endorsed by African member states as the continent’s candidate for the Category 2 seat on the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), marking a significant diplomatic milestone for the country.
The endorsement reflects the trust and confidence African nations have placed in Ethiopia’s growing leadership and longstanding contribution to both continental and global civil aviation.
The successful nomination was the result of coordinated efforts by the Federal Government of Ethiopia, the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ethiopia’s Permanent Mission to the African Union, Ethiopian embassies across Africa, and the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority.
Minister of Transport and Logistics, Alemu Sime (PhD), played a pivotal role by providing strong political leadership and diplomatic support throughout the campaign. He actively championed Ethiopia’s candidacy across the continent and closely supervised the nomination process.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its Directorate General for African Affairs, Ethiopia’s Permanent Mission to the African Union, and Ethiopian diplomatic missions in Kenya, Uganda, and other African countries, also worked closely with African member states to secure broad-based support for Ethiopia’s bid. In addition, Gedion Timothewos (PhD), senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ethiopian ambassadors and diplomats, as well as the leadership and staff of the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority, made significant contributions through sustained diplomatic engagement and coordinated advocacy that culminated in the historic endorsement.
Ethiopia’s nomination underscores its commitment to effectively representing Africa’s interests in the upcoming ICAO Council election. It also reinforces the country’s expanding role in promoting aviation safety, connectivity, innovation, and cooperation across the continent, according to the Ministry of Transport and Logistics.
By Birhanu Workneh
