Ethiopia has officially inaugurated its new agency dedicated to the diaspora.
Referred to as the Ethiopian Diaspora Agency, this new institution has been set up “to create a more conducive environment for the diaspora and to strengthen its commitment to the nation-building process,” said Selamawit Dawit, Executive Director. (photo, center).
Adding that “the entire Ethiopian diaspora will be served equally and that its rights and benefits will be protected by working in collaboration with various actors”.
Selamawit Dawit also said that the diaspora is a technological asset, with knowledge and skills that can help the country in its reform process.
To this end, the agency is currently preparing a database system to identify members of the Ethiopian diaspora and their place of residence. It will also provide quality tools and clear information on the country using enabling strategies to enhance diaspora participation in various areas such as trade and investment.
Under the supervision of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ethiopian Diaspora Agency will have regional branches and will be present in about 60 diplomatic missions around the world.
Estimated at about 3 million people worldwide, the Ethiopian diaspora is the subject of a real charm operation by the authorities of the country, because of its financial advantage for the development of the country.
According to a study by the Central Bank of Ethiopia, remittances from the Ethiopian diaspora increased from $ 4 billion in 2016, to more than $ 4.6 billion in 2017. That corresponds to about 5% of the country’s GDP .
Agence Ecofin
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