22/08/2026
H.E. President (Rtd) Uhuru Kenyatta today graced the closing ceremony of the Ethiopian National Dialogue Conference at the Addis International Convention Center in Addis Ababa, where he highlighted Ethiopia’s rich civilisation, diverse cultural heritage and the enduring value of indigenous systems of governance.
Reflecting on his journey across the country, the former President spoke of Ethiopia’s diverse communities and drew particular attention to the Gadaa system of the Oromo people, describing it as a remarkable heritage deserving greater international recognition.
The Ethiopian National Dialogue Conference brought together representatives from diverse sections of Ethiopian society to deliberate on issues of national importance, exchange perspectives and seek areas of common understanding and consensus. The process represents an important effort to address longstanding differences through dialogue and peaceful political engagement.
The closing ceremony was also addressed by former Nigerian President H.E. Olusegun Obasanjo, among other distinguished dignitaries, underscoring the wider African significance of inclusive dialogue, peaceful engagement and locally rooted approaches to building sustainable peace and cohesion.