By Juddy Waka

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has called on African countries to strengthen economic cooperation and regional partnerships to improve livelihoods, create employment opportunities and promote shared prosperity across the continent.

Speaking as the chief guest during Kenya’s Mashujaa Day celebrations, Abiy said the sacrifices made by freedom fighters should inspire African nations to pursue meaningful economic and social development that benefits present and future generations.

He urged Kenya and Ethiopia to deepen their bilateral relations in key sectors, including trade, energy, infrastructure and culture, noting that stronger cooperation between the two countries could unlock new economic opportunities and improve the well-being of their citizens.

The Ethiopian leader also underscored the importance of technology and financial services in connecting people, facilitating business transactions and expanding access to economic opportunities.

“History has made us brothers, and our decisions should make us partners in shared prosperity,” Abiy said.

He challenged African leaders to translate the legacy of independence struggles into tangible development outcomes, arguing that the sacrifices made by freedom fighters should continue to inspire efforts to build stronger economies and improve the living standards of citizens.

Abiy’s remarks placed economic development, regional integration and strategic partnerships at the centre of the Mashujaa Day celebrations, an annual national event dedicated to honouring the men and women who contributed to Kenya’s struggle for independence and the country’s subsequent development.

His message also highlighted the importance of African nations working together to address common challenges, strengthen economic ties and build more resilient and prosperous societies.

The call for closer cooperation between Kenya and Ethiopia comes amid growing recognition of the importance of regional partnerships in promoting trade, investment and sustainable development across Africa.